"The first of its kind section with Bulgarian books in the Central Branch of the San Francisco State Library is now a fact!", the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Los Angeles announced in Facebook.

The official opening brought together enthusiasts and donors of Bulgarian books for the library. The initiative was carried out based on an idea and with the support of the Bulgarian Cultural Center "Ripni Kalinke" - a non-governmental organization established by Bulgarians in 2013 with the aim of promoting Bulgarian culture and traditions and uniting compatriots on the West Coast.

“During the meeting, each of us recommended different events that we could organize in the library and expressed our desire to organise meetings with children and readings of Bulgarian books. BCC Ripni Kalinke, as well as everyone wishing to participate, will organize annual events in the library on iconic dates for us Bulgarians, such as May 24, the Day of the National Enlighteners and others,” we learn from a post by Sonya Kirova who is part of "Ripni Kalinke”.

According to her, the opening of the special library section was marked like a real Bulgarian holiday in Bulgarian language - with reading of Ivan Vazov's and Hristo Botev's poems, delicious bread and a special surprise - a wall hanging made by Rositsa Koleva and donated to the library in San Francisco. That is why the Bulgarian Cultural Center "Ripni Kalinke" thanks all donors for the donation of books to the library in San Francisco.

The realization of this patriotic initiative is not the end of the summer events organised by Bulgarian compatriots in this part of the US. On June 10, Bulgarians in San Francisco will be able to see the documentary performance "Once You Cross the Ocean". In it, theater director Martina Novakova explores emigrants’ emotions, reactions to the foreign cultural environment, the themes of identity, and the search for home.

Earlier on the same day, there will be a celebration dedicated to Sts. Cyril and Methodius. "Enjoy the beauty of our folk dances and songs, which preserve the spirit and energy of the people of Bulgaria, Greece, Russia and Ukraine," the invitation to the event reads.

Editor: Elena Karkalanova

English: Al. Markov