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, from City of Sanctuary UK, celebrates libraries that create safe, inclusive community spaces for people from backgrounds of forced displacement.
Re-accreditation highlights Newbury Library's sustained work to promote compassion, inclusion and wellbeing. The library works 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.
Practical support includes free PC and Wi-Fi access, one-to-one IT support sessions, the National Databank providing free mobile data, and online resources such as GoCitizen and Theory Test Pro, available in multiple languages.
It also offers inclusive stock like New World Fiction, Quick Reads, dual-language children's books and ESOL-friendly materials.
All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding and equality training. Refugee voices are reflected in meetings, displays and events, and the library takes part in Refugee Week, National Poetry Day and other cultural celebrations, with people seeking sanctuary helping shape activities.
The original award, first achieved in 2023, highlighted the library's partnership with local organisation Educafe, which celebrates different cultures and promotes social inclusion, health and wellbeing through shared events, food, education and language support.
Nigel Foot (Lib Dem, Newbury Clay Hill), executive member for leisure, sport and countryside at West Berkshire Council, said: "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 Educafe 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."
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
