Step into the Federal Way Library and you might witness a young entrepreneur recording a podcast in a soundproof studio, a class crafting greeting cards with a laser cutter, or students practicing English as a second language. Jobseekers might be getting professional headshots or résumé assistance, while others explore the innovative programs offered by the state of Washington’s King County Library System (KCLS).
Public libraries have evolved to serve diverse communities, and at KCLS, that evolution includes a commitment to inclusivity and multilingual engagement, in part through its partnership with LanguageLine.
Supporting Multilingual Communities
“More than 30% of people in King County speak other languages than English at home, with 11% speaking Spanish,” says Teresa Luengo Cid, world language coordinator at KCLS’ Equity and Social Impact department. “Libraries can provide a balance of honoring a family’s primary language and culture, and at the same time, teach them the language, technology, and other skills necessary to thrive in the U.S.”
To break language barriers and foster inclusion, KCLS provides real-time interpretation services in over 240 languages, including American Sign Language, through its collaboration with LanguageLine. Using an app on an iPad, library staff can connect patrons with interpreters who assist with interpretation in video or audio-only formats. This seamless access ensures that everyone, regardless of their linguistic background, can take advantage of library resources.
“Simply being able to communicate with someone in their native language not only helps a patron feel more welcome in the space, but it also allows librarians to connect them with services more effectively, too,” said Luengo Cid.
Bridging Educational and Digital Divides
KCLS also offers a wealth of multilingual programs to help patrons navigate life in a new country. Programs like Plaza Comunitaria, a Spanish-language initiative for adults to complete their basic education online, and bilingual Story Time and Talk Time classes, help families bridge gaps in education and language learning. Early literacy Fiestas, a Spanish workshop series, prepares children for school by focusing on bilingualism, reading, writing, and understanding the U.S. school system.
“Recent immigrants may not be familiar with how our education system works, and there’s anxiety about sending their children off to school and how to help them with homework,” Luengo Cid explains. “The public libraries can help with easing some of those anxieties.”
KCLS is equally committed to bridging the digital divide, offering hands-on learning opportunities in its Makerspaces. Funded by the KCLS Foundation, these spaces provide free access to equipment like 3D printers, recording studios, and laser cutters, helping patrons acquire valuable STEM skills.
“Turning access to emerging technology into résumé builders for college and career opportunities is where it gets really exciting,” said Jessica Hughes, public services specialist at KCLS’ Federal Way Library Makerspace.
Empowering a Multicultural Future
From helping non-English-speaking families feel at home to equipping jobseekers with digital tools, KCLS demonstrates its dedication to serving a diverse audience. The partnership with LanguageLine plays a crucial role in ensuring that every patron feels seen, heard, and supported.
With 50 libraries across King County, KCLS exemplifies how public libraries can be hubs of learning, creativity, and connection for people of all backgrounds.
We invite you to contact LanguageLine today to learn how we can help your community overcome language barriers and create inclusive opportunities just like KCLS. Together, we can empower every individual to thrive.