On January 12, 2026, participants celebrated the completion of the Fall 2025 cycle of the Library Champions Project in Richmond. This project, part of the NewToBC initiative and delivered with the support of Richmond Public Library, supports newcomers in discovering library and community resources and sharing that knowledge with their communities. For many participants, it becomes far more than a volunteer opportunity; it is a chance to connect, grow, and feel at home in a new country.
First Connections and Lifelong Friendships
For some participants in the Richmond cycle, the Library Champions Project was their first meaningful connection in Canada.
“This group was the first I met when I arrived here. You are my only friends here. It was very, very good for me. I learned a lot and enjoyed a lot, especially today.”
Through weekly sessions, participants built friendships, shared experiences, and learned from people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
“I’m happy I met everyone here. We learned from each other, from different backgrounds and countries. We had a fun time through the activities. This experience will help us.”
Discovering the Library as a Community Resource
Many Library Champions in the Richmond cycle were surprised by the range of resources available at their local library, both online and in person.
“I began to know I can make full use of library resources online and in person. It is very surprising. People said, ‘I never realized it, I never knew about it.’ They said they will make full use of the library resources.”
Participants also shared how libraries played a vital role for their families, providing support during challenging times.
“The library helped my family get through a tough time when we first came to Canada… It’s like a connection between my son and me.”
Building Confidence and Skills
Many participants in the Richmond cycle described how the Library Champions Project strengthened their confidence, public speaking abilities, and sense of belonging.
“I’m not comfortable speaking in public, I’ve always been shy, but I learned a lot from you. My friends said they didn’t know about these resources before. So I think this is a great program for me and for my family.”
For others, volunteering opened doors to new career skills, patience, and professional development.
“I learned a lot of job skills and career development. I helped some people learn how to use resources and become more confident. I learned patience and how to work with different populations.”
A Bridge to the Community
A recurring theme expressed by Library Champions in the Richmond cycle was the power of outreach.
“I wanted to be a bridge between the library and newcomers or people who don’t speak English. Speaking to people in their own language made a big difference. I felt useful and accomplished.”
“Before I joined this program, I didn’t know how to connect with the community. My challenge was how to approach people naturally. I learned that sharing library resources is a bridge… Step by step, I felt confident.”
Renewed Hope and Belief in Self
Some participants joined the Library Champions Project at a time of personal challenge or self-doubt. For them, the experience became transformative.
“I faced a lot of rejections before coming to Canada. This volunteer program was the first time I received a ‘yes.’ It made me believe I have value… This program pushed me to think positively. I faced many rejections, but I learned it’s not always my fault. I now feel my self-worth again.”
Lifelong Impact
Through the Library Champions Project, participants gained knowledge, skills, and friendships — and discovered that libraries are more than just buildings with books. They are gateways to information, community, and belonging.
“I now see the library differently, not just as a place for books. This experience will stay with me.”
The Richmond Library Champions exemplify how newcomer programs foster connection, growth, and confidence. Their journey shows the power of libraries to help individuals and families thrive in a new community.
If you’re new to British Columbia, your local library could be your first step toward learning, community, and belonging – just as it was for the Richmond Library Champions.
Join the Library Champions Project in Richmond!
The next Richmond cycle of the Library Champions Project will take place in Spring 2026. To learn more and to register for the information session for the cycle, please visit the Library Champions Project registration page on the NewToBC website or scan the QR code on the poster below.
