ABSTRACT

Many public libraries in Canada offer services and programs for immigrants, including employment assistance to assist newcomers with their settlement in Canada. Using a mixed method research design, this study explores the use of public libraries by Bangladeshi immigrants in Canada including their use of public library settlement services, along with their pre-migration access to public library services. The study finds immigrants’ use of public libraries declines over time. However, it is also evident in this study that public libraries played a positive role in newcomers’ settlement into Canadian society. The findings related to the lack of familiarity with public libraries in a pre-arrival context highlight the importance of having a strong public library outreach program for immigrant populations. The author urges public libraries offering services to immigrants to make meaningful partnerships with pre-and post-arrival settlement agencies, local ethnic community and religious organizations, and ethnic media to spread the word about public library programs and services for immigrants.

摘要

加拿大的许多公共图书馆都为移民提供服务和计划，包括就业援助以帮助新移民在加拿大定居。本研究采用混合方法研究设计，探讨了加拿大孟加拉国移民对公共图书馆的使用，包括他们对公共图书馆定居服务的使用，以及他们在移民前对公共图书馆服务的访问。该研究发现移民对公共图书馆的使用随着时间的推移而下降。然而，在这项研究中也很明显，公共图书馆在新移民融入加拿大社会方面发挥了积极作用。与在抵达前背景下对公共图书馆缺乏熟悉相关的调查结果强调了为移民人群制定强大的公共图书馆外展计划的重要性。