Glasgow Women’s Library becomes Scotland’s first Library of Sanctuary

Category: News

To mark the start of Refugee Festival Scotland (13–22 June 2025), Glasgow Women’s Library have announced their success in being officially recognised as Scotland’s first Library of Sanctuary.

As highlighted in our 2022 webinar (recording below) to encourage applications from libraries of all sectors across Scotland, Library of Sanctuary status is awarded to libraries that go above and beyond to show solidarity and welcome new arrivals in their communities.

From creative workshops to language support, inclusive programming to community storytelling, GWL’s work is shaped by care, solidarity, and the belief that everyone deserves to belong. Examples of their inspiring activities include Conversation Café, which has been a lifeline for many women developing confidence in speaking English, and events like their Urdu Poetry Story Cafés (pictured above) and the She Settles in the Shields project, highlighting the rich cultural contributions of Glasgow’s migrant communities. GWL also offers volunteering opportunities for women seeking sanctuary, providing a chance to build skills, confidence, and community.

Wendy Kirk, GWL librarian, said:

We are beyond thrilled to become part of the Library of Sanctuary network, and the wider City of Sanctuary movement, which is building a movement of welcome all across the UK. This is needed now more than ever.

Libraries are much-loved community anchors, and are perfectly placed to be spaces of welcome, hope and connection for people who have been forcibly displaced. We hope that our commitment to being a welcoming space for people seeking sanctuary will be even more visible now that we have received our award. I look forward to more libraries in Scotland joining this vital network of solidarity, inclusivity and compassion.

For Zahra Adam, GWL volunteer and sanctuary seeker:

When I first joined Glasgow Women’s Library in 2022, I didn’t feel confident because all the people were new to me. But I realised everyone was so kind and welcoming, I quickly felt at ease.

GWL helped me improve my English, make new friends, and learn about other cultures. Volunteering in the garden and craft sessions gave me confidence, teamwork skills, and a voice. GWL is a safe and supportive space where I feel valued and able to grow.

John Vincent, author of Libraries and Sanctuary (Facet, 2022) and coordinator of The Network, supporting libraries and fellow cultural organisations working towards social justice, added:

I’m thrilled that Glasgow Women’s Library have become Scotland’s first Library of Sanctuary – this recognises their long history of welcome and the enormous amount they have done and continue to do to support new arrivals, from which libraries of all sizes, sectors and locations can take inspiration. Congratulations!

For more on GWL’s achievement and activities, please visit their website, or find out more about becoming a Library of Sanctuary at libraries.cityofsanctuary.org.