Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – Each year, the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library through its International Book Discussion, brings together children from Mexico and Edinburg to partake in fun activities that celebrate a special book, friendship and the joy of reading. This year, the Edinburg Library will host its 11th Annual International Book Discussion on March 26, 2021.
Since its inauguration 11 years ago, the Library has held this event in conjunction with St. Matthew’s Episcopal School of Edinburg and the Oxford School of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. This year, Vanguard Academy Beethoven Elementary of Edinburg will join in on the discussion.
This year’s reading selection is Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes. Participants will follow the main character of the story, Paloma Marquez, as she ventures through Mexico City trying to solve the disappearance of a priceless ring designed by the renowned artist, Frida Kahlo. The South Texas Literacy Coalition, a key partner since day one, has donated copies of the novel for the students participating.
After a book is selected and disbursed to the students, they will read and prepare to meet and discuss the book. This year’s book discussion will be held via a virtual platform to ensure the safety of the students, teachers and staff. The annual event includes fun activities, contests, as well as a Q&A session with the author, but the most important aspect of the IBD is the camaraderie between the students and the joy of seeing each other to share their thoughts about the book they shared.
“IBD was created to bring young readers from both sides of the border and unite them through literature and similar experiences to help strengthen the bonds of friendships between our two cultures. The friendships and experiences that have come about through IBD give us hope and help inspire us each day to continue to celebrate reading and inclusion in all our library programming,” states City of Edinburg Library Director, Letty Leija.
In 2020, this innovative program received the “Best of Show” Branding Iron Award from the Texas Library Association for its creative approach. It was deemed a “beautiful example of how books and literacy can bring together children from different countries for education, friendship and a memorable shared experience”.
For information on all upcoming library activities, you can follow the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library on its Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SekulaMemorialLibrary, website https://cityofedinburg.com/library or call 956-383-6246.
