Explore Latin American Culture at Long Beach Public Library’s 6th Annual Vida Latina Series

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - The Long Beach Public Library has announced the return of its 6th Annual Vida Latina, taking place from Sept. 17 through Oct. 12, 2024. The Vida Latina series honors Latin American heritage through a dynamic array of free events at all Library locations, showcasing the rich and vibrant culture of Latin American communities.

"Vida Latina is a testament to the vibrant and diverse cultural fabric of our community," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "This celebration not only honors the rich heritage of Latin American cultures but also brings our community together through shared experiences and learning."

Building on the success of the past five years, this year's Vida Latina will feature an exciting blend of activities for adults, teens and kids. Beloved classics such as Lotería, Cuentos y Cantos Storytime and the Vida Latina Celebration will return and be joined by the innovative and empowering new offerings highlighted below. More information about this year's Vida Latina is available on the Vida Latina webpage at lbpl.org.

Hilos de Sueños y Recuerdos: Sew It Goes
This open lab series will offer participants ages 12 and older help, support and inspiration on their sewing projects, while providing them an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative community quilt. The following labs are open to all skill levels and will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at various Library locations:

• Saturday, Sept. 14 at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library (5870 Atlantic Ave.)
• Saturday, Sept. 21 at Harte Neighborhood Library (1595 W. Willow St.)
• Saturday Sept. 28 at Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W. Broadway)
• Thursday, Oct. 10 at Billie Jean King Main Library
  • This event will also feature guest artist Bonny Jackson
• Saturday, Oct. 12 at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library

Financial Literacywith Corissa Hernandez
Corissa Hernandez, a first-generation Latina, entrepreneur, financial advisor and Los Angeles local will present the following financial literacy workshop series with live interpretations for adults ages 18 and older:

• Your Relationship with Money
  • Thursday, Sept. 19 at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library from 4 to 5:30 p.m.
• Building Generational Wealth
  • Saturday, Sept. 21 at Burnett Neighborhood Library (560 E. Hill St.) from noon to 1:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Mark Twain Neighborhood Library (1401 E. Anaheim St.) from 5 to 6 p.m.
• Mujeres, Mocktails & Money
  • Saturday, Oct. 5 from at Billie Jean King Main Neighborhood Library from noon to 2 p.m.

Power of Poetry- Featured Author Talk
Award-winning author Aida Salazar will share her acclaimed new book, Ultraviolet, in an interactive poetry experience with the Long Beach Youth Poet Ambassadors. Attendees will participate in an engaging session of writing and conversation and a mini poetry workshop and community slam. This event will be held at Billie Jean King Main Library on Tuesday, Oct. 1, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and is suitable for ages 10 and older.

Vida Latina Celebration
Held at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Saturday, Oct. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m., this fun family-friendly event will feature free food, a live poetry reading, dance performance and live music by Trio Renacimiento. Attendees can also create art, write poetry, contribute to a community quilt and learn basic dance steps to cumbia, bachata and merengue.

"Vida Latina is more than just a series of events; it is a celebration of the spirit and contributions of the Latin American community in Long Beach. Through storytelling, music, art, and education, we aim to create meaningful experiences highlighting Latin American culture's richness," said Cathy De Leon, Director of Library Services. "We invite everyone to join us in this vibrant celebration and deepen their understanding and appreciation of our shared cultural heritage."

Through its annual Vida Latina, the Library offers an array of special programs, curated book and film lists and engaging activities that warmly welcome visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Latin American culture. Additionally, the Library's website includes "Reflections of Long Beach," a dynamic digital space accessible year-round, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant cultural history of Long Beach and fostering exploration, learning and meaningful connections.

The Library's Vida Latina celebration is generously supported by Friends of the Long Beach Public Library and the Long Beach Public Library Foundation. For the full schedule of programs and to learn more, visit the Library events calendar, Vida Latina Reflections page or call the Library at 562.570.7500.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Public Library, visit lbpl.organd on social at: Facebook, X and Instagram.

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