Public Library InterLINK: Strengthening Communities Through Collaboration

Public Library InterLINK is a federation of 18 public library systems across British Columbia’s Mainland/Southwest region. Built on the foundation of collaboration, InterLINK’s goal is to help libraries pool resources, reduce costs, and expand access for patrons—connecting more people to more books, services, and resources.

“We have 18 members, both large and small, from the Metro Vancouver region, Sea to Sky corridor, and the Sunshine Coast,” writes Leigh Anne of InterLINK.

• Borrowing Across Libraries – Patrons can borrow materials from any InterLINK member library, greatly expanding patron access to books, media, and other resources.
• Return Anywhere – Items can be returned to any member library, making it easy and convenient to use libraries across the InterLINK region.
• Interlibrary Loans – If a specific item isn’t available at a home library, patrons can request it from another, supporting everyone to access to the information and content they need and want.
• Professional Development and Collaboration – InterLINK supports member libraries by facilitating staff training, networking opportunities, and shared programming, strengthening the overall library network.

A major collaborative initiative that InterLINK manages is NewToBC and the Library Champions Project. This initiative helps newcomers in British Columbia access the information and services they need to settle and thrive. It does this using three different approaches:

1. Regularly Updated Online Resources
   NewToBC maintains a comprehensive, user-friendly website with information on settlement services, public libraries, multilingual collections, English language learning materials, community demographics, and more.
2. Active Social Media Engagement
   NewToBC uses social media to share news, events, and opportunities – from language classes and job fairs to local festivals. Thousands follow NewToBC on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay informed and get involved. In fact, the NewToBC Facebook page has more than 78,000 followers!
3. The Library Champions Project (LCP)
   The LCP is a training and outreach program that equips participants with knowledge of library and settlement services and resources, communication and presentation skills, and outreach skills. Since 2013, over 2,600 Library Champions have helped more than 127,000 newcomers connect with vital resources. Social media posts of Library Champions have made an incredible 2.7 million impressions!

“InterLINK manages the Library Champions Project and NewToBC with significant contributions from partnering public libraries across Metro Vancouver and the province,” explains Leigh Anne. “First and foremost, InterLINK works with various organizations to procure funding for this critical program. We also provide the deep relationships and connections with local public libraries necessary to secure participation and ensure success.”

At the heart of the Library Champions Project is a simple but powerful idea: when we help newcomers succeed, our communities grow stronger.

“The Library Champions Project helps newcomers settle into their new home, yes, but these newcomers help libraries as well,” Leigh Anne shares. “Through the Library Champions Project, public libraries better understand the needs of newcomers and forge stronger connections with individuals, families, and communities they may not have reached otherwise.”

“The Library Champions Project is more than just a program—it’s a lifeline for many newcomers. By supporting this initiative, we’re investing in the success of individuals and the strength of our communities. Libraries are at the heart of inclusion, and this project exemplifies that beautifully.”

If you are a newcomer looking to get involved, a library interested in joining, or an organization looking to support a meaningful cause, the LCP is a powerful way to make a difference. Through collaboration, we create stronger communities where everyone can learn, connect, and thrive.