Celebrations held for Libraries of Sanctuary award success across North Yorkshire

The far-reaching network of libraries across North Yorkshire has received a prestigious award for providing a safe space for sanctuary seekers and refugees.

Made up of 42 branches, including several across the Yorkshire coast and Harrogate areas, and one mobile facility spread across England’s largest county, North Yorkshire’s library service has been awarded the Libraries of Sanctuary status.

It is awarded by the City of Sanctuary UK charity, which supports communities to make their schools, theatres and libraries safe places for people who are seeking refuge.

Cllr Myers said: “We are delighted to receive the award which is testament to the dedicated staff and volunteers going the extra mile for the most vulnerable in our communities.

Made up of 42 branches and one mobile facility spread across England’s largest county, North Yorkshire’s library service has been awarded the Libraries of Sanctuary status.

“Libraries offer a safe and welcoming space for all and are actively reaching out to sanctuary seekers to raise awareness of our services and resources.

“Our staff have been trained to understand issues faced to signpost for support, and we are encouraging attendance to a range of inclusive activities. We are determined to improve the offer going forward to ensure we are providing the best service that we can.”

North Yorkshire has been praised for making library services easily accessible for sanctuary seekers, which involves outreach staff visiting temporary accommodation.

They have organised library visits to showcase the stock, services and inclusive activities on offer.

The service has removed the need for users to show proof of identification, and made an exemption for fines, hire charges and reservation fees.

It now offers free IT subscriptions, allowing sanctuary seekers to stay in touch with loved ones and access vital support. It also runs inclusive events and activities such as conversation clubs, dual language story times and craft clubs.

The service has introduced resources including books, e-newspapers and e-magazines in first languages, with dual language picture and story books for younger readers. The library app is also available in multiple languages.

Staff and volunteers have benefitted from training from the Refugee Council in how to welcome and meet the requirements of sanctuary seekers and further sessions are planned.

The county’s libraries rely on more than 1,000 volunteers and 31 sites are managed by local communities.

To support people to gain a foothold in their new communities, the service provides a range of volunteering opportunities.

Yuliya Pavlenko, who moved to North Yorkshire following the Ukrainian invasion, is now a volunteer at Filey Library and has donated a book.