ISLAMIC HISTORY MONTH RICHMOND HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY OCTOBER 2011-11-09 28/12/11
ISLAMIC HISTORY MONTH
RICHMOND HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY OCTOBER 2011-11-09
As part of the library’s celebration of Islamic History Month, Richmond Hill Public Library was pleased to host two culturally educational films during the month of October. The two honoured films titled When the Moors Ruled Europe and An Islamic History of Europe were a wonderful introduction to our community of Islamic history and a cultural feast for the senses. Both films were documentaries narrated by credible and well-informed sources. Both were originally produced by the BBC and well chosen by Ms. Chishti. We had 8 – 10 attendees for each film and although the films did not draw a large audience, we are encouraged and remain committed to offering programs of this caliber to our community. The poster below was prepared by the Library to promote the program. The people who did attend not only showed great interest but also asked engaging and probing questions. Judging from audience interaction there is obviously an interest and need for more these types of programs in the future. The Library is considering adding one or both to its collection.
A display of materials on the Muslim Contributions to Science and Technology was placed with bookmarks and handouts at the north end of our third floor study area. Although there were a substantial number of flyers left over which have been recycled most or all of the pamphlets and bookmarks placed at the Reference Desk have disappeared suggesting that this had been well received by the public.
Ms Chishti has suggested that for Asian History Month in 2012 some further displays emphasizing the Arts could be considered as Muslims are strongly represented in southeastern Asia for example. We also would like to build on the momentum and although planning has been initiated both Li Chen and Alice Torrance will be in touch to discuss this further with Ms Chishti.
Finally, we depend on our community volunteers to help us reach out to the community and promote our programs in order to build a better understanding of the diversity within our community and share valuable cultural experiences. Ms. Chishti was a pleasure to work with. We would welcome the opportunity to work with her in the future as she was not only knowledgeable but supportive and a professional.
