Building Community One Form at a Time
How the Edmonton Public Library Is Helping Newcomers Turn Confusion Into Connection
When newly arrived immigrants in Edmonton face daunting paperwork and language barriers, the Edmonton Public Library (EPL) offers a free program to support them. Luiza Saatova, who moved to the city with her family just months ago, now spends her Saturday afternoons at EPL’s Sprucewood branch helping newcomers navigate government forms, access vital services, and find a sense of belonging in their new community.
After settling in Edmonton in September 2025, Luiza’s first stop was EPL for books for her children and services offered. Drawn by the welcoming atmosphere and supportive staff, she quickly realized the library could be more than just a resource; it could be a place to give back.
Luiza discovered the form completion volunteer program, where she could use her language skills and personal experience to help others.
“When my family was preparing to come to Canada, I figured out all the forms we needed to fill out and completed them myself,” she says. “It was challenging.”
Now she’s using that expertise to guide others through the same process. For two and a half hours every Saturday afternoon, Luiza assists up to four families or individuals. Form completion volunteers help customers complete government forms and they use their language skills to help people who may have difficulty understanding documents in English.
“When my family was preparing to come to Canada, I figured out all the forms we needed to fill out and completed them myself. It was challenging.”
One memorable experience for Luiza was with a Ukrainian family from a remote village who were fleeing the war. They hadn’t had time to prepare to move to a new country. Edmonton is the first big city they’ve lived in, and the language barrier makes things harder for them.
“I helped this family with their Canada Revenue Agency accounts and extending their work permits,” says Luiza. “The wife does not work so finances are tight. They were grateful that this service was free.
Volunteering has also helped Luiza grow personally. She’s developed stronger time management and listening skills and found a sense of connection in a new city.
“As someone new to Edmonton, I sometimes feel alone and EPL gives me a place to make connections and talk to people,” says Luiza. “I’m grateful to volunteer for an organization that supports people and the community so much.”
“To anyone thinking they may want to volunteer with EPL, go to the website and see what opportunities there are and what fits your skills and goals,” says Luiza. “I did, and it’s having a positive impact on me and those I help.”
EPL’s form completion volunteers are active at eight branches across the city. In 2025, 13 volunteers contributed over 640 hours, with Luiza herself already logging 60 hours from September 2025 until the end of Volunteer Appreciation Week on April 25, 2026. Their collective efforts are building stronger, more resilient communities — one form, one conversation and one connection at a time.