Cumbria County Council's role in providing support for migrant workers and helping to build community cohesion has been held up by the Audit Commission as an example of national good practice.
The Crossing Borders report has been drawn up to help local authorities manage changes brought about by migrant workers moving to their area, by understanding what is going on locally and developing appropriate services.
Cumbria's innovative use of the county's libraries to help build good community relations and provide support and advice for migrant workers has been spotlighted by the Audit Commission in a series of case studies accompanying the report.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of migrant workers from Eastern Europe who are helping to plug gaps in the county's labour market
The county council is using libraries in Cumbria to help address some of the issues migrant workers face including a shortage of information, difficulties accessing services and support, and problems arising from a lack of interaction with local communities.
Libraries now stock a wide selection of foreign language books and DVDs, and more internet access has been provided in branches.
The county council's Multicultural Unit has also set up outreach services at libraries in Windermere and Maryport where migrant workers can come on certain days of the week for help and advice.
Libraries have also been holding regular events where the local community can learn more about Eastern European culture through special displays and an increase in the number of books about migrant workers' countries.
Councillor Elizabeth Mallinson, Cumbria County Council's cabinet member responsible for equality, said: "I am delighted that the county council's work in supporting migrant workers and helping to build community cohesion through the innovative use of our Library Service has been recognised as part of this important Audit Commission report.
"Migrant workers make an important contribution to Cumbria, both socially and economically.
"The county's migrant workforce is ethnically and culturally diverse. It includes the highly educated and skilled, many that are motivated but have no formal qualifications, and people who come here as seasonal workers.
"The county council is committed to making sure migrant workers and local communities receive the support they need."
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Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337
Notes
The Cumbrian case study in the Crossing Borders report can be found on the Audit Commission website at http://www.audit-commission.gov.uk/migrantworkers/cs/casestudy11.asp