Supporters helping Gander library stock shelves for Syrian refugees

Employees with the Gander Public Library are doing their best to make sure the shelves are stocked for the five refugee families who are coming to Central Newfoundland in the coming weeks.

This includesbooks in Arabic for children and adults.

Regional librarianCourtney Penneysaid supporters of the effort have been doing everything they can to prepare for the refugees' arrival.

Central Morning4:58Gander Library Looks for Arabic Books

The Gander Library is putting a call out for books for the Syrian families headed our way. We talk to Regional Librarian for Central Newfoundland, Courtney Penney.

She said they've been securing and soliciting donations for books and learning materials in Arabic.

These books will include dual English and Arabic language children'sbooks,and materials for adults.

"We are making sure that we have a lot of leisure material for adults, both reading material but also material that will help them with their English," said Penney.

"We want to make sure that we can give them all the tools that they need so that they can thrive in Gander. If they choose not to stay in Gander, that's fine, but it's so important that they learn English."

Three Syrian members of the Gander community have helped with the effortby making sure the library selects appropriate and effective material.

"They've been really helpful in offering their servicesof course they speak Arabicso they're invaluable," she said.

The library has received a number of donations from members of the community, including fromthe Anglican church.

Penneysaid more help would be welcomed.

"In the future, we're hoping to purchase some signs that would say 'Welcome' in Arabic and maybe (identify) the different sections of the library."

Details are still being finalized on how the library willwelcome the refugees.

Penney said plans are in the works to provide translation services so the new arrivals can getacquainted with the services available at the library.