Community

Learn More About Biblioteca Latinoamericana

Biblioteca was founded in 1974 by a group of mothers who wanted to promote Latino cutlure and the Spanish language while ensuring success in English.

After receiving a state grant in 1976, the Biblioteca affiliated with San Jose Public Library. It was first housed near Sacred Heart Church and then moved into the former Woodrow Wilson High School cafeteria next to the Center for Employment Training.

In 1988, Los Amigos de La Biblioteca (Friends of the Library) was created and community members organized a new Biblioteca. To learn more visit,http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/biblioteca/friends.htm#contact

This culminated in the construction of the current 15,000 square foot showplace building which opened in November 1999. 

Original artwork by local artist, Pilar Aguero adorns the walls and provides a glimpse of the beauty of Latino culture. The outdoor patio features a beautiful fountain created by South Pasadena artist, Elsa Flores.

It serves as a Bay Area resource for Spanish and bilingual (Spanish/English) materials on Latin American culture and history.

There is more to do at the Library than you might ever imagine.

You can find a book or do some research. You can take DVDs home, get homework help in English or Spanish, learn to use a computer, enjoy bilingual storytime with your child and get help with reading or learn English as a second language.

The library is located at 921 South First Street in San Jose.
For more information, visit www.sjlibrary.org.