The Library Champions Project (LCP) is a volunteer initiative aimed at helping newcomers to BC integrate into their communities by promoting public library and settlement services. Participants, known as Library Champions, receive training to enhance their communication and presentation skills, enabling them to effectively share information about library resources with other newcomers. The Library Champions Project expanded to smaller communities across British Columbia for several key reasons. Iryna, from Ukraine, shares how these reasons have impacted her decision to become a Library Champion and accordingly, how the library champions project transforms communities:
Increasing Immigration to Smaller Communities
Recent trends show more newcomers settling in smaller towns and rural areas rather than just major urban centers like those across Metro Vancouver. This shift created a need to provide support and resources to these regions, consequently where settlement services might be less established.
“My name is Iryna. I am a Ukrainian. I came to Canada because of the war in Ukraine. Now I live in Rossland, BC. This is a small city in the West Kootenay region. This is an amazing place. Surrounded by incredible nature, I find peace.”
Recognizing the Value of Libraries
Public libraries in smaller communities play a vital role in providing free access to resources, information, and social connections. Expanding the project ensures that newcomers in these areas can benefit from the same library services as those in larger cities.
“Unfortunately, my English is not perfect. Looking for ways to improve my English, I discovered the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL). I attended many free classes through CBAL and also learned about the Library Champion Project. My endless desire to improve my English inspired me to join this project and to help other people discover the library!”
Building Local Community Connections
Smaller communities often have close-knit populations, and integrating newcomers into these social circles is crucial for fostering inclusion and mutual understanding. The project helps newcomers connect with locals and develop a sense of belonging.
“The Library Champions Project has given me a lot. It’s an opportunity to meet people from all over the world, improve my English, understand different accents, make friends, learn about different problems that newcomers can face and ways to solve them. It’s also a way to share your immigration experience, which might help someone else change their life for the better. During the project I got a new job! I am now working at a bank in Rossland, and I couldn’t be happier!”
Supporting Under-Resourced Libraries
Libraries in smaller communities may have fewer staff or outreach programs compared to urban libraries. By training local Library Champions, the program empowers libraries to extend their reach and impact within the community.
“My main responsibility as a Library Champion was to share the information I learned during the classes. It is very important for newcomers to any country, to get support. I, as a volunteer who already speaks English more confidently and can communicate with people, can provide such support. People really appreciate it. I have seen firsthand how the library champions project transforms communities.”
Responding to Demand from Libraries
Many libraries outside Metro Vancouver expressed interest in hosting the program, recognizing its potential to support their outreach efforts and strengthen ties with the newcomer population.
“I am sure that the library plays a very important role in the life of our community. For me, it is one of the opportunities to learn English. Books, other materials, internet access, printing and scanning services… libraries in British Columbia do their best to support immigrants.”
Promoting Equity Across BC
Expanding the Library Champions Project to smaller communities has helped address disparities in access to settlement resources and library services, ensuring that newcomers across the province have equal opportunities to thrive.
“What really surprised me was that with just a BC library card, you can access many courses through the LinkedIn platform.”
Encouraging Newcomer Retention in Rural Areas
By fostering strong community ties and improving access to resources, the project has supported newcomer retention in smaller communities, which is crucial for their long-term economic and cultural vibrancy.
“My work as a library champion may not have made a big difference to anyone, but my journey as a newcomer was a good example for many people. My life motto is: “Nothing is impossible!”
“The Library Champions Project is a great way to show that you are not just a newcomer in a foreign country. But you are a valuable person who will be very useful for the new community.”