EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – The new ‘Community languages collection’ at the LE Phillips Public Library has already caught many people’s eye, specifically those who speak a native language like French, Hmong, even Ojibwe. Y para los Latinos del area, ahora pueden leer algunos de sus libros favoritos, en Español.
Translation: “And for the Latinos in the area, you can now read some of your favorite books in Spanish.”
Inspiration for the collection came after the library analyzed language data and surveys from local schools, noticing a gap in materials written in primary languages spoken at home.
The libraries programming and communications services manager, Isa Small, said “we reached out to the Eau Claire Area School District and surveyed them on what languages are kids speaking in the schools here in the community.”
Saying the results showed that kids speak well over 20 languages in this region alone, carrying traditions from generation to generation.
Executive Director for the Chippewa Valley Museum, Carrie Ronnander, said what this collection represents.
“The new community book collection represents the different peoples that have populated this region for the last hundreds of years.” she said.
Stressing the importance in knowing where they all came from.
“In the case of Ojibwe. We just want to make sure we are honoring the decolonization that has lead to the lack of that language in our community.” Small said.
History experts say the Chippewa Valley was a true home to many Ojibwe and the language represents the areas first days of discovery.
“You have the Ojibwe who are here since the 1700’s, late 1600’s. French Canadians who are speaking French.” Ronnander said.
Adding that Hmong and Spanish people came much later, dating back to the 1970’s. Still holding a high population in all four cultures. So with that deep history, officials say it’s great to be able to give native speakers books they can read best.
Ronnander said “I think it’s very welcoming.”
As for native speakers, many understand the excitement in seeing more books available in your native tongue. Even if you have to be quiet.
The books also attract people in different age groups, adding to the inclusivity of the collection.
“It’s really reaching out and saying you are a part of us, it’s not just you and us. We are together.” Ronnander said.
So whether it’s at the museum, or even through a book, officials are continuing to educate people on where these languages came from, no importa de donde sean.
Translation: “No matter where you’re from.”
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