The neighbourhood public library is a critical resource for newcomers to Canada. The Library Settlement Partnership (LSP) program established in 2008, brought CultureLink settlement workers to work in the libraries assisting newcomer clients regardless of their immigration status and engaging them in all aspects of Canadian life.
Variety of information sessions based on the needs of the newcomer community were organized by LSP program worker Claudia Montoya at the Mimico Centennial Library in April-May 2019; more than 400 newcomers have been served.
Citizenship Test Preparation included five training sessions to study for the Citizenship test and learn about the rights and responsibilities of the Canadian citizenship. Participants took the practice test at the last session and met with presided Citizenship Judge Rodney Simmons, who answered their questions.
New immigrants have been learning and enhancing their parenting skills at the four-week Parenting program with a wide variety of topics covered.
For the Mother’s Day Celebration, LSP Mimico prepared a series of surprises for mothers and their families who came to celebrate this special day together: Clothing swap, Butterflies making, Family communication skills training, Yoga Laugh, Food and Presents.

The workshop Together We Can Change the World led by the guest speaker Alvaro Daza, inspired newcomers by the idea of starting a new business in Canada using opportunity of connection and sharing experiences with other new entrepreneurs from all over the world, overcoming stereotypes and proving that all of us are stronger together.

All these programs not only provide the participants with an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, network and exchange their experiences, but also meet LSP’s goal to help newcomers successfully settle in Toronto over the long term.