Many library associations are providing additional educational and cultural sessions/tours/author talks/more during #alaac24. I was able to attend one this morning. It was sponsored by #APALA (Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association).
We went on a guided tour of the unique Mingei International Museum located in Balboa Park. Mingei is a word taken from the Japanese language meaning people. The museum is dedicated to displaying art by the people. We were able to visit their beautiful facility and get a talk from the museum’s librarian and see their wonderful reference library.
There are three special exhibitions right now along with their permanent exhibits. While touring the exhibit Threaded Journeys by Shirin Towfiq, we were able to meet her family who were also touring the exhibit! Her grandfather, mother, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew were all there. Much of her work is based on the immigrant experience of her family who came here from Iran.
From the museum display, Interdisciplinary artist Shirin Towfiq explores the stories and memories shared by her family while navigating the in-betweenness and uncertainty she feels as a second-generation Iranian refugee. Her work is inspired by Persian folk art, lore, and traditions which she reimagines through embroidery, patchwork, and digital prints on gauze.” If you have a chance to visit, I highly recommend this beautiful museum with a unique foundation and mission. #mingei
Conference Blogger Patricia Ballard (she/her/hers) is a librarian in the Metro Detroit suburbs. She has always worked in public libraries and is currently a Tween Coordinator at the West Bloomfield Township Public Library with a focus on school-aged programming. In reality, Patricia does programming for all ages and works with a great team. Outreach and programming are her passion and she is hoping to learn some innovative new ways to get out and about in her community and bring them in too! Patricia is known for her very loud laugh and has been the shushed way more than the shusher.
Please note that as a guest post, the views expressed here do not represent the official position of ALA or ALSC.