Program connecting new immigrants with the library expanding to the Okanagan

A volunteer program that connects new immigrants to the library and the community is coming to the Okanagan.

The Library Champions Program, which originated in the Lower Mainland, is expanding through the province and will be offered locally through a collaboration with the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) in the upcoming fall.

The Library Champions Program (LCP) is a three-month program that sees immigrant volunteers reach out to other newcomers and connect them with the libraries and immigrant and community service agencies.

Volunteers will learn on how to build and improve their communication, presentation and outreach skills at four LCP training sessions prior to being tasked with assisting newcomers. They will also learn about the local resources available and how to connect with the services offered in the area.

The ORL will hold an information session for people interested in becoming a Library Champion. People can register for the seminar here.

Since its launch 10 years ago, the LCP has trained 1,800 individuals who in turn have reached out and assisted over 100,000 people in the Lower Mainland.

The project is open to permanent residents of Canada who wish to give back to the community and assist newcomers while also developing their communication and networking skills.

The LCP is part of the NewToBC initiative, which is intended to connect newcomers with information they require when they settle in B.C. The project is funded by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada and managed by Public Library InterLINK.