This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
On May 5, the Longmont Public Library will be rolling out the red carpet for Skyline High School's Mariachi Band as they lead the day's festivities celebrating children, books, and diversity.
The Library's third annual “Día – Diversity in Action/Diversidad en Acción” program is an American Library Association-sponsored holiday that evolved from the traditional Mexican holiday of “El día de los ninos/El día de los liblos” or “Children’s Day/Book Day.”
Picture-book author, biographer, poet, educator, and bilingual literacy advocate Pat Mora is generally credited with importing the Mexican holiday to America and introducing it as a library initiative more than 20 years ago. As the holiday has gained traction, it has also evolved into a more general push for diversity in literature for children and young adults and has emphasized inclusion of underrepresented groups and cultures.
The Longmont Library's celebration similarly expanded beyond its original Latino roots with last year's featured author, Dorje Dolma and her story from Nepal.
“Día – Diversity in Action/Diversidad en Acción” will be held on Sunday, May 5, from 2 to 3:30 pm at the Library, 409 4th Ave. The bilingual celebration will include music, dancing, games, crafts, and treats for the whole family. Advance registration is not required, and this is a family event suitable for all ages.
