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About Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library
Artwork
at Biblioteca
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The Biblioteca Latinoamericana is a citywide resource for Spanish
language materials with bilingual, bi-cultural staff. In addition
to strong Spanish collections of Latin American history, culture,
and literature, the Biblioteca also features Chicano studies, a
special health collection in Spanish, materials on Latin America
in English, and fiction in English by Latino authors. There is a
large children’s collection in Spanish, including a special
bilingual section and a teen area as well. Spanish language magazines
and newspapers are available, and flags from Latin American countries
can be checked out.
Biblioteca was founded in 1974 by a group of mothers who wanted
to promote Latino culture and the Spanish language while ensuring
success in English, and began checking out books in Spanish at Sacred
Heart Church. After receiving a state grant in 1976, the Biblioteca
affiliated with San José Public Library. It was first housed
near Sacred Heart and then moved into the former Woodrow Wilson
High School cafeteria next to the Center for Employment Training
in 1979. In 1988, Los Amigos
de la Biblioteca (Friends of the Library) was reactivated and
community members organized for a new Biblioteca. This culminated
in the construction of the current 15, 000 square foot showplace
building which opened on November 20, 1999. Original artwork by
local artist, Pilar Aguero adorns the walls and provides a glimpse
of the beauty of Latino culture. The outdoor patio features a beautiful
fountain created by South Pasadena artist, Elsa Flores.
Biblioteca is a vital community resource that offers culturally
specific programming for all ages throughout the year, literary
events including the hosting of prominent Latino authors, and a
Spanish book discussion group, Conversando
Sobre Libros. Special resources include a community
room and a computer lab with 12 Internet access computers.
Biblioteca staff collaborate with the staff of the adjoining Washington
United Youth Center and other neighborhood and community based organizations.
The Biblioteca Latinoamericana has attracted attention beyond San
José as an example of what is possible in the provision of
library services to native and immigrant communities with lifelong
learning needs.
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This page last updated April 20, 2007 by the Web Team
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