The Rincón de Libros will remain open through the end of the year, with hopes of becoming a permanent fixture in the library.
MIDLAND, Texas — The Ector County Library has unveiled a new reading corner dedicated to the legacy of Richard C. Abalos, the first Mexican American attorney in Odessa, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
In partnership with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the library launched the Richard C. Abalos Rincón de Libros, Spanish for “reading corner”, to promote bilingual literacy among children and honor Abalos’ lifelong commitment to education.
“I know he would be very proud,” said Delma Abalos, a LULAC member and wife of the late attorney. “Reading was important to him, and he made sure all kids got a good education and that their parents understood the importance of reading.”
The new section features more than 100 bilingual children’s books, including titles by Hispanic authors. The collection is designed to encourage early literacy and cultural pride within the community.
Carol Uranga, the executive director of the Hispanic Heritage of Odessa, emphasized the importance of making reading accessible to Spanish-speaking families.
“The majority of people here speak Spanish, so their grandmothers and fathers don’t speak English, and they depend on the kids,” Uranga said. “We want to encourage literacy as early as possible, and this is our part in doing it.”
The Mexican Consulate also contributed books to the initiative, further supporting its mission to engage young readers.
The reading corner is the latest in a series of community-focused projects led by LULAC. Delma Abalos said continuing her husband’s legacy through education remains a top priority.
“We are all involved in trying to get kids educated,” Delma Abalos said.
The Rincón de Libros will remain open through the end of the year, with hopes of becoming a permanent fixture in the library.