Scarborough Public Library Maxen Ryder

The Scarborough Public Library has received a grant from the Maine Public Library for $5,000 to expand and create access to library services for non-English speakers, particularly new Mainers.

“Our goal is to remove barriers and enable new Mainers of all ages to use the library and its resources confidently and to connect them with the resources they want and need,” said Deanna McNamara, youth services manager at the Scarborough Public Library. “We are committed to facilitating these connections for all residents seeking support.”

New website technologies will enable people to connect with community and social services. There will also be translated library outreach materials, programming for English language learners, and a multilingual collection of books available for both youth and adults. Information on using library services will also be translated.

A collection of print materials for new Mainers is being created that will include reference books and materials from the I’m Your Neighbor Welcoming Library that is aimed at creating all-ages empathetic and educational content related to immigration.

The library uses the accessibility software ReciteMe in their website and newsletter. This software allows users to customize the website into languages and fonts that are more accessible for the user. These features can also be used for other accessibility needs, such as to assist those with dyslexia.

“These new services are a baby step into building awareness of our services, so that we can in turn support every member of our community,” said McNamara.

The library also holds an English Language Learning class weekly, in partnership with the University of Southern Maine and Scarborough Adult Education. The library is also planning a workshop on Introduction to Library Services with translators from Language Partners.

“We have a long tradition of connecting our patrons with much needed community services and providing support for academic, cultural and social development,” said McNamara. “Language and cultural understanding are barriers to providing the impeccable services our community has come to expect. Serving the many diverse needs of a community can be challenging; accessibility for everyone is of vital importance.”

“The library is one of the only places that provide services at no charge,” she said. “We are a community center, and we are keenly aware of the services available within our community as well as what is happening locally. We have the ability to put patrons in touch with the resources they need whether it be health literacy, legal services, help gaining citizenship or providing a place for them to play with their children.”