Casa do Livro: A New Chapter for the Brazilian Community in London

On 22nd of March, we proudly opened the doors of Casa do Livro, the first Brazilian community library in London. This milestone marks the realization of a vision that began eight years ago when there was a large book donation made to the late institution, Casa do Brasil. From that moment, the desire to create a dedicated space where Brazilian immigrants and their families could access Portuguese-language books, celebrate their cultural heritage, and foster a sense of belonging began. 

Thanks to a renewed partnership with the Wisehands Foundation, that dream is now a reality. Located in the heart of Brent, London, Casa do Livro stands as a hub for learning, connection, and cultural preservation. This space is more than a library—it is a home for our stories, our language, and our collective identity.

A mission rooted in access and inclusion

Casa do Livro is committed to making Portuguese-language literature, Brazilian culture, and language education accessible to the community. Our mission is to break down barriers to literacy and provide a welcoming space where Brazilian heritage is celebrated and shared across generations. Through our growing collection of books, engaging events, and meaningful collaborations, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence to embrace their linguistic and cultural identity.

A vision for the future

Our vision extends beyond the walls of the library. Casa do Livro aspires to become the UK’s reference for Brazilian culture and education. We envision a vibrant hub where learning, development, and belonging thrive—a place where the Brazilian community in London finds support, resources, and opportunities for growth.

A thriving cultural and educational hub

As a voluntary initiative, we are gradually building our offerings and currently provide activities during the half-term breaks, aiming to support families and promote the Portuguese language in a welcoming space:

• Early Years sing-along sessions – Engaging the youngest members of our community with music and storytelling.

• Creative writing workshops for young people – Encouraging literary expression and storytelling in Portuguese.

• Adult book clubs – Providing a space for discussions, reflection, and connection through Brazilian literature.

• Heritage language education – Supporting families in maintaining and developing their linguistic and cultural ties to Brazil.

Building strong partnerships

Casa do Livro thrives through collaboration. Being based in Brent, where there is a higher average concentration of Brazilians, we actively work with the local government to strengthen community engagement. We also maintain deep connections with Brazilian schools in the UK, particularly through the POLH-UK network, fostering bilingual and bicultural education. Additionally, we are proudly engaging with academic institutions, including a recent participation in university-led initiatives such as the Critical Connections Digital Storytelling Project with Goldsmiths, University of London.

A special thanks

This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of key partners and individuals. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency Ambassador Alfredo dos Anjos, Brazilian Ambassador to the UK, and Councillor Tariq Dar, Mayor of Brent, for their invaluable encouragement. I also deeply appreciate the support of the Association for Language Learning (ALL), particularly Maud Waret, Judith Rifeser on the occasion of the inauguration of the library as well as the prospect of future collaborations. 

Welcome to Casa do Livro!

Casa do Livro represents a new chapter for the Brazilian community in London. It is a place where books bring us together, where language rights are fought for, and where cultural identity is nurtured. We invite you to join us, explore our collection, participate in our programs, and become part of this incredible journey.

Together, we are writing a future where every Brazilian in the UK has access to their language, culture, and heritage. Welcome to Casa do Livro!

Visit us in Brent, London (NW10 7HQ) and follow our journey on @casa_do_livro_brasileiro.