In recent years, Hispanic Heritage Month has become a celebration of the world’s richness of Latinx cultures.  

The Library is ideal for bringing those celebrations to communities and families. There are discussions illuminating diversity, fun gatherings and entertainment, and food that brings Hispanic heritage to life. 

“Learning as much as we can about cultures in history is essential,” says Library Programming and Outreach Administrator Tynan Edwards. “The library is for everyone, and we want to celebrate everyone. By hearing stories and finding authors with diverse voices, our members can see into worlds that might not be the same as theirs.” 

• Learn more and find registration information for Hispanic Heritage Month programming and other cultural resources, including language learning, in Compass or at dcls.org. 

Hispanic Heritage Month programming includes:  

• Spanish Language Conversation Group: A year-round feature, these breezy online sessions start with icebreaker questions before leading to discussions about the world’s culture and diversity, facilitated by Dr. Hector Ortiz. October’s group celebrates by meeting in person at Alexander Family Library with a complimentary dinner from Tres Hermanos in Harrisburg.  

• Hispanic Heritage Month Reading Challenge: Readers of all ages can explore the world’s Hispanic cultures in all its voices and traditions. Dive into The Library’s rich trove of resources while logging reading and activities. There’s a QR code for an instant listing of Library resources, or search dcls.org for such terms as Hispanic, Latinx, Cuban, or Mexican. Earning three badges wins a free book and a chance to win one of two $25 gift cards or the grand prize of a $50 gift card.  

• Celebrate Hispanic Heritage! Families with children of all ages can explore Peru, Guatemala, and Mexico through games, mysteries, and making worry dolls. 5 p.m. Sept. 20 at Alexander Family Library; 10:30 a.m. Sept. 30 at East Shore Area; 5:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Kline. 

• Encanto movie and crafts: Enjoy family movie night at The Library, watching the popular Disney film and making crafts inspired by the movie. 10:30 a.m. Sept. 23 at East Shore Area.  

• Taste the World Featuring Hablamos Empanadas: Local chef Jeovanni Ramos shares his love of Latin cooking, the history of empanadas, and some of his fantastic cooking. 12:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at Kline. 

While Hispanic Heritage Month ends Oct. 15, The Library makes the celebration last even longer. During the week of Oct. 16, Storytimes will feature stories, songs, and activities that honor Hispanic cultures’ rich and vast diversity.