share experiences, and support one another. This generous support has been crucial in enabling our work and fostering a sense of belonging among our members.” Another library service organised local visits, including to a University Botanic Garden and to a major exhibition in the area, for new arrivals staying in a hotel. “There was a mood of normalcy and fun, and the group were very engaged, asking many questions during the guided tour. They told us they enjoyed seeing books in Persian, learning new things, and having a new experience, and they expressed a desire for more activities and cultural opportunities. Our conversations on the day and the feedback collected indicate that activities like this are important con- tributors to wellbeing.”
The library’s role
Where does this fit in the library’s role? “Right in the centre” is my answer! When I started working in public libraries (as a Saturday Assistant) in 1962, libraries were very different, yet most of the activities we are talking about went on, possibly seen as “extensions” rather than core service, but storytelling to children, library clubs, talks and events, outreach to local schools all took place.
I would argue that the role that staff in a Library of Sanctuary (and any modern
Networks banner made by the Network of International Women to celebrate library of sanctuary award and to create a welcome to all coming into the library.
public library) play is a continuation of this, obviously taking on board the tech- nological and other developments there have been. For some long time, libraries have developed their knowledge of the local community and what provision there is so they can signpost people to other ser- vices. In addition, working with the public
has always involved listening – often to heart-breaking sad stories – and also learning how best to deal with these. It does not need to involve expenditure, but is much more about re-thinking the library’s approach and making sure that every single member of staff is on board with that. Libraries of Sanctuary are using their increased knowledge of and involvement with the community as ways of showing the difference they can make and also gaining recognition from elected members and senior officers that the library service can deliver many key council priorities. The power of connections between Libraries of Sanctuary and their com- munities cannot be overstated, but what would strengthen the ‘integration’ conver- sation even more would be if every local authority also became part of the Sanctu- ary movement … that would really move things forward. IP Reference
1. Tiffy Allen is the City of Sanctuary National Coordinator for Ireland. She worked as Network Coordinator for the UK for seven years.
Libraries and Sanctuary: Supporting Refugees and New Arrivals by John Vincent is available from Facet Publishing and CILIP Members get a 35 per cent discount – visit www.
facetpublishing.co.uk/libraries-and-sanctuary.
April-May 2026
INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL 23
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