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Newcomers

Vaughan Public Libraries is dedicated to supporting our growing community. Our libraries provide access to materials that reflect the residents of Vaughan. Below is a collection of information and resources that may be helpful to newcomers.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Collection

Our libraries carry a large selection of materials to help you learn the English language. These materials include books, audiobooks, DVDs, and multimedia kits.


Explore our ESL Collection


World Languages Collection

Do you need help?

If you require assistance, you may contact us using a method you prefer. Our diverse staff can communicate in a variety of languages. We also have access to third party language interpretation for over 200 languages over the phone, provided by Language Line Services.


Ask Us!


Brainfuse HelpNow provides resources for students from kindergarten to grade 12, including access to live tutors, live French and Spanish language help, an online writing lab, LEAP learning platform and more! An Adult Learning Centre is also available. Get help with High School Equivalency preparation, the Canadian Citizenship Exam, Microsoft Office, Career Resources and more! Available Online

Le service Brainfuse HelpNow offre des ressources pour les élèves du préscolaire à la 12e année. Cela inclut du tutorat en direct disponible en français, un service d’aide à la rédaction et bien plus! Un centre de formation pour adulte est aussi disponible. Recevez de l’aide en français ou en anglais pour la préparation à l'équivalence du diplôme d'études secondaires et au test de citoyenneté canadienne. Des ressources professionnelles comme la rédaction de C.V. et l’apprentissage de Microsoft Office sont aussi offertes. Disponible en ligne


Instant access to 4000 newspapers from 100 countries in 60 languages! The newspapers appear in their original format and original languages. Newspapers are often available before they hit the newsstands in their respective countries. PressReader features archived issues up to two weeks, a magnifying lens / zoom option, bookmarks, and full-text search. Newspapers are organized by country, by language, and alphabetically. Note: The Globe and Mail is only accessible from using PressReader mobile app in the library using library WiFi. Mobile users can install the PressReader app, visit the library, connect to library WiFi, and download The Globe and Mail to the app, and then they can read the newspaper at home or on the go.
Available Online

Welcome to Transparent Language Online, radically better language learning in one complete experience. Available Online
Bienvenue chez Transparent Language Online, le meilleur endroit pour apprendre une nouvelle langue. Disponible en ligne


Chinese Social Hour / 中文社交活动

Chat in Chinese about books, current events, and life in Canada. Call or visit the Service Desk for more details.

中文社交活动: 用中文聊天, 谈论书籍, 国家时事, 以及在加拿大的生活

December 10, 2024 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM

ESL Café

Newcomers and ESL learners can meet to practice their English in an informal environment with adult volunteers. In partnership with CCSYR through Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP) in York Region. For registration and information, please contact cel@ccsyr.org or 289-317-3745.

September 3, 2024 to October 29, 2024
Tuesdays 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
November 5, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
November 12, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
November 19, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
November 26, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 3, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 10, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 17, 2024 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Virtual ESL Café

Newcomers and ESL learners can practice their English in an informal online environment with adult volunteers. Sessions are hosted live on Zoom. In partnership with CCSYR through Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP) in York Region. For registration and information, please contact LSP@ccsyr.org.

November 5, 2024 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
November 19, 2024 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
December 3, 2024 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

Borrow a Community Navigator

If you're new to Canada, we can help.

Through the Library Settlement Partnership of York Region (LSPYR), we have partnered with CCSYR to provide Community Navigator services. A Community Navigator is part of a diverse team of people who can speak various languages. They can help you settle into your new environment.

Here is what Community Navigators can help with:

  • Referrals: They can guide you to community resources and services for finding work, a place to live, or registering for school.
  • Government Programs: They can provide information about government programs and applications, such as Child Tax Benefits, OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan), and immigration applications.
  • Digital Skills Coaching: They can help with computers, smart phones, apps or software.
  • Community Events: They can give you information about upcoming events in your community.

To borrow a Community Navigator, visit the CCSYR website using the button below and fill out the web form.


CCSYR Sign Up Form


In partnership with Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR)

CCSYR