Goals and Perspectives

Research in the field of language competence has made a number of important steps in the last years. Outcomes have shown that language competence in children is developed at a very early stage, even before uttering the first words. This development advances slowly, much like a seed growing into a tree. The still small tree requires care, light, water and warmth, children need the feeling of security and linguistic input by their parents: parents should talk to the children in the language which they feel at home with and in which they have the greatest competence. Security in linguistic interaction has a positive effect on the child's entire development and strengthens identity bonds. It is important for a person to always speak in the same language (each attachment figure should whenever possible speak the same language).

 

• The child needs versatile linguistic input in its first language: verses, songs, storybooks and stories.

 

• A number of studies have shown that the mastering of the first language is an important basis to learning a second language.

 

• In addition, it has been shown that children who receive versatile linguistic input and have regular contact with stories and storybooks at a young age already will easier learn to read and write later on. This proves that learning to read starts way before alphabetization in school.

 

• In order to foster a language in its variety, to continuously increase and firm the vocabulary, books are an appropriate means, especially for children.

 

• The intercultural libraries react to this new knowledge and requirements and offer books in the diverse languages of the foreign-language population and their children. The offer consists of books and media for children and adolescents, but for adults as well as parents are reading role models for children.

 

• The intercultural libraries make a priceless contribution to the language and reading competence of children growing up in two or three languages.

 

• The intercultural libraries make a substantial contribution to integration. The high value of the culture and language of people of foreign societies in the intercultural libraries creates a feeling of being at home and fosters self-confidence. To appreciate a language means to appreciate the respective culture as well.

 

• The managers of the intercultural libraries and of the umbrella organisation are aware of their important role and strive to continuously deepen their knowledge in further education.

 

• To guarantee the continuity and development of the libraries, the umbrella association ABWBS seeks to enhance their public presence. The employees, mostly working on a volunteer basis, experience appreciation for their important work and their knowledge is passed on.

 

• ABWBS strives to seek the dialogue with all libraries and plan joint activities whenever possible.