Every year, celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15–October 15. Honor the contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from South and Central America, the Caribbean, Spain and Mexico. Did you know that Hispanic Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration under President Lyndon B. Johnson? President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a month-long celebration in 1988.
Brazil celebrates its independence day on September 7. September 15 is the anniversary of independence for El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Honduras. September 16 is Mexico's independence day and September 18 is Chile's independence day.
EXPLORE LISTS
- Read aloud a Hispanic heritage-focused picture book, perfect for ages 0-5.
- For elementary and middle school kids, read about influential Hispanic Americans.
- Hey teens, these novels were hand-picked just for you all about Hispanic Heritage Month.
- Read a Pura Belpre Award-winning book for youth (teens and children).
- Pick up some novels (and two memoirs!) by Latino authors.
- Celebrate with this list in Spanish and English of Hispanic authors who have inspired many.
- Check out a novel from the Great American Read...in Spanish.
INSTANT GRATIFICATION
- Stream a Spanish-language film from Kanopy.
- Read a book in Spanish from ODILO.
- Teach yourself Spanish using Transparent Language.
GENEALOGY RESOURCES
- Visit the Genealogy Hub for inspiration, and browse resources like Ancestry.com and more to trace your family history.
- Start piecing together your family history with these websites to fill out your family tree.
- Not sure where to begin? We can help! Schedule a 30-minute appointment with a librarian.
