AAPI Heritage Month @ LBPL

National Asian flowers (such as cherry blossoms, plumerias, and padauk flowers) framing the words 'AAPI Heritage Month.'

The Long Beach Public Library is pleased to unveil its dynamic array of events and programs in observance of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month 2024, nationally recognized from May 1–31.

This year’s local theme, A Bouquet of Cultures, celebrates the diversity and allure of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures through a plethora of engaging experiences that mirror the vibrancy of the community. All residents are encouraged to participate in honoring and delving into the rich cultural legacy of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.


Festival of AAPI Books (FAB), Long Beach.

Festival of AAPI Books (FAB)

Kicking off the festivities for the third consecutive year is the eagerly anticipated Festival of AAPI Books (FAB), taking place on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 AM – 5 PM at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library. FAB promises a day brimming with literary delights, featuring engaging book discussions and author readings from over 15 esteemed AAPI authors, including Kaylin Melia George, author of Aloha Everything, and Jenny Liao, author of Everyone Loves Lunchtime but Zia.

The highlight of the festival will be a keynote discussion featuring Pulitzer Prize winner Viet Thanh Nguyen and 2022 Rome Prize in Literature winner Gina Apostol, followed by a book signing session for attendees. Festival participants can browse and purchase books and treats from a variety of vendors, including Bel Canto Books, We Are Sunraised, and Kubo LB.


Featured Programs

As AAPI Month unfolds, all Long Beach Public Library locations will host a diverse range of free programs suitable for children, teens, and adults. Check out the Library's AAPIHM Calendar for a full list of events. All events are free and open to the public.

Gyotaku: Fish Printing with The Studio
May 11 @ BJK Main Library

Suminagashi Paper Marbling Workshops with Stacy Wong
May 7 @ Alamitos Library
May 9 @ Dana Library
May 16 @ Harte Library
May 21 @ El Dorado Library

Author Talk with Rebecca F. Kuang
May 21 @ Online

Craft It Out: DIY Mini Zen Garden
May 29 @ Harte Library


AAPI Books, Media, and Resources

Visit the AAPI Heritage Month page in our Reflections of Long Beach section for booklists, local and online AAPI resources, and more!