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

Glasgow Women’s Library (GWL) has become the first library in Scotland to be recognised as a Library of Sanctuary. This status is awarded to organisations that actively welcome and support refugees and people seeking asylum.

The announcement was made during Refugee Festival Scotland, which runs from 13 to 22 June and celebrates and supports Scotland’s refugee community.

GWL’s work is centred on care, solidarity, and the belief that everyone deserves to belong. Their activities include creative workshops, language support, inclusive programming, and community storytelling. Their Conversation Café has provided vital support for many women as they build confidence in speaking English, and events like the Urdu Poetry Story Cafés (pictured above) and the She Settles in the Shields project, showcase the rich cultural contributions of Glasgow’s migrant communities. Additionally, GWL offers volunteering opportunities for women seeking sanctuary, allowing them to develop skills, gain confidence, and build community.

Find out more about Glasgow Women’s Library and their programme of events on their website.