By Kennedy McPherson, Public Relations Specialist, Downtown Main Library
Celebrate Arab American heritage this April by learning about influential people featured on library displays, reading books recommended by CHPL's librarians, and checking out the Library's Arabic language page.
Influential People of Arab Descent
Find displays around the Library's 41 locations with the graphic on this blog post featuring these influential people:
- Naomi Shihab Nye is a celebrated Arab American poet, essayist, and children's author known for her sensitivity and cultural awareness in her writing. Nye's contributions to literature include The Turtle of Oman and 19 Varieties of Gazelle, and she has earned numerous accolades, including the Jane Addams Children's Book Award and the Paterson Poetry Prize. Through her writing, Nye reminds readers of the beauty and strength found in different cultures.
- Zaha Hadid was a groundbreaking Iraqi-British architect and the first woman to design a major American Museum. She is known for her unique vision and innovative creations, which reshaped how we perceive and interact with architecture. Hadid’s work has impacted American architecture, inspiring many books, including The World Is Not a Rectangle by Jeanette Winter and Building Zaha by Victori Tentler-Krylov. Hadid’s legacy and futuristic vision continue to be showcased in museums, including her design of Cincinnati's Contemporary Arts Center.
- Fady Joudah is a prominent Arab American poet and physician whose work bridges the worlds of art and science. His heritage plays a crucial role in his poetry, which explores themes of identity, displacement, and belonging. Joudah’s poetry includes Tethered to Stars and [...]. Joudah's dual career as a poet and physician continues to influence and inspire, shedding light on shared human experience.
Recommended Reading and Viewing
Read more with these books and materials recommended by CHPL's expert librarians.
Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with one of these books written by Arab American authors, written about Arabic heritage.
Find More Staff Lists
Featured Page: Arabic Language Materials on CHPL.org
Check out the Arabic language page on CHPL.org to watch a StoryTime at Home, "I’m a Caterpillar," find reliable Library information, and discover the latest books, movies, and other library materials in Arabic.
How are you celebrating Arab American Heritage Month? Share in the comments below!
Add a comment to: Celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month 2025 with CHPL