Newbury Library re‑accredited as a Library of Sanctuary
Re‑accreditation recognises sustained work to promote compassion, inclusion and wellbeing
Newbury Library has been re‑accredited as a Library of Sanctuary, recognising its continued commitment to welcoming and supporting refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
The Library of Sanctuary Award, given by City of Sanctuary UK, celebrates libraries that go above and beyond to create safe, inclusive and welcoming community spaces for people from a background of forced displacement.
Re‑accreditation recognises Newbury Library's sustained work to promote compassion, inclusion and wellbeing, and highlights the vital role libraries play as trusted, free and accessible community spaces.
Newbury Library works closely with West Berkshire Council teams and local partners, including EduCafe, the Community Engagement Team, the Ukraine Support Hub, Recovery in Mind, and the Ethnic Minority & Traveller Achievement Service.
Together, they help ensure that people seeking sanctuary can access reliable information, wellbeing support, digital inclusion and opportunities to connect with others in the community.
Practical support available at the library includes free PC and Wi‑Fi access, one‑to‑one IT support sessions, the National Databank, which provides free mobile data, and online resources such as GoCitizen and Theory Test Pro, available in multiple languages. The library also offers a wide range of inclusive and accessible stock, including New World Fiction, Quick Reads, dual‑language children's books and ESOL‑friendly materials.
Re‑accreditation also recognises Newbury Library's strong focus on learning and awareness‑raising. All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding and equality training, and refugee voices are regularly reflected through staff meetings, displays and events. The library plays an active role in Refugee Week, National Poetry Day and other cultural celebrations, ensuring that people seeking sanctuary are actively involved in shaping activities and sharing their stories in their own words.
The library's original award, first achieved in 2023, highlighted its ongoing partnership with local organisation EduCafe, which works with community partners to celebrate different cultures and promote social inclusion, health and wellbeing through shared events, food, education and language support.
"Being re‑accredited as a Library of Sanctuary is a real achievement and something Newbury Library should be extremely proud of. This award recognises a continued commitment to kindness, inclusion and welcome.
"Libraries have long been safe spaces for people of all ages, and Newbury Library truly lives up to that role. With its doors open six days a week and an excellent range of free support and activities, it plays a vital part in the community.
"The ongoing work with Educafé is particularly special and unique, showing how partnership working can help build a more welcoming and compassionate UK for people forced to flee their homes."
