130+ West Coast Libraries Unite for AANHPI Heritage Month

More than 130 library systems across California, Washington, and Oregon are making history with One Book, One Coast, the largest book club on the West Coast, just in time for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this May.

The inaugural selection, George Takei's graphic memoir "They Called Us Enemy," tells the story of his childhood incarceration alongside more than 120,000 people of Japanese descent following Executive Order 9066 in 1942. This powerful choice sets the tone for this year's AANHPI Heritage Month theme: "Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together."

Santa Monica Public Library is joining the celebration with a packed schedule of free events throughout May. Library Director Erica Cuyugan will lead a book discussion on May 13, while families can enjoy a Hawaiian dance performance at the Hula Fun Fest on May 23.

The collaboration represents a massive effort to build bridges across communities through shared stories. Takei himself will speak at a free author talk and book signing at the East Los Angeles Library on May 31, one of hundreds of free events happening across the three states.

Santa Monica's celebration extends beyond books. The city will screen "Yellow Rose," a coming-of-age film about a Filipina undocumented immigrant, on May 27. Comedy fans can catch LA's best AAPI comedians at "Rice Rice Baby" on May 22.

What began in the late 1970s as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week has grown into a monthlong celebration inviting people of all backgrounds to learn about AANHPI cultures. Libraries are displaying curated collections for all ages, including books by AANHPI authors in Spanish.

The Ripple Effect

The timing couldn't be better. By choosing a story about Japanese American incarceration for their first selection, One Book, One Coast reminds us that understanding history builds stronger, more resilient communities today.

When 130 libraries across three states commit to reading and discussing the same book, they're creating thousands of conversations about identity, justice, and belonging. These discussions ripple outward from library meeting rooms into homes, schools, and workplaces.

The collaboration shows what's possible when institutions work together with a shared purpose. Each event, from comedy shows to dance performances to film screenings, creates space for people to see themselves reflected and to learn about their neighbors' experiences.

Three states, one book, countless connections being made across communities that share a coast and now share a story.