Hispanics and Lifelong learning: Libraries at Crossroads? By Innocent Awasom and Minerva Alaniz Texas Tech University Libraries April 28 th 2007 April 28 th 2007

Outline Background to the Pilot study Lubbock Library System …plus Libraries and user Population Nature of Collection, Programs and Activities Community Outreach Lifelong learning and impact High Points / Observations

Background to the study Libraries have traditionally been and remain the place where people of all ages seek and find information, develop the love of reading, advance the pursuit of knowledge while enhancing their quality of life. Peoples University

Article 1 - ALA Bill of rights Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves and a persons right to use the library should not be denied because of origin, age, background or views.

Militant Librarian? NO! ALA advocating users right to read freely without government interference or surveillance. The immigration saga with people rounded up in cities across the country. Any impact on library usage in our immediate community? Libraries contribution to lifelong learning! Pilot study sheds light and more next Hispanic conference when hopefully the immigration debate would be over!

Lubbock Library System.. Plus Plus a host of academic libraries which the entire community unfortunately treat with fear combined with respect (awe) oblivious of the fact that it is open to the public as well!

Nature of Collection, Programs and Activities Both print and electronic with one of the best graphic novel collection in the country! Unfortunately no distinct Spanish collection and few titles shelved with other titles Home School collection Literacy Department ( ESL, GED) TTU Ad. Education alliance Computer Technology courses – internet safety, productivity software, online predator education Meeting room availability, Day care for moms attending programs within (ESL, GED) Free Tax preparation, Home buying seminars, Credit management, Health fairs and seminars

Community Outreach Where Cultural and Information Literacy meet. Black History Month - One nation we stand Hispanic Book week – Cinco de Mayo 5 th May, Salsa lesson, Ballet Folklorico Children's programs seasonal (Easter and Xmas), Story hour (Bilingual?) Share a book with a child – story hour for parents (moms) and children Monthly Book Discussion Club Genealogical Society with friends of the library Daycare, Nursing homes,

High points / Observations Lifelong learning and impact across the age spectrum Multimedia instruction and use. Major attraction for teens Cultivation of the love of reading and quest for knowledge Poor usage not a result of immigration phobia but lack of awareness of available resources.

Because of seeming disconnect between community needs and services provided Need for more community outreach to get their input so as to use limited resources to get needed materials not stocked unused material on the shelves. Need for bilingual librarians with mastery of Spanish, English and cross cultural competency More funding to purchase culturally relevant materials More synergy between library administration and community leaders for better environmental scanning, needs assessment. With improved services and information literate citizens we get a better nation and a more promising tomorrow!

Thank you! Gracias! A Sante Sana Questions?