During this year’s Refugee Week (19-25 June), Hampshire Libraries want to remind sanctuary seekers living locally, including refugees and asylum seekers, as well as host families, that everyone who comes to the library can expect a warm welcome.
Alongside our regular Community Connections free drop-in sessions, which are open to all sanctuary seekers who are looking for helpful information or just want to pop in for a chat, libraries in Hampshire will be running additional events and activities throughout Refugee Week.
During Refugee Week visitors to libraries will also be encouraged to try some of the ‘Ten simple acts’ to show they stand with refugees and want to make new connections in their communities. These simple acts are everyday actions most people can do, from reading a book or watching a film about being a refugee to using social media platforms to raise awareness about issues impacting refugees.
As a Library Service of Sanctuary, we have purchased books in a range of languages and provide access to international newspapers on PressReader. All libraries also have a selection of simple games to make visits to the library more accessible and enjoyable for sanctuary seekers and their families.
We are working with partners to offer events and activities for new arrivals as well as providing free room hire for refugee groups to meet. Some libraries will soon be holding conversation cafés, giving people the opportunity to practice speaking English in a relaxed and informal environment.
Here are just some of the events taking place during this week:
Volodymyr Vasylenko – Ukrainian accordionist
A taste of Ukrainian music at this special, free performance by jazz accordionist Volodymyr Vasylenko on Wednesday 21 June, 7pm – 8pm at Basingstoke Discovery Centre.
Chinese Brush Painting workshops
During the session you will have the opportunity to learn the basics of Chinese brushwork - an ancient art form. Maggie will demonstrate the basic brushstrokes before painting bamboo and plum blossoms. She will also talk about the symbolism surrounding these subjects. You will then be able to 'have a go' yourself with guidance from Maggie.
Join these free workshops at Winchester Library. Book your places: Chinese Brush Painting workshop
N’famady Kouyaté and Center of Mass - Concert
N’famady Kouyaté is a talented multi-instrumentalist from Guinea (Conakry) – now based in Cardiff - who wowed audiences with his modern interpretations of traditional West African Mandingue songs and rhythms when he supported Gruff Rhys (Super Furry Animals) on the Pang! album tour in 2022.
Center of Mass are a duet and a family: Pavlo Korobkov and Vlada Kirichenko. Performing songs inspired by their favourite authors.
Join them for this brilliant, free concert at Winchester Library, The Arc on Wednesday 21 June at 7.45pm. Book your tickets: N'famady Kouyaté + Center Of Mass
