At a glance:
The Regina Public Library (RPL) in Saskatchewan is a busy organization that served over 1.4 million visitors last year. It also has a long history with literacy programming. Their Literacy Unit, created almost 40 years ago, offered literacy services and one-on-one programming before any other library in Canada. Today, the Literacy Unit is made up of 3 full-time adult educators and an ever-growing roster of community volunteers.
Programs of note:
In 2002, the RPL created their "Learning Together" program to support new mothers who were also new to Canada. "It's essential that the library provide services to help ensure newcomers to our city feel welcomed, safe, and confident in our community," says Jeff Barber, Library Director and CEO. Newcomers who were also stay-at-home new mothers, however, were a difficult group to reach. They didn't have the English skills to approach library staff with a question, or the transportation to reach them.
How to deliver programming to this isolated group? "We rely largely on word of mouth," explained Jeff. "When one learner comes into the library to ask about help with the new culture and language, our staff ask: 'Do you know anyone at home who could use help like this?'"
The program, which runs from September to June, has one class a week: mothers attend class together while their kids attend a preschool program that follows the same theme. "Learning Together" provides free transportation for participants, and uses a learner-centred approach to teach literacy skills while also familiarizing participants with Canada's social, educational, legal, and health systems.
They found the cultural component was as important as the language learning. The RPL brought in guest speakers from the Regina City Police Service and Fire Department to provide expert information while also making participants comfortable with services, programs, and asking for help. The RPL's longstanding community relationships went a long way to making these partnerships possible. "Everyone was happy to help," said Jeff.
"We know we're making a difference when we see program participants out and about in the community. They're arranging playdates for their kids, outings to socialize with other families. And they know that the library is a place they can go for support."
Current focus:
The RPL's one-on-one English tutoring program for newcomers has a significant wait list that they only expect to grow over the course of this year. To best support these learners, RPL is recruiting 200 new volunteers to become English as an Additional Language (EAL) tutors. "We've had a great response from our community," says Jeff. "150 people have already answered the call, and we've started training volunteers and matching them to learners. There's a huge drive in Regina to give back and welcome new people to our city."
Coming up next:
Besides the Family Literacy Day celebrations happening at each of their branches on January 24th, the RPL is also looking forward to the completion of the Mâmawêyatitân Centre in North Central Regina. The Centre will include a high school, library branch, community centre, and health programs, as well as a resource centre for families. It's expected to open in 2017.
Want to learn more? Check out their website, Twitter or Facebook page.
