As part of Canadian Library Month, CUPE is presenting stories from members of the National Library Workers’ Committee to highlight and celebrate the different roles CUPE library workers play in promoting literacy in their communities.
Kathleen Brennan, CUPE 2157
I’m a Library Access Technician at the main campus of Keyano College in Fort McMurray, Alberta. The college offers free English language classes for newcomers in the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada, LINC, program, which is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. As the library liaison for LINC, I work with faculty and students to ensure the library is acquiring resources that will be effective among and well-used by, program participants.
Sometimes, the resources made for English language learners can be limited or dated. I make sure that I invest time connecting with those teaching and participating in the LINC program to determine what resources will have the greatest impact on students’ literacy skills and learning outcomes. I have created both paper and online surveys for students in the LINC program to find out what subjects, genres, and authors they like. I also use the survey as a tool to make them aware of other bilingual or multilingual library resources that may be of interest to them, such as streaming videos or items in our technology collection. I strive to ensure the students know that they are seen and that, even though they may be part of a smaller group on campus, they are important.