The Library Settlement Services program is a partnership between Edmonton Public Library and Edmonton Immigrant Services Association.

Settlement Practitioners work in the library setting to:

• Assess needs of immigrant families and the barriers to successful integration;
• Provide newcomers with information and resources on settlement and immigration issues;
• Increase newcomer understanding of Canadian culture and how to function competently in the community at-large;
• Increase newcomer participation in the community;
• Increase access to programs and services of particular relevance and need for newcomers. Services are provided in a culturally competent manner, in languages specific to the needs of each family.

Families are connected with many services that assist in making the transition to a new community including:

• Finding a place to live;
• Getting information about your rights as an employee or tenant;
• Setting up a telephone line;
• Applying for a Social Insurance Number;
• Applying for an Alberta Health Card;
• Applying for Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB);
• Finding a bank and opening an account;
• Locating and accessing child care services;
• Accessing public transit;
• Obtaining a driver’s licence;
• Assessing work skills, accreditation and licensing;
• Resume writing and job search workshops;
• Upgrading skills and building academic credentials;
• Learning about local customs, rights and responsibilities;
• Learning English & literacy;
• Searching for recreation programs;
• Finding a family doctor;
• Applying for health benefits;
• Applying for family sponsorship;
• Applying for citizenship.

In-Library Settlement Support Services are offered at:

• Millwoods Public Library
• Stanley Milner Public Library
• Londonderry Public Library

For more information, please contact Oliver Kamau, Regional Program Coordinator at 780-474-8445 (ext. 226), or via e-mail at okamau@shawbiz.ca.