Through a LSTA grant, the Chandler Public Library, using extensive collaboration, was able to present modern American history through multiple perspectives and in a variety of formats. All programs were interconnected by an underlying focus on war’s human dimension. Operating under the consideration that one format does not fit all, the library took a multidisciplinary approach by offering a variety of formats, encompassing films, book discussions, panel discussions and first person accounts, as well as a shared performance experience incorporating music, poetry, and photography.
Through a competitive application process, the Chandler Public Library was selected as one of 50 libraries around the country and the only library in Arizona to receive a Vietnam War programming grant from the American Library Association (ALA), PBS and WETA Washington D.C. The programming grant, which includes the full 18-hour documentary series on DVD, with public performance rights, will allow the library to develop and present additional programming in 2018 on this vital history with a particular emphasis on the local perspectives and expansion into broader themes. With the use of the film resources, the library plans to continue as a forum for civil conversations, where attendees can share their own stories and feelings after the first-person accounts and panel presentations. With the immense public interest in the Vietnam WarPBS series and this resonating period of history, the library will be able to offer the community an opportunity for further exploration, engagement and understanding.
Libraries selected for the grant were required to host one public program, event or activity related to the themes explored in the film. As the initial program for this programming grant, the Downtown Chandler Library, in collaboration with Arizona PBS, hosted a preview screening of Ken Burns & Lynn Novick's Vietnam War documentary followed by a panel discussion comprised of American and South Vietnamese veterans, and moderated by Navy veteran and former Chandler council member Martin Sepulveda. Over 250 people attended this August 30th evening program.
With the immense public interest in the Vietnam War PBS series and this resonating period of history, Chandler Public Library hopes to offer the community an opportunity for further exploration, engagement and understanding through the use of film resources. These public forums place a particular emphasis on the local perspectives, expand into broader themes and facilitate civil conversations where attendees can share their own stories and feelings after the first-person accounts and panel presentations.
Overall, the grant empowered the library to be both a catalyst and collaborator and bring several different entities and communities together. Based on the feedback, the programs were well-received and inspired patrons to new levels of awareness, engagement and understanding.
