Libraries of Sanctuary
In 2019 Brighton & Hove Libraries became the second library in the country to be awarded Library of Sanctuary status, which was celebrated as part of Refugee Week in June 2020.
The Libraries of Sanctuary award recognises good practice in libraries which welcome people seeking sanctuary and other new arrivals into their community and seek to foster a culture of welcome and inclusivity.
It’s overseen by City of Sanctuary UK, who support a nationwide network to build a culture of welcome for people seeking sanctuary and promote understanding, recognition and celebration of the ways in which people seeking sanctuary enrich society.
Read more about Libraries of Sanctuary.
Joining our libraries
Libraries are open to you and available to everyone, both on-site and online. Becoming a library member is free and joining is easy.
You do not have to be a member to visit or use a library but joining allows you to do much more and most things are free.
You are welcome to join the library without any documents. We will ask for your name, contact details and date of birth.
You can get an Exempt library card if you are seeking asylum.
Read more about joining our libraries.
How we can support you
We offer a range of free resources, services, and facilities to support new arrivals into our communities.
We can support you to find information, access resources, get online and develop new skills. You can:
- borrow books for all ages including in other languages, eBooks and audio books
- find support to learn English with books, CDs and online language courses
- use our computers and the library Wi-Fi
- get one to one help with basic IT skills like setting up an e-mail account
- prepare for the Life in the UK Test with GoCitizen online
- read newspapers and magazines including those from other countries
- find space to study for learners of all ages
- spend time in calm spaces with comfy chairs
- share stories, rhymes and play at family sessions
- take part in creative activities and inspiring events
You can find out more information by:
Brighton & Hove, City of Sanctuary
Brighton & Hove is one of a large network of UK Cities of Sanctuary. The local City of Sanctuary group is called Sanctuary on Sea.
Sanctuary on Sea have worked with the council to produce a directory of local services for refugees and migrants. This contains details of local organisations that can help refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in the area and also local organisations working to help refugees overseas.
The My Life directory lists services and organisations in Brighton & Hove offering support to refugees, asylum seekers and migrants.