On Display: National Hispanic Heritage Month

September marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month.  According to the Library of Congress, Hispanic Heritage Month was first observed under President Lyndon Johnson in 1968. Traditionally, it begins on September 15 to commemorate the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The official celebration extends from September 15 to October 15 in order to acknowledge the rich and storied histories of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.  It was enacted into law under President Reagan on August 17, 1988. Come to the library to peruse Bentley's collection of books and films relating to the history, culture, food, land and peoples of the Americas.  Also, check out our display on Pinterest.