RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) hosted a two-day Book Exchange event on March 24 and 25, 2025, at the Round House Auditorium. The event invited students, staff, and community members to donate and exchange books of all types, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds through the shared love of reading. 

From March 3 to March 21, donations poured in. People contributed gently used books across genres and languages, from cookbooks and ESL resources to romance novels and children’s stories. Thanks to these donations, attendees were able to browse a wide selection of literature, create or expand their home libraries, and take part in a meaningful cultural exchange. 

The idea for the event came from Aigerim Kassymova and Cristina Lucar Thomasson during a lunch conversation about their love of reading and how books shape people’s lives. Aigerim recalled taking part in a book exchange in her home country, an experience that helped her discover authors and titles that became lifelong favourites. Cristina suggested creating a similar event at CNI. 

“Reading is more than just a pleasant activity,” Aigerim said. “It’s a way to enrich language, broaden horizons and foster inner growth. We hoped this event would help our clients start their Canadian home libraries, something many newcomers dream about.” 

“We thought a Book Exchange would be a great way to encourage reading, especially during ‘I Love to Read Month,’” said Michelle Johnson, one of the event organizers. “It also gives students and staff a chance to connect with one another over the stories they’ve enjoyed.” 

Reading can be a powerful companion during the early days of resettlement. It offers a quiet sense of support and familiarity, helps build language skills, and creates a bridge between cultures. For many newcomers, books can provide inspiration, comfort and a sense of belonging. 

“We hoped this event would be a small but meaningful way to encourage reading and connection. It would be wonderful if the Book Exchange became a yearly tradition at CNI,” said Aigerim. “We wanted this to be more than a book exchange. We wanted it to connect people through stories.” 

To encourage participation, everyone who donated a book was entered into a prize draw. Students received one ballot per book donated, while staff received a ballot regardless of the number of books they brought. 

Books were sorted by genre and language and displayed across tables set up inside the Round House. Clear signage helped participants navigate different sections, and volunteers were available to assist. Class visits were scheduled throughout the day and evening, giving everyone a chance to browse and select books. 

Organizers collected books from across Manitoba, with generous contributions from local libraries, RRC Polytech staff, organizations in Steinbach and Winnipeg and McNally Robinson Booksellers. Leftover books were shared with regional programs and other community partners. 

CNI continues to be a place where stories begin, and where books and the people who love them help build community.