Newcomers

For anyone who is now trying to make Northern Ireland their home there is help available in your local libraries.

Reachdeck is available on the Libraries NI website and on every library computer and it works by providing a translation tool for text on other web pages. Reachdeck will translate the text into 99 languages and offers a “speak aloud” option for 40 of these. A short video can help with using the software.

For library membership you no longer need to have proof of ID or an address so joining is easier. Once joined, you will be able to borrow books and use computers and/or Wi-Fi.

The library is also a good place to engage with the local community and to meet other people. There are many activities taking place in the local library many of which can help you to connect with other local people.

As you begin to learn English there are books available to help you on that journey. Libraries are full of books for all reading levels and there are also books available in different languages.