KU News Release

International programs librarians at KU connect with local junior high students

LAWRENCE — Librarians at the University of Kansas are reaching out to Lawrence’s South Junior High School to teach seventh-graders about lands beyond Jayhawk territory.

The presentations from KU Libraries’ Latin American, East Asian and Slavic studies departments are being made in conjunction with International Education Week, scheduled for Nov. 17-21.

A recent presentation to the junior high students by Jana Krentz, Ibero-American bibliographer, included musical instruments and artifacts from Latin America.

“The teachers were very eager to have us visit,” Krentz said. “They hadn’t realized that KU Libraries had so many K-12 books and resources.”

Krentz said the visit was multifaceted in that it made teachers aware of KU Libraries resources and it gave students an opportunity to experience new cultures firsthand.

She said she was excited by the students’ eagerness to learn about and explore other cultures.

“Some geography books can be dry and boring, but we really made it come alive,” she said. “They loved the materials we brought and were very inquisitive. They really liked to see cartoons and hear music from other regions.”

African presentations will take place later this month. In February, students will get a visit from the East Asian studies department in which they will learn to tie an obi knot on a kimono and instruction in calligraphy. Russian presentations will take place later in the spring.

Krentz said each department will present its material in a different way. The students are also able to study online materials prepared by the librarians during class time.

Krentz views the South Junior High visits as a pilot program.

“My goal would be to present to all junior high schools in Lawrence,” she said.

KU Libraries also will celebrate International Education Week with an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, on the third floor of Watson Library.

The open house will feature samples of foods from all over the world as well as live music. The event is free and open to the public.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.