Through a winning combination of local initiatives and programs backed by the NSW State Library, Snowy Monaro Regional Libraries are having a big impact on the lives of the local multicultural community.
Belén is a young mother who recently emigrated to the Snowy Monaro with her husband and son from Panama. Her son, David, is seven years old and spoke only Spanish when they arrived. With help from the library, David's irrepressible love of reading was soon helping him master one of the hardest languages to learn - English.
Through ongoing participation in events and workshops held at Cooma Library, and immersion through school and daily life, David's proficiency and confidence continued to grow.
Soon, Belén found herself in a perplexing situation. Her son, who until very recently spoke only Spanish, now answered in English when she spoke to him in their native tongue.
Belen had heard from a friend about a NSW State Library service offered by Cooma Library, which organises bulk-loans of books in a wide range of different languages. Guided through the process by Council staff, soon Belen and David had their hands on a trove of Spanish-language picture and story books.
Once again spurred on by David's love of reading, his Spanish started to return.
Belén and her family utilise the whole range of services offered by Snowy Monaro Regional Libraries to live richer, fuller lives. From books in both English and Spanish, a range of events for kids and adults, through to simply having access to a nurturing and free public space to explore, learn, bond, relax and grow, the library has supported their family and continues to do so.
