First Roma Library to open in Sweden, with literature in different dialects of Romanes by Romani authors and books on Romani culture in Swedish

News server TheMayor.eu reports that the first-ever Roma Library is planning to open in Malmö, the third-largest city in Sweden, a new facility to introduce readers to the world of Romani literature and cultural production that will open to the public in the autumn of 2022. The City of Malmö has thus taken an important step toward confirming its reputation as a safe haven for multiculturalism. 

There are already several sections on Roma-related content in the main library of Malmö and in other libraries throughout Sweden, but this full-fledged library of Roma literature will be the first of its kind in the country. The library will contain literature produced in different dialects of Romanes, literature originally written by Romani authors in any language, and books about the culture of the Roma in Swedish.

The literature will be acquired after consulting with individuals and organizations who have experience with cultural issues in the Romani world. “In Malmö we are going against the trend and investing in the activities of libraries, because we know that they have great significance for supporting reading and a democratic society, especially among children and youth,” said city councillor Frida Trollmyr, who is responsible for culture and recreation there.

“I am proud that we are planning to open the first Roma Library in the country, this is a unique opportunity to support the rights of Romani people and to contribute to increasing knowledge about Romani culture and history,” Trollmyr said. Romani people first arrived in Sweden about 500 years ago, and the Council of Europe estimates that there are approximately 42 500 Romani people living there today (0.46 % of the total population). 

Sweden is currently implementing its Roma Inclusion Strategy, which was elaborated for the period of 2012-2032. The strategy covers four main areas – education, employment, health and housing – as well as two extra areas:  culture including language, and the strengthening of Romani civil society. 

Responsibility for implementing the strategy largely rests with local and regional administrations in Sweden. The aim of the strategy is for Romani people to enjoy the same opportunities in life as non-Roma in Sweden.