Residents can enjoy a series of cultural, educational and artistic events from the Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.
During the month of May, all 12 LBPL locations will host free events under the theme of “A Bouquet of Cultures,” in recognition of the cultural diversity of AAPI communities.
“We invite community members to join us in these month-long celebrations in recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a statement from the City.
The month-long series will include performances from AAPI performing arts troupes, workshops led by local artist Stacy Wong and a mini-Zen Garden crafting session.
For the third straight year, the opening event of the LBPL’s AAPI Heritage Month series will be the Festival of AAPI Books (FAB) on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library.
This literary-themed event will feature book discussions and author readings from more than 15 AAPI authors, including renowned authors Kaylin Melia George and Jenny Liao.
The keynote discussion for FAB will be led by Pulitzer Prize winner Viet Thanh Nguyen and Rome Prize in Literature winner Gina Apostol, which will be followed by a book signing. Attendees will also get the chance to browse through books and treats from several local literary vendors, such as Bel Canto Books, We are Sunraised and Kubo LB.
“As we honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we stand proud to offer programs that showcase the vibrancy and richness of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures,” said Library Director Cathy De Leon in a statement from the Long Beach Public Library. “This month is not only about celebrating heritage but also about fostering connections and understanding within our community.”
The full list of upcoming Long Beach Public Library events for AAPI Heritage Month can be found on the library’s events calendar at lbpl.org. For more information, residents are advised to contact the LBPL at 562-570-7500 or visit their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
