Washington, D.C. – The District of Columbia Public Library is marking Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15) with a series of Spanish‑language social‑media posts and video clips that spotlight Latino culture and library services.
Social media specialist leads the effort
Diego Garces, the library system’s social‑media specialist, says he wants the library’s online presence to reflect the community it serves. “I might not be American by birth, but I am by choice,” Garces told WTOP. “As a Latino, I am proud of my culture and my people, and this month is a chance to represent us.”
Garces creates short videos that blend humor with information. One vignette features staff members adopting Spanish names inspired by popular telenovelas, while another shows Garces lip‑syncing to the voice of Cuban‑American attorney Ana Maria Polo, the Spanish‑language counterpart to Judge Judy. Both clips have drawn positive comments from followers.
Engaging content and community response
Library staff initially expressed hesitation about appearing on camera, fearing viral exposure. “At first I got a lot of pushback,” Garces recalled. “You’re on camera, you could go viral, and a lot of people don’t want that attention.” Over time, many have embraced the opportunity, with staff asking, “Can I be in your next video?”
Adult services coordinator David Quick notes that the social‑media push helps residents stay informed about events they might otherwise miss. “Even if you didn’t make it to ‘that thing,’ those things are happening here, and you’re going to keep an eye on what we’re doing,” he said.
Balancing fun and safety
Garces acknowledges that the team monitors content for appropriateness. When a post about the historic 20th‑century card catalog sparked playful criticism, the staff adjusted the wording to ensure it remained respectful.
“We look at it and say how can we adjust it so it’s safe content for our channels,” Garces explained.
Personal journey fuels the mission
Garces immigrated to the United States from Colombia as a child, overcoming language barriers and teasing about his accent. He says his own experience drives his commitment to making the library welcoming for all.
“It’s been a long journey, but it taught me that anything is possible in this country,” he said. Reflecting on his younger self, Garces would tell him, “I am so proud of you—keep going, sí se puede.”
Library resources highlighted
Beyond cultural posts, the library’s social feeds promote quiet study rooms, meeting spaces, author talks, and programs on go‑go music, the District’s punk scene, and podcasting. QR codes linked to the Library of Congress allow patrons to explore national collections directly from the library.
Garces and Quick see the social‑media initiative as a way to bridge the gap between the library’s offerings and the diverse community it serves, reinforcing the library’s role as a hub for education, culture, and connection.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
