I find that my research question has become a lot more focussed. I am interested in what barrier (invisible or otherwise) exist to keep vulnerable populations, particularly "Newcomers" to Canada, from using the sources available to them. The more I read up on it, the deeper the understanding was. For instance, TPL does not do much in the way of public advertising. If resources are not advertised, then how will they be known? TPL relies on word-of-mouth, so it's not what you know, but rather whom.
Can any of you think of any barriers that keep those who need social programs the most from getting the assistance readily available to them?
This is a bit specific, but in the library I work at all of the more expensive programs are held at the larger branch. There isn't any simple public transit between the branches (only GO buses, which are expensive and don't come by very often), so if someone can't drive they can't move between branches easily. I find is strange that the people who might benefit most from the services aren't able to access them.
ReplyDeleteI think some other barriers might include:
ReplyDelete- language barriers (either the pamphlets TPL does hand out or the programs themselves may not be in a their first language)
- public libraries specifically might not be well used community hubs in the newcomer(s) previous country of residence so they might not know about or be comfortable using public libraries as resources
- not all libraries use a community-led approach, therefore, they may be reaching out to newcomers but telling them what they have to offer (as if they know exactly what each newcomer needs) instead of asking the newcomer(s) what their needs are and what the library can do for them
Just some brainstormed ideas! :)
I think this narrowed research question is incredibly important. How can we focus on improving services if the ones we already offer aren't utilized and folks aren't aware of them?
ReplyDeleteIn terms of barriers, I think language is definitely one of them. Language plays such a large role in not only advertising services, but also disseminating services. Can a settlement worker who only speaks English help recent newcomers who don't speak it at all?
The way services are advertised is important as well. Are we careful to specify that the services are free and open for all newcomers? I really like a recent poster that went up in our libraries, assuring folks who don't have permanent status in Canada that there are services they can still use! (e.g. emergency services, libraries). This confirmation of safety is so important - no one's going to use a service if they feel it puts them or their loved ones at risk.
Another I would say is time - what time are these services being offered? Are they considerate of long work days and busy home lives? Are any resources offered in the evenings or weekends?
Also! I think we often forget how important staff is to creating a welcome environment. If a newcomer comes in to make a library card and is met with a disgruntled staff member who clearly isn't happy to be dealing with them, I'd argue that that's a barrier to service in itself!
Excellent input, Eleni, Margot and Ling! I had some of these ideas, but I definitely used some of these in my paper. This why peer work is so important! Man is not an island, and invaluable information can be gleaned when we discuss topics with one another
ReplyDelete