Norfolk, VA (April 28, 2010) – Norfolk Public Library has scheduled a series of special events from May 1 to May 31, 2010 in appreciation of National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

In June 1977, Representatives Frank Horton (NY) and Norman Y. Mineta (CA) introduced a House resolution that called upon the president to proclaim the first ten days of May as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week. In May 1990, the holiday was expanded further when President George H. W. Bush designated May to be Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad (by many Chinese laborers) on May 10, 1869.

NPL invites you to learn about the culture and contributions of Asian and Pacific Americans. Listed below is a selection of our special events in May. For a complete listing of events and a bibliography, please go to www.npl.lib.va.us.

The Big Read: The Joy Luck Club
Join the Norfolk Public Library and Old Dominion University for the Big Read. We’ll read Amy Tan’s book The Joy Luck Club. Come to one of the events listed below. (Adults)

Notes From the Far East (Part II)
Ms. Berz returns for two shorter presentations on Chinese culture! Come experience music, stories, traditions, and more in these 45 minute programs. (Family)

Discover the Serenity of Norfolk’s Pagoda & Oriental Gardens
Saturday, May 22 @ 2:00 p.m.
Norfolk Main Library ~ 664-7323
Master gardener and photographer Jackie Camire will give us an inside look at Norfolk’s Pagoda and beautiful Oriental Garden. The Pagoda is a centerpiece of the garden, and was presented as a gift to the Commonwealth of Virginia and the City of Norfolk in 1983 by the Taiwan Provincial Government. Discover this masterpiece that is right in your own back yard! (Family)