The Nelson Public Library (NPL), in the Kootenay region of BC, is running their first cycle of the Library Champions Project with NewToBC. Erin, the Teen Services Coordinator and Community Literacy Liaison at NPL, shares her experience of this project in her community. “I work at the Nelson Public Library as the Teen Services Coordinator and Community Literacy Liaison. I am responsible for managing the Young Adult collection and planning programming for teenagers, as well as collaborating with CBAL (Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy) to offer resources and programs for newcomers to our area. We are a small team at NPL, and we all take turns helping patrons at the Public Service Desk.” Erin says she knows that the work she is doing, is welcoming newcomers to Nelson through the library champions project.
A Day in the Life at NPL
At NPL, Erin’s days are a mix of managing the Young Adult collection, planning programs for teens, and working alongside the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) to support newcomers. The Library Champions Project offers a new way to support both libraries and settlement support services – Library Champions are trained to learn about library and settlement programs and services in order to reach other newcomers.
Nelson’s Changing Landscape
“As our community becomes more diverse, we strive to respond to changing and emerging needs. For example, there was a lack of programming available for newcomers who don’t have access to childcare. Together with CBAL, NPL started a drop-in English conversation programme. We invite participants to bring along their kids, and we provide snacks, crafts, and toys. In the New Year I will be offering one-on-one book-a-librarian services for newcomers who want inter-library loan books in languages other than English.”
The Library Champions Project
This year marks the first cycle of the Library Champions Project in the Kootenays, and it’s already making a difference. “The Library Champions Project is running in the Kootenays for the first time. There are three participants from three different communities in the region. I met with the group over Zoom to discuss general library services, and to introduce them to the Nelson Public Library in particular.”
One of the highlights of this project? “Simply put – welcoming newcomers to Nelson through the library champions project! Together with CBAL, twice monthly I run a drop-in English language conversation program called Cookies and Conversation. After the Zoom meeting, I was very happy to meet one of the Library Champions when they came to the program!”
Surprises and Seasonal Changes
For many newcomers, life in the Kootenays is full of surprises. One standout feature? – four distinct seasons. “In Nelson we enjoy four very distinct seasons. This past weekend we had our first snowfall of the year! Many newcomers have never experienced winter. This week in our conversation programme we will be discussing how to dress for the weather.”
Community Support in Nelson
Nelson is rich in resources for newcomers, thanks to organizations like CBAL and NPL.
“CBAL provides free settlement services to help newcomers find resources and build connections, such as help with completing forms and applications, connections to social and cultural groups, and English language training.
At NPL we have a small collection of ESL resources and offer some programming especially for newcomers. We have a small collection of books in languages other than English, and can bring other books in from different libraries through inter-library loan. We provide internet access and printing services, sell transit passes, and offer a welcoming space to meet people and connect with the community, as well as staff to help find information and resources.”
Why I Love Nelson
Nelson is a place that blends the charm of small-town living with a culturally rich community. “I just saw something on social media that reminded me of Nelson: “I want to live in a small town, but it also has to have a bookstore, a fancy coffee shop, at least three good restaurants, and an indie movie theater all within walking distance.” This is Nelson in a nutshell.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to welcome newcomers, libraries can continue serving as gateways to community connection, learning, and belonging. Whether it’s through the Library Champions Project, language programs, or just a friendly chat at the Public Service Desk, NPL is helping newcomers be part of Nelson’s growth
If you’re new to the area or looking to get involved, the library is here for you—offering not just resources, but a community to call home.