Saratoga Springs Public Library Launches Spanish Language Book Collection

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Public Library’s Access and Outreach department on Aug. 22 launched a new Spanish Book Collection featuring 130 pieces of fiction and non-fiction consisting of popular contemporary books as well as classics, Spanish language authors and translated works.

“This is a tremendous resource not only in Saratoga Springs but in the county as a whole,” said Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, who was present for the unveiling of the collection alongside The Immigrant Services resource coordinators from Lifeworks Community Action, members of the public and library staff.  

Spanish is the most common non-English language spoken in U.S. homes – 12 times greater than the next four most common languages, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Organizers at the library said the collection will serve to benefit to both – those who are fluent in Spanish, as well as those learning the language.

“The Access and Outreach department of the library looks forward to continuing to support our Spanish-speaking population’s needs for engagement, entertainment, and education, as well as supporting the empowerment of the Saratoga immigrant community,” said literacy Librarian Mary Ann Rockwell.

The launch featured shelved titles penned by Gabriel Garcia Marquez to John Grisham, Isabel Allende to Pedro Almodovar, and included an inviting decorated table with an assortment of cookies, Tres Leches Cake, and Jarritos pineapple soda. 

“One hundred and thirty items are already in the collection, which is going to grow – and it’s impossible to imagine the kind of educational or entertainment experiences that are coming out of each of the items in the collection,” said Terry Diggory, Library Board member and Co-Coordinator, Saratoga Immigration Coalition. “Even for people who may never take anything from the collection, the fact that it exists in this library says something educational about the whole community – that we are diverse, there are Spanish speaking people, or people who are trying to learn Spanish, and that’s a benefit to us all.”   

Through its website and in person, the library accepts requests for book titles that will increase the collection, Rockwell pointed out.    

“Our county is changing, and we are becoming an increasingly more multi-cultural county,” said Assemblywoman Woerner. “It’s wonderful to see our great institutions are making sure that everyone feels that they have a place here and can enjoy the love of reading. The richness that other cultures bring to our community is really enhancing the quality of life here, so, congratulations and… I don’t know how to say ‘Good luck, best wishes’ in Spanish…”  said Woerner. 

“Buena suerte!” one of the people present interjected. 

“Buena suerte! OK,” Woerner said, “there you have it!”