Explore the world @ your library

CHICAGO - Libraries allow users to experience new cultures and explore distant countries every day. Whether it is through a book on the art of China or learning to sing a song in French during a multicultural sing-a-long, libraries really bring their users the world.

Here are just a few examples of how libraries are getting involved and helping their users explore the world around them.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Peace Corps, the Seminole Heights Library Branch of the Tampa Hillsborough County (Fla.) Public Library presented Travel Treasures @ your library: My Peace Corps Experience in Macedonia. The program featured Peace Corps volunteers sharing photos, travel stories and Macedonian foods with attendees.

The Topeka & Shawnee County (Kan.) Public Library recently hosted a virtual tour of Southern Germany titled Take a tour of Germany @ your library. The tour featured a presentation and discussion on sites and cultural differences in Germany’s Bavarian region. A list of the library’s resources and travel agents were on hand to help answer questions and assist attendees who wanted to take the next step in planning their European getaway.

Through its Explore the World @ your library the Carson City (Nev.) Public Library introduces attendees to other countries and their cultures. In its Explore the World @ your library: Ireland, Irish folk band Cíana hosted a presentation on the history of Irish immigration to the United States and its effects on traditional Irish music, along with a performance. The library has also hosted similar programs on India and Italy.

The East Regional Branch of the Durham County (N.C.) Library invites students in grades kindergarten-5 the chance to sample new languages through its Explore the World @ your library program. Each week children "visit" different countries through stories and songs and learn a few new words and games.

The @ your library logo has been translated into 32 languages, which are available to all types of libraries. To download logos visit www.ala.org/@yourlibrary/logos.  

The Campaign for America’s Libraries (www.ala.org/@yourlibrary) is ALA’s public awareness campaign that promotes the value of libraries and librarians. Thousands of libraries of all types – across the country and around the globe - use the Campaign’s @ your library® brand. The Campaign is made possible by ALA’s Library Champions, corporations and foundations.