HAMPSHIRE County Council's library service has gained national recognition.

The service has received recognition for its work to provide a safe and supportive space to people from all communities.

Hampshire is the first county-wide library network to gain the Library Service of Sanctuary Award, which has been granted by City of Sanctuary UK.  

Executive member for countryside, culture and communities Cllr Russell Oppenheimer said: “This prestigious national award recognises that Hampshire’s libraries are a safe, supportive space for everyone where all cultures are celebrated. Our library teams work incredibly hard to provide a warm welcome to anyone including most recently, individuals from Ukraine and Afghanistan.

"All 40 library branches in Hampshire have met City of Sanctuary UK’s standards to demonstrate they are inclusive, tolerant places that offer a package of supportive activities, practical help, and advice. Examples include providing a wide range of face-to-face courses and e-learning, free space for English language lessons, stocking diverse book titles, and hosting Community Connection events that bring people together. The Service of Sanctuary Award is a quality mark that illustrates our commitment to delivering a modern library service that puts our residents at the heart of all they do.”

In 2022, Hampshire’s libraries have played a vital role to support Ukrainian arrivals. The library service has hosted 202 events to help 2,079 people from Ukraine and their Hampshire hosts. The events have created a safe place for individuals to chat, meet others, and to link with local services, partners, and community groups.

Translated welcome packs, local maps, and some household essentials have also been made available. The Library Service has provided library membership to 491 Ukrainians to date, enabling them to access free books and online resources in line with the full standard membership offer available for all. Libraries have also hosted temporary visa centres and teamed up with other organisations to provide English Language opportunities. Several Ukrainians now also volunteer and have been recruited to library teams across the county.  

Siân Summers-Rees, chief officer City of Sanctuary UK, added: “We extend our congratulations to Hampshire Libraries for gaining a Library of Sanctuary Award; this award recognises the enormous efforts they have made to support people seeking sanctuary. We are delighted to welcome them to the growing network of libraries from across the UK who have committed and are taking action to welcoming people seeking sanctuary.”