Library Services to Immigrants and Non-English Speakers

By Margaret Diaz

       As the number of foreign-born U.S. residents grows, the need for services to immigrants and to non-English speakers grows. Based on multiple reports, it is no surprise that the dominant non-English language group in the U.S. is Spanish. Many libraries located in areas with a large Spanish-speaking population have adapted their services and resources in order to serve the neighboring patrons. The same goes for libraries located in areas with other language groups, such as any Asian or European languages (American Library Assoaciation, 5). Research has shown that libraries have done a good job at providing services in those languages. Many libraries have broadened their influence by constantly surveying their neighborhoods to make sure they are reaching those who live there (Burke, 2008). Literacy in one’s native language is important before trying to learn another language, such as English. Libraries want to ensure that English language learners remain literate in their native tongue as well as in English (Urban Library Council, 12-13).

       Libraries are working harder to have staff members on hand who speak the languages of the patrons in the neighborhood (Hoffert, 2008). It is important for immigrants to the United States to have a safe place to go to learn about their new home, to stay connected to their home country, and to learn English—libraries have been and will continue to be that place. Multilingual services that libraries should include are newspapers, periodicals, books, reference services, translations of other-language books, and multimedia resources such as music and video among other items (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, 3). Libraries are also a major source of citizenship services, so this is another way that libraries bring in patrons. One of the major services that all libraries provide is the service to preschool and school-age children. Children’s services open the door to parents who might otherwise be intimidated to be in a public place as an immigrant. Library services to immigrants and non-English speakers will continue to be important and needed in all communities.

References

American Library Association Office for Research and Statistics. (2008). Serving Non-English Speakers in U.S. Public Libraries: 2007 Analysis of Library Demographics, Services and Programs.

Burke, Susan. (2008). Use of public libraries by immigrants. Reference and User Services Quarterly 48(2), 164-174.

Hoffert, Barbara. (2008). Immigrant nation. Library Journal 133(14), 34-36.

Urban Libraries Council. (2008). Welcome stranger: Public libraries build the global village. Chicago, IL:  Ashton, Rick J., & Milam, Danielle Patrick.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. (2006). Library Services for Immigrants: A Report on Current Practices.