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Diverse stories, one community: Yarra Libraries supports diverse residents

Yarra Libraries offers a variety of in-language resources and programs for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds living in Yarra. 

28 May 2025

With culturally diverse Storytimes, a wide collection of in-language books, magazines, newspapers and music in in-language, and English classes for people wanting to improve their skills, there’s something for everyone. 

Mary Thomas, program officer at Yarra Libraries says the service offers so much for people from diverse backgrounds. 

“Yarra Libraries is a great resource for people of all ages – we have programs for children, and a collection that spans Greek, Italian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Arabic and Spanish,” she says.  

For Sanaa Ali, the collage class is a great way for her to be creative in a supportive and culturally safe environment. 

"The collage class at Richmond Library provides a homey, family feel where you always feel welcome,” she says. 

“I always learn something new and interesting at the sessions and it's a great way to get together with different members of the community,” Sanaa says. 

The City of Yarra is a diverse community, with 29% of our residents born overseas. Our multiculturalism is part of what makes Yarra unique – and what makes our city such a vibrant place to live, work and visit. 

In 2025, we’re celebrating 50 years of Vietnamese migration to Yarra. We’ll be celebrating this milestone with a series of events and activities, and a commemorative artwork to be located at Victoria Street in Richmond.