Hilton C. Buley Library has been awarded a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA). Our library was one of 842 libraries and state humanities councils across the country selected to receive Bridging Cultures Bookshelf: Muslim Journeys. In Connecticut, 10 libraries were selected, with only 4 academic libraries chosen to participate.
Our library’s film and book collections were strengthened with the arrival of 25 books, 3 documentary films, and a one year subscription to Oxford Islamic Studies Online provided by the award. Librarians, cultural programming experts and scholars provided their expertise and were responsible for selecting the most reliable and authoritative sources. The collection is arranged in five broad themes: American Stories, Connected Histories, Literary Reflections, Pathways to Faith, and Points of View. Additional resources such as bookmarks, bookplates, and posters will be sent to our library to advertise our programs and resources.
In connection with this grant, Buley Library will display some of the Bridging Cultures Bookshelf in the exhibit case on the first floor of the library. This exhibit will introduce readers to the diverse perspectives of the people, histories, religions, and cultures of Muslims in the United States and around the world. Several Buley librarians will collaborate to develop a Muslim Journeys LibGuide that introduces our students and faculty to the print and online resources available at Buley Library. This guide will be available online for public access.
Throughout the year, the Friends of Buley Library will host a variety of free events and programs that will feature some of the resources in Bridging Cultures Bookshelf: Muslim Journeys. So far, the Muslim Student Association and Dr. Steven Judd, Chairperson of the History Department, have agreed to participate in a variety of lectures, film showings and other activities on campus. In the community, the New Haven Free Public Library will partner with us to sponsor a program to engage the New Haven community in a conversation about cultural diversity.
We hope that these events will encourage the Southern and New Haven communities to explore the diversity of Muslim culture and experience. The Bridging Cultural Bookshelf: Muslim Journeys will help the library become a place of cultural exploration and discovery. Buley Library is committed to cultural diversity and fostering learning experiences for everyone.
All events will be open to the public and community participation is encouraged.
