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Surrey Libraries Opens Newcomer Welcome Centre to Support Immigrants
11-26-2025
Surrey, BC — Surrey Libraries is proud to announce the official opening of its Newcomer Welcome Centre, a dedicated space designed to support immigrants and refugees as they settle into life in Surrey. The Centre, located on the fourth floor of the City Centre branch, was unveiled during a celebratory event on Friday, November 7, 2025.
The Newcomer Welcome Centre offers multilingual resources, referrals to community agencies, and programs and workshops for individuals and families new to Canada. It reflects Surrey Libraries’ commitment to fostering inclusion and accessibility in one of Canada’s most diverse cities.
“Surrey is a city built on diversity, resilience, and opportunity,” said Mayor Brenda Locke during the opening ceremony. “Nearly half of our residents are immigrants, and every day, newcomers enrich our community with their cultures, languages, and talents. The Newcomer Welcome Centre is a beacon of support, hope, and belonging for thousands of individuals and families starting new chapters in their lives.”
The Centre features bilingual books, educational toys, computers, and trained staff who are ready to assist newcomers with navigating local services and resources. It also serves as a hub for community connection and collaboration with settlement agencies and cultural organizations.
“As Chair of the Surrey Libraries Board of Trustees, I am delighted to celebrate this milestone,” said Tanveer Sohal. “Libraries are more than just places to borrow books—they are places of connection, learning, and support. The Newcomer Welcome Centre is a space where newcomers are welcomed, respected, and valued.”
The opening event included an Indigenous welcome ceremony led by Elder Richard Pierre of the Katzie First Nation, remarks from community leaders, and a ribbon cutting. Attendees also toured the new space and participated in creating a community art installation that will be featured in the Centre.
Surrey Libraries extends its gratitude to the City of Surrey, community partners, and volunteers who helped bring this vision to life.
For more information on the Newcomer Welcome Centre and other services available for newcomers from Surrey Libraries, visit https://www.surreylibraries.ca/newcomer-welcome-centre or contact a Surrey Libraries branch.
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