The population that uses the Arlington Heights Public Library represents more than 22 countries.
The library tries to meet the diverse needs of its patrons by providing English literacy classes and a good-size collection of books in foreign languages. But it also has reaped many benefits because of that diversity, according to Gaylia Grant, coordinator of adult literacy.
During November, for example, the library celebrated its annual ethnic fest with three programs presented on Polish, Japanese and French culture that featured adults enrolled in the literacy program.
Claude Charlier, a French chef who has a catering business, demonstrated cooking. Members of the Japanese community presented a tea ceremony, explained how a kimono is worn and talked about other aspects of Japanese culture in a program students Noriko Maekawa and Mariko Morita coordinated.
Witold Pawlikowski, an Arlington Heights resident and library supporter, arranged a Polish Fest that featured folk dances by Boy Scout and Girl Scout ensembles.
The literacy students assist the library in other ways, too. One Vietnamese and one Hungarian student have been hired as staff members. Others have helped with translations as well as with ordering and cataloging foreign language materials.
Judy Moskal, program coordinator for youth, said this ethnic diversity is a reflection of what’s happening at libraries nationwide.
“The American Library Association had a program called `Against Borders,”‘ which dealt with multicultural issues, she said. “It is a very hot topic.”
Although the month-long fest is over, the library continues to sponsor programs throughout the year focusing on various cultures, said Caryl Mobley, coordinator of public services programming. “In April, we will have a Native American program,” she said, to raise cultural awareness of local residents.
