Saskatoon's public library system prepares for Syrian refugees

The Saskatoon Public Library is getting ready for the arrival of Syrian refuges to the city.

Beth Ct,Manager of Digital Initiatives,said they understand the importance of the library in the lives of newcomers in the city.

"We see many families, every day, from all over the world."

Ct was a guest today on CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning.

The library has formed a task force to identify howthey can best meet the needs of Syrian refugees.Ct said they are exploring a lot of ideas and are already taking some action.

"Right now what we are looking at is ways that we can expand that collection in the short term to add more materials, especially for people who are native Arabic speakers."

Library reaches out to other support groups

Ct also said that refuges will be able to take advantage of other existing program such as the English conversation circlesand the book club for English learners.

In the meantime, she saidthey are also reaching out to other organizations that will be helping Syrian refugees to see if there are ways the library can support the work they are doing.

"There are things we can offer, like space and materials, in a safe space for people to come and be."