Kaikki Kotona Hanke/Project implemented in 3 Finland libraries by Laima Šalkauskienė

P Y H Ä J O K I R A A H E S I I K A J O K I I Kaikki Kotona 2023 Hanke

INTRODUCTION

Since the immigration has been growing constantly, the preparation of the regional integration plan was completed in the fall of 2021, and during its preparation, the region's libraries found that it is necessary to develop services and functions. Despite the different situations, the municipalities had a strong will to work together in promoting integration and inclusion.

According to Section 6 of the Library Act, the promotion of social and cultural dialogue is essential part of the work of libraries.

Objectives

The goal of the project was to increase, develop and implement library services for immigrants The project explored the needs and wishes of the target group, on the basis of which functions applicable to libraries of different sizes are built. The capabilities of the human resources to offer and develop services suitable for the target group were improved by organizing training related to multicultural library activities and organizing events. Libraries took into account the needs of immigrants better than before, and events that strengthened cultural dialogue were launched in each library

Plan of action

A project research was done and different operating models were offered as an example of the multiculturalism in the libraries of the metropolitan area, without forgetting to listen to the wishes and needs of immigrants in their own area. The project maped, contacted and built a purposeful multidisciplinary cooperation network. Both regional authorities and third and fourth sector operators were invited to the cooperation network. The project initiated international conference in which was meaningful for the project libraries and other librarians to participate.

Various events and occasions (e.g. language cafés, yoga&meditation sessions, guided tour, workshops, board games and online quizzesgames nights) were launched. a collaboration with other institutions, NGO was developed, the local library staff and various parties working on the integration of immigrants participated as well. The activities were developed to experience participation in such a way that the participant could feel that he is active not only an object of the activity.

At the beginning of the project the research of libraries services has been done in order to find out the needs of immigrants and what other services improvements should be done at the libraries.

Three reseaches have been done in order to separate the results and identify the needs specifically in Pyhäjoki, Siikajoki and Raahe regions.

The survey has been shared in different ways: face-to-face, scanning QR code, sending the link.

Total number of participants: 65 respondents (8 in Pyhäjoki, 45 in Raahe, 12 in Siikajoki). The research took 2 weeks.

The research results have been presented to the librarians.

Project research results

https://prezi.com/view/OVrb4CKogGtzrlHWQ2Yg/

Project

research

Tervetuloa kirjastoon! (Welcome to the library!)

The aim of the meeting – was to welcome immigrants to the living area, and discuss the possibilities of integration into society by living a more active life. Also, improve the library's services for immigrants, and introduce the services the library can provide At the same time, it is important to know the immigrants' education, and hobbies in order to develop possibilities to share their experiences and skills. In this way, they can feel more useful and less isolated In case they have a chance to show their abilities which can lead to a permanent job position. Also, some ideas about possible meetings such as: the ”Share&Care” club (related to volunteering), T&G club (Arts and crafts), Multicultural fans club (for discussions and talks related to the same interests – movies, books traditions and etc.), Children’s club (for children where they could spend their time meaningfully)

The time period is also dedicated to providing help for the ones, who need help getting a library card, using the books reservation system, and how it works They are introduced to library services and spaces.

Meeting at Pyhäjoki library

Participants: Heikki Lahnaoja (kirjasto ja kulttuurijohtaja), Laima Salkauskiene (hanketyöntekijä) local immigrants (2 people).

The description of immigrants’ situation in Pyhäjoki region. Since the Hanhikivi project has been shut down, some immigrant families moved to bigger towns or even to other countries. A few families are still staying in Pyhäjoki but have little interest to participate actively. Although, some ideas could be implemented such as workshops and not formal meetings to improve the Finnish language and find out more about Finnish traditions and customs. Another serious reason which complicates the possibilities of active participation is the distance these people live from the library and have no how to reach the center. Also, some immigrants just keep silent or feel tired after daytime issues.

The conclusion. The workshops could be organized if we found some Finnish volunteers who would agree to teach some simple homemade crafts that do not require specific types of equipment and at the same time invite some immigrants to share their traditional arts and crafts. Overall, such meetings could serve as a perfect opportunity to practice the Finnish language and improve open and friendly relationships and integration into the local community. After workshops, an exhibition could be arranged at the local library.

Meeting at Raahe library

Participants: Anna Kippola (erikoiskirjastonhoitaja), Kirsi Korhonen (palvelupäällikkö), Laima Salkauskiene (hanketyöntekijä) and local immigrants (5 people).

The description of immigrants’ situation in Raahe region. Raahe is the center for the majority of immigrants There is a wide range of people from different countries like Ukraine, Russia, Afghanistan, Lithuania, Iran, Turkey, Columbia, Japan and etc The main issue for these people is to learn the Finnish language and find a permanent job Within the conversation, people expressed their will and wish to be useful, productive, and active while living in Finland. They do not seek to live only because of financial support or benefit, they would like to get a job even if it were unqualified. Furthermore, they would like to visit museums, and historical places, and find out more about Finnish traditions and customs.

Although they understand that the library is more related to cultural and educational support. They introduced their educational background (accountant, English language teacher and professional photographer, engineer, builder, project manager, yoga instructor); hobbies, interests such as sports, volleyball, music, concerts and etc. They admitted, that studying Finnish only twice a week or attending classes is not enough, they would prefer to practice Finnish in reality, which could improve their spoken Finnish and help to overcome the fear of speaking in Finnish. Moreover, a few of them would love to teach people English or Russian languages.

The conclusion. The professional photographer was encouraged to plan a personal exhibition of his photos/work of art which could be portable and exhibited in other libraries. Also, the first ”Jutellaan Suomeksi-Kahvit” will be arranged in the last week of October. The idea to create a web of ”Tandem language learning” (When two people teach each other their native language) will be considered as well.

Meeting at Siikajoki library

Participants: Tuula Kuoppamäki (kirjasto ja kulttuurijohtaja), Katariina Tenhunen (library worker), Laima Salkauskiene (hanketyöntekijä), and local immigrants (3 people).

The description of immigrants’ situation in the Siikajoki region.

The people who came to the meetings shared their daily life experiences how they feel and what are their wishes regarding the project idea. Siikajoki immigrant families were settled in Siikajoki after they came to Finland. After some time of living, they have been informed about the move to bigger towns where they could have more opportunities to find a job or could get more possibilities for their children. The families who have children are better informed about the help for immigrants, while the ones who haven't, feel the lack of effective contact with the local community In that case, they experience some kind of isolation as well A lot of immigrants attend Finnish language courses at local schools Although they have no more activities after courses. They agreed, that the library could be a place for gathering and having some activities altogether. It could help them to become more integrated into the local community. They would like to find out more about Finnish traditions and customs, and practice the Finnish language in real situations, and daily life.

Siikajoki area is a calm and safe place for immigrants

The conclusion. One librarian has offered to join her children’s theater club for the age of 0 – 6 children. The offered club's idea will be discussed among the immigrant community and the decision will be made Overall, such meetings-clubs could serve as a perfect opportunity to practice the Finnish language and improve open and friendly relationships and integration into the local community. The clubs could be run by Finnish people or immigrants themselves. The next meeting will be held at the end of October.

Jutellaan Suomeksi-Kahvit (Let's discuss in Finnish meetings)

To practice the Finnish language in the company The meetings were intended for everyone who was constantly learning or maintaining their Finnish language skills Finnish native speakers were also welcome as volunteers

The meetings started with the introduction of each participant in order to find out their Finnish language skills. Participants were able to express their expectations on what were their wishes and needs. They mentioned, that they would like to have more practice in different forms. Immigrants are having only about 3 hours of Finnish language learning organized by the Red Cross center and “Raahe Opisto” only a few of them study with Te-toimisto contracts The participants’ language skills are at the beginner level but they have a high motivation to study and later on expect to find a job.

Participants practiced oral skills and worked in pairs and groups. Different tasks encouraged them to work effectively and enrich their vocabulary. They described their favorite photos from the phones, practiced writing skills by answering questions about their dream or daily weekdays

The topics were about the Finnish tradition to drink coffee which was general for all participants to share personal thoughts about coffee traditions in their countries using their own “words bank”. The discussion was active and all participants could improve their speaking skills a lot. Other Finnish traditions like the customs of hospitality, personal family parties and etc were discussed as well.

Just before the 6th of December, when Finland celebrates its Independence Day, the topic of the meeting was to talk about Independence days in other countries

Practitioners were encouraged to use the Finnish language and try to ask if they have some concerns. The atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming which created positivity and selfconfidence. A few immigrants from Siikajoki joined the meeting and there were a couple of Finnish language native speakers who were helping those in need. Also, a new local immigrant came to practice as well

Participants had a chance to check their knowledge about Finland as a country, its traditions, cuisine, and famous buildings; about Pyhäjoki, Raahe and Siikajoki regions The quizzes were informative and provided in three languages. Although, a lot of questions and answers were only in Finnish which made participants improve their Finnish language skills.

Raahe library

Jakaminen on välittämistä! Sharing is Caring yoga&meditation sessions

The aim of the meetings – was to provide some emotional help by practicing yoga and meditation The research results revealed that immigrants feel a lack of activities and need some emotional help. Since they have a low level of Finnish language skills it is difficult to participate in clubs that are provided using the Finnish language.

Participants shared feedback about yoga's benefits, and how it helps them to relieve in such hard times In the beginning, participants enjoyed practicing yoga, breathing, and meditation minutes. Then, they shared their concerns and daily issues they face on. All of them agreed that because of the rural area they live in, at least something dedicated to them is a splendid thing The most sensitive moment was when they talked about their life in Ukraine, how they miss their native land, and home even if they know that all the houses in their town are demolished.

The meetings were full of positive energy and a cozy atmosphere. The participants were grateful to Olesia for such help After yoga, participants always had tea and cozy conversations about how they feel, and how their life is going here.

Siikajoki Library

Olesia agreed to provide yoga sessions for Siikajoki immigrants and share her experience in meditation. The meetings started with the introduction of yoga and meditation benefits, Olesia also shared her experience of how it helped her to overcome personal obstacles and survived her hard times. After a yoga and meditation session. participants had café time The participants were very excited and expressed their expectations to meet once again

Kansainvälinen Lautapeli ilta International Board Games Night

The aim of the events – was to welcome immigrants and local residents, and develop the possibilities of immigrants' integration into society by living more active life.

International Board Games evenings were attended by immigrant adults and local youth. The games were provided in Finnish and participants played in groups. Attendants were able to use different languages but Finnish was a common one and it went very well. Two Filipino men joined the group and that was a great opportunity to improve the Finnish language for participants.

In the evening people introduced themselves and shared their experiences about living in Finland

At the same time, they shared their countries' traditions and customs. These cozy conversations made a great friendship and newcomers were invited to join another “Let’s read together!” group on Tuesdays.

Participants had conversations with Finnish woman who came to the event and in that way, at least three immigrants could improve their Finnish language skills as well Also, some ideas on how to improve such events and how to attract people's interest to participate were also discussed.

Surprisingly, Board Games are very popular in Finland, one of the main leisure activities in a long, dark snowy winter time but still, some prejudices might be alive

Such constructive meetings encourage people to create positive attitudes and tolerance of different cultures and nations Moreover, people use the Finnish language which is essential to a more successful future in Finland. Unfortunately, such evenings are attended more by immigrants than local Finnish people. The feedback after the evening was very positive. Attendants clearly expressed the will to participate in such evenings

Pyhäjoki library

International Conference "Sharing Good Practices"

The aim of the event was to share the experience and practice of specialists, working with immigrants, enriching the libraries' service, and increasing the professional competence of the library staff.

The conference had a clear schedule. At the beginning of the conference participants

were welcomed to the event, introduced to the program and the project “Kaikki Kotona” which is implemented in Pyhäjoki, Raahe, and Siikajoki libraries. Later on, the six speakers shared their experiences and gave multiple examples of different events and activities organized for immigrants. Obviously, the main topic was the integration of refugees from Ukraine. Although a few speakers analyzed the importance of integration for immigrants from other countries, too.

After the presentations, the participants had a questions/answers session and could address the questions to the speakers. There was a very informative and useful discussion time for the whole participants.

The online international conference was held between two countries' librarians: Lithuania and Finland but worth to be continued in the future. Both listeners and speakers appreciated the possibility to share their experiences and spread their knowledge and ideas since the immigrants’, refugees issue is very relevant to European countries.

Pyhäjoki, Raahe, Siikajoki libraries

Opastettu kävelykierros Wanhassa Raahessa Guided Tour in Old Raahe

The aim of the meeting was to introduce Finland's history, tell about the traditions and customs of Finnish life, and develop tolerance, friendliness, and respect for different nations The guided tour was organized for the immigrants living in Pyhäjoki, Raahe, and Siikajoki regions. The meeting started at the historical local but very significant and well-known restaurant “Langin Kauppahuone”. The host introduced to immigrants important facts about Raahe and Finland's history, famous people who lived in Raahe, and why this town was so famous and influential in the past.

Visitors could taste the coffee and traditional Finnish biscuits, admired the historical hotel which reflects the past life of Finnish people

The group were walking around the Old town of Raahe and enjoyed the stories of the guide Some architectural decisions were really surprising and made an impression on the immigrants. The guided tour was useful and exciting Immigrants were surprised and curious about the different facts of Finland, They were happy to get such a possibility which is very important while you are living in a foreign country The feedback was very positive and welcomed by immigrants. It really helped to overcome some stereotypes, to understand the behavior of local people, respect their customs and avoid prejudices.

The possibility to find out more about the country's traditions and customs develop closer, and more tolerant relationships between immigrants and locals Moreover, the guided tour made one shy immigrant reveal her language skills as an interpreter.

Pyhäjoki, Raahe, Siikajoki immigrants

Ystävänpäiväkorttipaja/Valentine's day card, Himmelipaja workshops

The St. Valentineäs day card workshop was very informative and useful. The teacher explained, the real meaning of this day which is more focused on friends and friendly relationships among people, and communities. She introduced different techniques on how to make St. Valentine’s cards from recycled material or material which can be found at home. The participants could make their own cards using these techniques. At the same time, the workshop was mainly in the Finnish language which was simple and understandable for immigrants, It helped to feel self-confident in learning the language and understanding.

At the beginning of the workshop teacher introduced the tradition of Himmeli in Finland. She presented different artworks, pictures, and techniques of how the basic elements are created. The participants were very excited to start creating. At first, it seemed a bit complicated, but the teacher was very helpful, attentive, took care each of participant, helped in need. The group of participants was not big but it was even better because Himmeli's techniques were new for everyone although some very nice works were created. Participants could try different materials, create more than one example, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere.

Such kinds of meetings are useful for better understanding and making friendly relationships among immigrants. Common interests and hobbies unite people who are like-minded and develop their skills in the future. Participants expressed joy and excitement for the possibility to try Himmeli techniques what was unknown and seemed hard to learn. It was a great opportunity to enrich knowledge about Finnish traditions and culture. Moreover, this is a great chance to invite children to the workshops.

Pyhäjoki, Raahe, Siikajoki immigrants

Peli verkossa/The "BRAINSTORM" quiz-games online

The aim of the online game - this was an online game for people who enjoy history, geography, art, and interesting facts about the world. The game is based on intellectual background and encourages people to train their brains. Unite people with a common interest, develop tolerance, and share their own's experiences and intelligence.

The idea came from the experience with Board Games Night. Some immigrants do not participate for several reasons: personal priorities and attitude, the distance people live from the event place and have no possibility to come to the meeting, the limited time (for traveling to and back home), inconvenient time or date, attitude, that this game is only for immigrants but not for the whole community.

The way to have fun online is very popular these days, and has numeral advantages of such as games: it is an eco-friendly way to organize meetings, also, people can participate with their cameras off if they do not want to be recognized, it also saves your time, expense but gives an opportunity to meet people with the same interests. The hidden purpose is here as well: it might help to unite communities (immigrants and locals), make friendships, and promote tolerance and respect which can lead to the “BRAINSTORM” games into face-to-face meetings at the library. People are encouraged to get interested in different things, develop and enrich their knowledge, and also, what is really important: to practice the Finnish language which is used in creating the quizzes.

The first quiz questions were only about Finland, its traditions, national things, cuisine, customs and etc. People enjoyed the game very much and were happy to find out more about Finland that they had not known before. They also had a great discussion and shared their attitudes toward the country they live. The second game-quiz was about “Pyhäjoki, Raahe, Siikajoki” regions: historical places, dates, monuments, traditions, customs, and etc.

It is a way of entertainment and the possibility to discuss and share own experiences.

Raahe, Siikajoki Immigrants Pyhäjoki,

Project actions

Some actions were organised within the project time as well.

Since the majority of immigrants are Ukrainians the library staff decided to develop the library services specifically for immigrants who study online.

Raahe library decided to use the idea from previous International Conference experience and created a safe space for immigrants children who are educated by Ukrainian teachers from Ukraine to learn and study online at the library It is a permanent service provided at the library

Pyhäjoki library invited people to join the action and bring used cans for making candles.

Obviously, the library attracts many customers and the information spread at the library can reach more people than in other places. At the same time it is one of the ways to support and express good will, to show ephathy to society.

Pyhäjoki, Raahe Communities

The more friends you have in different countries - the fewer conflicts and wars will be in the world.

You won’t dare to fight against your friend you found and loved - the one who helped you in trouble!

"Immigrants Identity: here I am"

Description of the idea

The purpose of the exhibition is to decrease prejudices and develop tolerance, respect, and friendliness among the local community and immigrants.

Nowadays, people are migrating constantly for different reasons: religion, gender, skin color, attitudes to different issues discrimination, lack of democracy, or even war. The majority of people are looking for a safer place, better education for their children, better social security, etc. Despite the critical situation in their country, it happens, that after they come to a foreign country, they have to start their life from the beginning, a total of zero.

Moreover, emigration makes them prove again what they are capable of, their education and experience are less worth it unless they learn the local language. Time flies by and they are losing their skills and ability to work, struggling while learning the national language for a long time.

Although it seems a bit confusing when there are many exhibitions related to immigrants around the world, they represent mainly sad stories. This exhibition should bring some positivity, confidence, and light to the life of immigrants or personalities.

The exhibition has its emotional and social purposes: break out the stereotypes, allow local communities to recognize similarities or find some differences between them and foreigners and accept them, develop friendliness and respectful behavior toward both sides, or express one's emotions and feelings as an immigrant.

Idea's description in Finnish language Idea's description in Russian language

Relevance of Immigrants' Identity

Since the begining of the project "Kaikki Kotona"some meaningful and effective steps have been done The immigrants and refugees who joined to the events and meetings could experience possitiveness, friendship, tolerance and non-discriminational atmosphere among the participants It took time to reveal the talents and skills all these people have and encaurage them to share their experience and abilities Participants shared their interests and hobbies through which amazing things were found Encauragement to share their talents and skills could help to introduce the immigrants identity Despite the difference in nationality, language, religion or beliefs people are educated, skillful, smart and intelligent persons.

Some immigrants agreed to share their experience and reveal immigrant's identity, introduce themselves through art, craft and other things they are interested in.

MAZDAK

"A few photos presenting my line of work and profession I tried to include some pictures of backstage while I am working, so maybe it would be a helpful for viewers to understand who is behind the pictures".

"Immigrant's Identity: "Immigrant's Identity: here I am " here I am "

Here are two quotes from movies that I like:

"Allwehavetodecideiswhattodowithtimethatisgiventous" Gandalf,LordoftheRings

"YouunderstandmethesamewayIunderstandyou"

SafintoMadeleine

NoTimetoDie

Elena

Handmade carpets

Paintings

Collection&Interests

Irina Crafts

Natalia

Crafts/cross stitch embroidery paintings

Liubov

Paintings

Participants' feedback about project "Kaikki Kotona"

"When Laima called me and offered this project, I was very surprised that they were interested in me as a Yoga Teacher of Kundalini Yoga, because I had just started to transmit this teaching not long ago. Of course, I agreed! And for me it was the most unforgettable experience and the opportunity to get one step closer to my dream, it's so wonderful. And so we began to work, Laima organized for me a group of excellent, sensitive, kind, gentle Women in Sikajoki. This project showed me that nothing is impossible, you just need to trust the Universe and you will receive those opportunities and those people that you need at this moment in time!"

"For the first time I met Laima in Ruukki library. There was a yoga lesson with an instructor, very nice woman from Ukraine, Olesia. We practiced every week for about 2 months. Yoga lessons turned out to be very practical and useful. It is very remarkable that all women attending to this event could practice not only physical exercises, but also had a pleasure time talking about some issues and problems, sharing their experience. I am glad that Olesia has a lot of people who want to continue practicing in yoga in Raahe. Continuing talking about that Project, I'd like to highlight the most memorable events on my opinion:

* a meeting on 19 December organized in Raahe. There was a professional guide, who acquainted us with a history of old Raahe (Brahe);

* a meeting in Raahe library for immigrants studying beautiful Finnish language. There were few Finnish teachers helping us to understand and love it:

* Useful and nice meeting for Valentine's Day card workshop;

* Brainstorm games hold on during Finnish language meeting firstly and therefore had a continue by online. It were made by Laima on three languages (Finnish, English and Russian). Everybody liked that game. It is so enomously memory. Thank you!"

FeedbackinRUS

"It's no secret that many people have difficulty adapting to a new place. The language barrier, the difficulties of organizing life in a new country, the lack of a social circle become a real test for immigrants, so it is important to be able to get together, communicate, share problems, or just have a positive leisure time.

Fortunately, libraries in Finland are places of active visits, which makes it possible to organize joint meetings between immigrants and Finnish residents permanently residing in these municipalities. It is not always easy for adults to open up, but it is possible to get people to communicate.

As part of the project, meetings, language events, and creative workshops were held in libraries. People received emotional relief and learned new things, new acquaintances appeared.

The relevance of such projects can hardly be overestimated.

I would like to express my gratitude to Laima and other inspirers of the project for their enthusiasm.

Thank you!"

"The Kaikki kotona Siikajoki project is a very important event for me. Communication with new people. Exchange of experience, news, knowledge, it helps and gives strength not to despair. I would like to continue.Communication with friendly fills people with positive energy. Thank you for wonderful meetings.

Sincerely,"

"Kiitos mahdollisuudesta olla mukana näin upeassa projektissa. "Kaikki kotona" -projektin ansiosta tapasin uusia ihmisiä Ukrainasta, Venäjältä ja Iranista. Opin paljon Suomesta, suomalaisten perinteistä, elämäntavoista ja harrastuksista. Suomalaisiin tutustuminen auttoi minua ymmärtämään paremmin paikallisia tapoja, ihmisten tapoja, kulttuurisia ja kansallisia erityispiirteitä. Haluaisin tämän projektin jatkuvan, koska se auttaa ihmisiä sopeutumaan uuteen maahan, löytämään ystäviä ja ymmärtämään kykyjään. Kiitosten kera!"