From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Johnson County Library joins communities across the country in observing Hispanic Heritage Month to honor the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
Today, more than 65 million Latinos — 19.5% of the U.S. population — help shape our nation as artists, innovators, leaders and storytellers. Here in Johnson County, over 50,000 neighbors, more than 8% of our community, identify as Hispanic. This year, we are marking the month with events, stories and resources to inspire connection and learning.
One highlight: a Walk and Read at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center happening Oct. 4-12. Families and readers of all ages are invited to stroll through the park while enjoying the vibrant picture book “Green Is a Chile Pepper: A Book of Colors” by Roseanne Thong. The story — posted page by page along the path — offers a playful way to celebrate heritage together.
And there’s more to explore. The Library has live events, digital resources and other ways to dig deeper!
Experiences & Events
- Art & Culture: Explore an exhibition by artist Vincent Medellin at Gardner Library (Sept. 8 to Dec. 15). The artist describes the work as “pop-rasquachismo” (rasquache being a Chicano term for an underdog using what they must get by). With humor and pop-culture references, Medellin examines life in the space between Mexican heritage and U.S. identity.
- Workshops: Learn practical skills in our Spanish-language small business workshops (various dates).
- Conversations: Tune into “Nuestra América: Stories of 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States,” an online event on Oct. 2 with Smithsonian curators who bring to life the legacies of Latino leaders across history.
Books, Films & More
- Curated book, eBook and eAudiobook lists celebrating Hispanic and Latino voices for all ages.
- A Kanopy film collection revealing stories of Hispanic heritage and culture.
- Databases like Hispanic Life in America (NewsBank), offering firsthand accounts and historical documents to deepen your understanding of Hispanic American life.
For Kids & Families
- Lightbox interactive eBooks (search “Spanish” for over 150 titles)
- Bilingual Storytime / Hora de Cuentos, where children experience stories and songs in both Spanish and English.
Learning & Growth
- Citizenship and Civics resources designed for learners preparing for naturalization.
- English Language Learners classes: supportive, no-pressure classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced students.
- Self-paced language learning through Mango Languages and Rosetta Stone.
And of course, the Library’s commitment goes further just one month. At all 14 branches — and online at jocolibrary.org, with resources also available in Spanish at jocolibrary.org/español — you’ll find stories, programs and tools that support our diverse community every day of the year.
