Useful library information for refugees and asylum seekers
Find your local library
To find your nearest library type in your postcode or street (minimum six characters) and select your address:
Southampton has 11 libraries. You can view the locations of all of these by checking our map.
Join a library
It’s free to get a library card from your local library. Ask for the new ‘Welcome Card’.
The library will need to see your ID. This can include:
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Application Registration Card (ARC)
- Convention Travel Document
- Immigration status letter
- Asylum Support Letter
Anyone with a ‘Welcome Card' will pay no fines or charges, even for lost or overdue items.
Use the library to
- Meet family and friends
- Read newspapers, magazines and books
- Find information, help and advice
Services we offer
Free access to and help with computers SHOW
Resources to learn and improve English SHOW
Read books and newspapers in your own language SHOW
Activities SHOW
Contact the library
For more information please telephone 023 8083 3007.
Other useful contacts
Organisations supporting asylum seekers and refugees in Southampton SHOW
Local organisations – befriending service SHOW
National organisations – help, advice and support SHOW
Southampton City Libraries are delighted to become only the third library service in the country to be awarded the prestigious Library of Sanctuary, and the first in the City of Sanctuary South West Region.
