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In 1954, ALA and the United States Book Publishing House partnered to establish the National Book Commission, a non-profit organization. In 1957, the Commission introduced the idea of National Library Week, with the aim of promoting a love of reading and supporting libraries across the United States.
April is also considered Library Month for schools, and the ALA specifically designates events for National Library Week: National Library Workers' Day (Tuesday), National Book Day, and Youth Literature Support Day (Thursday). Each year, National Library Week has a new theme. The theme for National Library Week in 1954 was "Wake Up and Read!" and the theme for 2019 was "Libraries Build Strong Communities."
On the occasion of National Library Week 2019, the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City extended congratulations on this important cultural event and posed a question to Vietnamese readers: why do they love the U.S. Central Library in Ho Chi Minh City? For a long time, it has been a source of up-to-date information for Vietnamese readers on U.S. policy and issues such as politics, economics, trade, foreign policy, national security, education, culture, and the arts. In addition, the Central Library also provides information on global issues such as drug abuse, HIV-AIDS, social issues, and the environment.
The Center's library currently has approximately 2000 books on topics such as: U.S. history, U.S. government and foreign policy, economics and trade, geography and tourism, science, environment, performing arts, American literature, American culture, etc.
The American Center in Ho Chi Minh City has a team of professional staff equipped with modern information access technology. The center's free internet service provides access to valuable online databases.
The Center is open to students, teachers, civil servants, and the general public who wish to learn about American culture, education, and the Center's services, all completely free of charge. In addition, the American Center organizes free programs for the public weekly. (Note: ID is required for admission). Programs include film screenings, thematic talks, exhibitions, book discussions, English clubs, soft skills training, and English competitions.
