Thursday, April 07 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
How do you translate diversity from a statistic to a city’s growth in empathy and community learning? Living Room sessions at the Houston (TX) Public Library gather neighbors together to get to know one another over international coffee and tea, and to discuss issues that affect their communities, from refugee resettlement to language exchange. Learn how the library can build social cohesion as the community’s Living Room.
Presenters:
Carmen Peña Abrego
Carmen Peña Abrego, Community Involvement Coordinator, Houston Public Library, Houston, TX
Carmen Peña Abrego is an assistant manager of library events and community programs for the Houston Public Library system (HPL). She spearheaded the launch of Houston Public Library Quarterly (HPLQ), an author series which has featured Congressman John Lewis, award-winning journalist Kirstin Downey, and best-selling author Terry McMillan, among others. She has organized LibroFEST, an annual library-sponsored Latino literary arts festival, since 2012.
Helen Chou
Helen Chou, Senior Manager of International Services, Houston Public Library, Houston, TX
Helen Chou is the Senior Manager of International Services at the Houston Public Library, and has focused her career in public service and economic development. Before joining the Library, she served with the Singapore government supporting international non-profit organizations to expand operations across Asia. Born and raised in Houston, she is passionate about the power of Houston’s diversity, and the opportunity to make Houston home for people from all backgrounds and nations of the world.
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