For the project, we (NCW) selected and commissioned acclaimed poets George Szirtes and Marjorie Lotfi to write two original poems. These have been translated into Arabic, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, and Ukrainian – some of the most widely-spoken languages in Norfolk. Beautifully designed postcards with these poems and their translations can be found in each of Norfolk’s 47 libraries, for visitors to read and take home.

When asked about his experience working on the original poem, George Szirtes said:

‘Having been a refugee from Hungary as a child in 1956 and having received a warm welcome in England I feel it both an obligation and pleasure to help where I can and in what way I best can. Since I am a first and foremost a poet, poetry is my most natural and ready form. The words ‘Home is what you’re given when without’ seem true to me.’

Marjori Lotfi said:

‘What a thrill to be asked to write poem of welcome, as someone who several times has arrived in a new country as both a migrant and a refugee. In my poem, the metaphor of trees points to how we interconnect, newcomers and those who have been here for generations. My hope is that it will also underscore how much we have to offer one another.’

Library visitors are invited to respond to these poems on blank postcards with their own words of welcome and post them in the collection boxes provided. Whether it’s a poem, short anecdote, simple reflection or even a picture, any contributions will be added to a growing collection that celebrates Norfolk as a place of inclusivity, belonging, and community.

Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships at Norfolk County Council, said:

‘Norfolk libraries have always been a place of sanctuary for local people and migrant communities. Along with many places in the county, they are an established safe and welcoming place, and we hope being involved in this project helps to spread that message to our multi-cultural community.’