Throughout the month of May, Long Beach public libraries will host a series of virtual programs, events and activities to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Events such as story times, book discussions and cultural programs will celebrate and uplift many Asian American and Pacific Islander stories, voices and experiences that are a crucial part of the cultural landscape in Long Beach.

“Our Cambodian, Filipino and other AAPI brothers and sisters are an integral part of the cultural fabric that make up Long Beach,” Glenda Williams, director of Library Services, said in a press release. “I’m thrilled that [public libraries are] able to promote inclusivity through our diverse workshops and events for our entire community.”

Highlights of this year’s events are listed below. A full list of events is available on the LBPL online calendar:

  • Origami Take-and-Make Craft (May 1) – Learn about the history of this unique Japanese craft with a take-home craft kit. Kits are available for pickup at all library To-Go locations on a first-come, first-served basis and while supplies last.
  • Bookbites Podcast (May 4) – A library-hosted podcast highlighting the new teen book, The Patron Saints of Nothing by Filipino American author Randy Ribay.
  • Bilingual Storytime (May 8 and 22) – Children can enjoy celebrating Asian American cultures through stories, told in Spanish, highlighting Chinese and Korean cuisine and culture.
  • Virtual Hula (May 11) – A virtual hula performance by local Polynesian dancers.
  • Miller Room Book Club featuring The Refugees (May 15) – A book discussion for adults on the short stories collection The Refugees by Viet Thanh Nguyen, exploring poignant stories of immigration, family, love and identity through the experiences of Vietnamese refugees to America.
  • Author Talk & Teen Writing Workshop (May 22) – Middle and high school students can enjoy this online writing workshop, “Storytelling in the 21st Century,” for young, aspiring authors, presented by local author and educator, Ky-Phong Tran.
  • Pacific Islander Lecture Series featuring “Many Islands, Many Stories: Exploring Oceania Arts, Tradition, & Heritage,” (May 22) – A new virtual arts and culture lecture series presented by Fran Lujan, Director of Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum.