For Immediate Release: April 3, 2006

Spanish is Now Available on Oakland Public
Library's Web Site

(Oakland, CA) — The Oakland Public Library’s Web site is more accessible than ever with new Spanish-language Web pages that offer Spanish-speaking users the ability to find information on the library’s programs, services and collections fast and conveniently from their home or office. Internet users who go to www.oaklandlibrary.org can select “Servicios en Español” on the home page, which links them to the new Spanish language site. Once there, viewers can learn about Oakland Public Library locations, policies, and special bilingual programs, such as storytimes and computer classes. They can find which libraries provide Spanish-language materials, as well as a list of local community agencies. They can even download a library application form in Spanish in order to register for a free card.

“It’s important that all people in our community have access to our Web site,” states Daniel Hersh, Computer Services Manager for the Oakland Public Library. “This is the first step in reaching out to some of our non-English speaking residents. We hope to be able to provide the same kind of online information for our Chinese community in the near future.”

The Oakland Public Library includes the César E. Chávez Branch Library (formerly the Latin American Library), which was established in 1966. The Chávez Branch currently maintains a multi-media collection of over 11,000 Spanish items (books, DVD’s, CD’s, audiotapes, etc.) and is located in the Fruitvale Transit Village. Spanish-speakers who would like more information about the library or the Web site should call (510) 535-5620.

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