Each month, New Westminster Family Place partners with the New Westminster Public Library to host a special drop-in program for Tigrinya-speaking families: Tigrinya Storytime. This welcoming and vibrant gathering has quickly become a beloved tradition for many families, offering a space to connect, share, and celebrate their language and culture through stories, songs, and play.
A Welcoming Space for Tigrinya Families
From the beginning, the response from families has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents frequently share how much their children look forward to storytime each month. One parent mentioned that their child has become more excited about reading since attending the sessions. Another shared how meaningful it is to hear stories in Tigrinya—a powerful way to reinforce their child’s language skills while also passing on cultural traditions.
“I’m so grateful for this program,” one parent told us. “It’s such a special way to keep our culture alive and give our children a strong sense of where they come from.”
A Positive Community Impact
Tigrinya Storytime is more than just books and songs—it’s a community-building experience. By offering culturally relevant programming and increasing access to Tigrinya books at the library, the program is creating a sense of belonging for families who speak Tigrinya in New Westminster. Families have expressed appreciation for having a space where their language and heritage are valued and celebrated.
This impact ripples beyond individual families. As more people learn about the storytime, attendance grows, and new connections are formed. The interactive nature of the sessions—complete with engaging stories, movement games, and singalongs—makes each gathering a joyful and educational experience for both children and their caregivers.
Upcoming Sessions: Stories, Songs, and Seasonal Fun
Looking ahead, upcoming Tigrinya Storytime sessions will include stories that reflect the current season, along with a fun, themed activity. Families can look forward to a playful Tigrinya version of “Simon Says” to help children learn body parts in Tigrinya. There will also be felt board stories and a cheerful goodbye song to end the session on a warm note.
Tigrinya Literacy Programs Across the Lower Mainland
For families outside of New Westminster, there are additional Tigrinya literacy programs available in the Lower Mainland:
- Guildford Library, Surrey
In partnership with Diversity Community Resources Society
15105 105 Avenue, Surrey
604-598-7369
Offered twice a month – registration required - Burnaby Public Library – Tommy Douglas Branch
In partnership with the Eritrean Community Association in Vancouver 7311 Kingsway, Burnaby
Drop-in – no registration required
Join Us!
Tigrinya Storytime is held once a month at the New Westminster Public Library, and no registration is required. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, we welcome you to drop in and share in the stories, songs, and smiles. It’s a space to connect with others, support your child’s language development, and celebrate the richness of the Tigrinya culture.
For dates and times of upcoming sessions, please see our calendar or check with the New Westminster Public Library. We can’t wait to see you there!