Courtesy of Prince William Public Libraries

Prince William Public Libraries is joining 75 libraries and cultural organizations nationwide in Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home, an initiative that explores and celebrates the rich tapestry of Latino poetry. The initiative is directed by the Library of America and funded with generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective.

Celebrate the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans with us. Participate in special events, including the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Poetry Contest for teens in grades 9–12 from September 15–October 15, attend our regular Spanish story times and Spanish learning programs, and explore Latino poetry in PWPL’s collection and Digital Library.

Prince William County is the most diverse county in Virginia, with a diversity index of 73.7%, and 25.2% of the population Hispanic. In the City of Manassas, the Hispanic/Latino population constitutes around 40% of the residents. PWPL aims to create an inclusive and vibrant program environment that celebrates Latino poetry while engaging and inspiring a diverse audience.

The Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home programs will continue through April 2025, when we will host a reading by local Latino authors during National Poetry Month.