Return to flip book view

Library ofSanctuaryApplicationWicklow County Council Library Service

Embracing Diversity: WicklowLibrary Services CommitmentOur Library of Sanctuary Team (listed on slide 32) wish to apply for Library ofSanctuary Status on behalf of Wicklow County Council Library ServiceWe are delighted to use this opportunity to demonstrate the work we havedone and continue to do, to support and welcome new communities to all ofour libraries across the county of Wicklow. In our library service, inclusivity and democracy are fundamental principles.Our ongoing goal is to cultivate an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance,ensuring that every individual feels embraced and valued within our librarywalls.

A library is a place that is a repository ofinformation and gives every citizen equal accessto it. That includes health information. And mentalhealth information. It’s a community space. It’s aplace of safety, a haven from the world. ~ Neil Gaiman

Wicklow County Council Library Service stands as acornerstone of the community, fostering anenvironment of inclusivity, learning, and culturalenrichment A bit about usFurthermore, the service extends beyond traditionallibrary offerings, embracing modern needs withonline resources like eBooks, eMagazines, and acurated collection for the LGBTQIA community. It alsoincludes the innovative FAST collection (FunAccessible Sensory Toys), highlighting itscommitment to inclusivity and diverse learningexperiences.

Bray was the largest town, with a population of 33,512 Aughrim has a population of 1437Dunlavin has a population of 1074Blessington has a population of 5611Wicklow StatisticsPopulation of County Wicklow 155, 485of Wicklow’s population:79,287 were female76,564 were male

Currently we have 959 Adults and 314 children acrossWicklow (from countries other than Ukraine) who areseeking asylumWe have met people from:Ukraine, Syria, Georgia, Sudan, Somalia, Egypt, Zimbabwe,Bangladesh, Palestine/Jordan, Algeria, Afghanistan, Uganda,Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Kuwait and many othercountriesTop countries arriving in Ireland looking for IP:Nigeria, Jordan, Bangladesh, Palestine, Somalia, Syria, Zimbabwe,Pakistan, Afghanistan and Georgia.International Protection Applicants in County WicklowWicklow is home to 1,552 Ukrainian refugees.(Figures from the Department of Justice at the end of last year)

Public libraries could be consideredthe ultimate sanctuary space: publiclibraries are free to all people, at alltimes. Anyone, of any race, color,creed, or immigration status, canenter a public library and use theirresources, spaces, and services forfree.Libraries as Sanctuary SpacesEssay by SLIS Asst. Professor Laura Saunders

Our ValuesAccessibility and Inclusivity:Ensuring that library services are accessible toall, including those with visual impairments orliteracy challenges. This is evident in ourprovision of free internet access and tools like C-Pens to assist with reading and ACORN smarttablets to help bridge the digital divide.Cultural Enrichment and Diversity:Emphasising cultural enrichment and diversity, asseen in our collections and activities that cater toa broad spectrum of interests and backgrounds,including resources for the LGBTQIA community.Community Engagement:Actively engaging with communities througharts, learning-based activities, and support forcommunity groups, reflecting a commitment tobeing a central and active part of community lifein Wicklow.Education and Lifelong Learning:A strong focus on education, indicated by ourwide range of materials and resources forlearning, including books, CDs, talking books, andlanguage learning materials.Innovation and Adaptation:Demonstrating a willingness to adapt andinnovate, for instance, by offering services beyondthe library buildings like online resources, hybridevents and building partnerships with others inour community to strengthen our programming.

Our missionThe mission of the Wicklow County Council Library Service isfocused on providing a comprehensive service grounded inthe pillars of education, information, recreation, and culture.This mission is carried out within the framework of theWicklow County Council’s Corporate Plan. Our service operates a network of 13 branch libraries acrossthe county and a Mobile Library Service serving rural CountyWicklow. We currently welcome approximately 350,000visitors each year. We offer diverse services, including libraryservices to Shelton Abbey Prison and community outreach todirect provision centres, demonstrating a commitment toaccessibility and social inclusion.

To achieve Library ofSanctuary status, we needto focus on three key areasLearnEmbedShare

ApplicationProcessInitialcontactPledgeCommittmentPlandevelopmentApplicationSubmission

My OpenLibraryArklowLibraryWicklowTownLibrary

What is MOL?What services can I access?Who can use MOL?(MOL) is an unstaffed, self-service library, which is available atArklow and Wicklow libraries, Monday to Sunday between 8amand 10pm.Current normal staffed opening hours remain unchanged.Library users can avail of a variety of library services duringMOL hours, including:Borrowing and returning library itemsUsing public PCs/tabletsAccessing library wifiSelf-service printingDaily newspapersStudy spaces.MOL membership is available to all library patrons aged 16 andover.In order to be granted MOL access, patrons must attend a briefhealth and safety walkthough with a member of staff. Thesesessions are held regularly at Arklow and Wicklow libraries.

Events for Adults with Non-English First LanguageWe're dedicated to embracing diversity andinclusivity. Coffee painting with Olha, crochet for beginners,wreath-making workshops, and adult chesssessions all represent our commitment to fosteringa welcoming space for everyone. Through these activities, we celebrate culturaldiversity, encourage skill-sharing, and create asense of unity. These initiatives exemplify our mission to provide asanctuary where shared experiences, mutualrespect, and inclusivity thrive.

Children-Focused Activity-Based EventsThese children-focused, activity-based events are perfectlysuited for our Library of Sanctuary application. By offering Lego activities, rhyme time, tummy time,Magformers, holiday crafts, chess clubs, and Coderdojo, wecreate an inclusive environment where language is not abarrier. These activities foster creativity, social interaction, and skilldevelopment, promoting a sense of belonging for all children,regardless of their language background. Our commitment to providing a sanctuary for diversecommunities is evident through these engaging and inclusiveprograms.

Catering to our neuro-divergent communityThese events designed to cater to sensory issues play a crucialrole in our Library of Sanctuary application. By hosting sensory-friendly events in Arklow Library, providingaccess to the FAST Collection County wide, and offeringdedicated sensory spaces, we are prioritising inclusivity andaccessibility. The inclusion of the Sunflower Lanyard scheme ensures thatindividuals with hidden disabilities feel welcome and supportedwithin our library, solidifying our dedication to creating asanctuary for all, where everyone's needs are recognised andrespected.

Access to Information inMultiple LanguagesThese initiatives, focusing on providing access to information inmultiple languages, align perfectly with our Library of Sanctuaryapplication. Offering support for Languages Other Than English (LOTE),distributing library leaflets in Ukrainian, and granting access toBorrowbox with international newspapers and magazinesexemplify our commitment to inclusivity and diversity. These efforts ensure that our library is a welcoming space forindividuals from various linguistic backgrounds, fostering a senseof sanctuary where everyone can access information in theirpreferred language, regardless of their cultural or linguisticheritage.

Cultural Celebrations ofother CountriesOur Cultural Celebrations of Other Countries events hold specialsignificance in our Library of Sanctuary application. These eventsnot only bring our community together to celebrate cultures fromaround the world, but they also foster understanding andappreciation. In March 2023, in collaboration with Coláiste Chill Mantáin, wecurated 'The Past in My Place,' an exhibition showcasing localhistory projects by second-year history students. This initiative notonly highlights the rich history of County Wicklow but alsounderscores the diverse heritage of the students. With displaysfrom the local district and as far as Lithuania, Moldova, and SouthAfrica, we exemplify our commitment to celebrating the globalheritage of our community, making our library a true sanctuaryfor all.

Support for EnglishLanguage LearningOur commitment to English Language Learning is central toour Library of Sanctuary application. Through EnglishConversation Groups in Baltinglass, Enniskerry, and theWicklow Town Book Club, we provide valuable opportunitiesfor language acquisition and community engagement.Moreover, offering free access to language learningresources like LEXIA, TTRS, and the Transparent Languagesapp underscores our dedication to inclusivity. By providing a space where individuals can improve theirEnglish language skills, we foster a sense of belonging andempowerment among our new community members,reinforcing our commitment to creating a welcoming andinclusive sanctuary for all.

Connections with DirectProvision CentersOur connections with Direct Provision Centers are acornerstone of our Library of Sanctuary application.These initiatives, such as Denise's Storytime Sessions inKippure, Mobile Library Visits to Rathmore, a Jobs Fair forGrand Hotel Residents at Wicklow Library, and providing abus from Glencree to Enniskerry Library for a Lego Event,exemplify our commitment to inclusivity and communityoutreach. We strive to create a sense of belonging and support forresidents of Direct Provision Centers, ensuring that theyhave access to education, literacy, and opportunities forgrowth, thus embodying the spirit of a true sanctuary forall.Storytime in Rathmorewith Mobile LibraryStorytime Session in KippureDirect Provison Centre

In our quest for the Library of Sanctuary status, Wicklow CountyCouncil Library Service has embraced the 'Sanctuary in Nature &Heritage' initiative. This program connects newcomers to Irelandwith the beauty of Irish nature and the richness of our culturalheritage through meetings and talks in Baltinglass, Blessington,and Wicklow Town Library.Key Highlights:Introducing Irish landscapes, wildflowers, and wildlife.Showcasing Ireland's built heritage and cultural sites.Promoting understanding, inclusion, and community ties.This initiative is a cornerstone of our mission to make librariesinclusive sanctuaries, celebrating diversity and offering awelcoming space for all.Sanctuary in Nature &Heritage collaboration

Connections with newcommunities in WicklowSyrian Family Visit to Arklow Library: In 2020, Wicklow County Council Library Service continued itslongstanding tradition of welcoming newcomers from aroundthe globe. Among them were families from Syria whom wewarmly received at Arklow Library. We introduced thesefamilies to the library, providing the children with a specialwelcome pack of new picture books and essential information.To ensure effective communication, an interpreter was readilyavailable to bridge any language barriers encountered duringtheir visit.English Language Conversation Group: Our English Language Conversation Groups, pictured is ourBaltinlass group with their dedicated volunteers and ourCounty Librarian. This initiative offers a supportive space forlanguage learning and cultural exchange. Through meaningfulconversations, we bridge linguistic and cultural barriers,promoting understanding and community cohesion.

In our commitment to becoming a Library ofSanctuary, we address not only language andcultural barriers but also the broader needs of ourcommunity. We proudly introduce our Period PovertyInitiative, exemplifying our dedication to inclusivityand support for all individuals. By providing freeperiod products in all Wicklow Library toilets, we aimto ensure that menstruating individuals have accessto essential hygiene products, regardless of theircircumstances. This initiative reflects our core valuesof compassion, dignity, and creating a welcomingsanctuary for everyone in our community.Period Poverty Initiative

Tummy Time under the Tovertafel: Babies engage in crucial developmental activities under the Tovertafel, fosteringcognitive and physical growth in a stimulating environment.Chair Yoga and Parent-Baby Yoga: Offering chair yoga in Carnew and Wicklow, as well as parent-baby yoga in Arklow andBlessington, provides opportunities for gentle exercise, relaxation, and bonding forindividuals of all ages and abilities.Mobility and Movement Classes: In Baltinglass and Blessington, our mobility and movement classes cater to diverse needs,promoting flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.Resistance Training: Incorporating pilates and core strength exercises, our resistance training classes in Brayand Wicklow empower participants to build physical resilience and vitality.These initiatives underscore our commitment to providing inclusive,accessible, and supportive spaces where all individuals can thrivephysically, mentally, and emotionally.Healthy Initiatives in the library

Cyrillic & Arabic Keyboards: To better serve our community, Cyrillic and Arabic keyboards will soon be available, ensuringaccessibility for all.Partnership with Local Authority Integration Network Team: We're collaborating closely with the Local Authority Integration Network team within ourCouncil, leveraging resources and expertise to enhance our services and support networksfor newcomers.Multilingual Signage: Expanding our commitment to inclusivity, Wicklow County Council Library Service will soonintroduce more signage in different languages. This initiative aims to ensure that allmembers of our community feel welcomed and valued when they visit our libraries.Strengthening Partnerships: We're dedicated to expanding and deepening our partnerships with other libraries, our LocalAuthority Integration team, and other sanctuary groups. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to creating a libraryenvironment that's truly welcoming and inclusive for all.Future Plans

At Wicklow County Council Library Service, our staffare the cornerstone of our welcoming atmosphere.They embody our commitment to inclusivity andcommunity engagement.Our team's diversity and dedication reflect ourlibrary's mission: to be a sanctuary for learning,culture, and community connection.Diverse & Dedicated Staff:Heart of Wicklow LibrariesDiverse Team: Our staff hail from various countries,bringing rich perspectives and cultural insights.Early 2024, staff received awareness training froma child and adolescent psychotherapist and playtherapist who specialises in working with youngpeople from a refugee background, includingunaccompanied minors in the care of Tusla.Regular Staff Meetings: Inclusion and communityengagement are regular items on our meetingagendas, ensuring we stay aligned with our corevalues, “library as a place of sanctuary” is a fixeditem on our staff meeting agendas.Community Integration: We're not just a service;we're an integral part of our community. Ourlibraries offer a warm, welcoming, and free spacefor everyone.Commitment to Service: Our staff are dedicated tocreating a library environment that's not just aresource, but a home away from home for allmembers of our community.Key Points:

Wicklow County Council Library Service is proud to lead various initiatives that promote inclusivity andsupport diverse communities:Shelton Abbey CollaborationThrough our partnership with Shelton Abbey Open Prison, we foster community reintegration andprovide support for individuals transitioning back into society.LGBTQIA+ InclusivityOur library service offers a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially those comingfrom countries where there is no tolerance. We celebrate diversity and provide resources for educationand advocacy.Mental Health SupportRecognising the intersectionality of mental health, our libraries offer programs and resources to supportindividuals facing mental health challenges, fostering a compassionate and understanding community.These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feelswelcomed, supported, and valued. They align with our Library of Sanctuary application by promotingunderstanding, community cohesion, and support for vulnerable populations.Other Proud Initiatives: Creating Inclusive Spacesat Wicklow Libraries

Wear Red to Work DayAt Wicklow County Council Library Service, weparticipated in Wear Red to Work Day.This day demonstrated our commitment topromoting inclusivity and standing againstracial discrimination.By raising awareness and showing solidaritywith those affected by racial discrimination,we reinforce our library's role as a sanctuaryfor all members of our community. This alignswith our Library of Sanctuary application byfostering understanding, acceptance, and unityamong people from different backgrounds.#internationaldayfortheeliminationofracialdiscrimination.

How to help!Attend Events: Participate in our cultural celebrations,language learning groups, and communityevents.Share Your Ideas: We value your input; share your ideas andsuggestions to help us continually improve.Spread the Word: Let others in the community know about ourinitiatives and encourage them to getinvolved.

TestimonialsJoining Baltinglass Library’s English Language conversationgroup in 2023 was a turning point for me as a newcomer fromUkraine. Through the group, I improved my English skills andfound a welcoming community. Now, as a facilitator for artsand crafts workshops in Baltinglass, I'm grateful for the supportI've found. Baltinglass has become my second home, where I'vemade friends and contributed to the community. (Olha Fil)“As founder and co-director of Sanctuary In Nature and Heritage, I'm delighted toendorse in the warmest terms the credentials of Wicklow Libraries to join the Librariesof Sanctuary network. Last year, while Muhammad Achour (copied ) and I were working through theHeritage Council's Capacity Building Grant to promote our model of activities inWicklow, Margaret Birchall and her colleagues simply could have been more helpfuland indeed pro-active. They advised us early on of other good contact networks inthe county, they gave us a conference room and facilities for two days of meetingswith interested people in Wicklow, and they set up a meeting in Blessington Libraryalso.”Paddy Woodworth

Our journey towards becoming a Library of Sanctuary is marked by ourunwavering commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and support for allmembers of our community. Through a rich tapestry of initiatives, from cultural celebrations tolanguage learning programs, sensory-friendly events to period povertyinitiatives, we have strived to create a sanctuary where everyone feelsvalued, respected, and empowered.Our library is more than just a place of books; it's a space wheredifferences are celebrated, where barriers are dismantled, and whereconnections are forged. We are proud to stand as a beacon of inclusivity and support, and wewill continue to evolve and expand our efforts to ensure that our libraryremains a true sanctuary for all.“Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we invite you to be a partof our ongoing mission to make our library a place where everyone feelsat home. Together, we build a stronger, more vibrant, and more inclusivecommunity for all”.Conclusion“In times of trouble, libraries aresanctuaries.”― Susan Orlean, The Library Book

Library of Sanctuary Team:Margaret Birchall Mary MurphyGeraldine ColganColin HeslinDeirdre PriestleyLaura LarkinVita ColemanDavid FordeCatherine CostelloErica Birchall 13 libraries countywide including a MobileLibrary.The team covers the whole county; North,South, East and West.