E te iloa Fa'a- Sāmoa? Celebrating Samoan Language Week at Auckland Libraries

To celebrate Samoan as the second-most spoken language in Auckland, Auckland Libraries is hosting an exciting line-up of free events and activities during le Vaiaso o le Gagana Sāmoa (Samoan Language Week, 27 May to 2 June).

“Auckland Libraries has an extensive range of Samoan language resources – from Pacific books and DVDs to children’s picture books and junior readers,” says Kim Taunga, Manager South Libraries.

“Vaiaso o le Gagana Sāmoa is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate one of our region’s most vibrant Pacific cultures and its language,” she says.

• Local libraries are holding Samoan-themed Storytimes, Rhymetimes, craft activities and author talks.

• Auckland-based Samoan author Lani Wendt Young will be speaking about her writing, what gives her inspiration and her book Telesa – The Covenant Keeper which is proving popular around the world.

• Fruitvale Primary School’s (New Lynn) principal and the three authors of Sione's first walk to school, 'O le ulua'i savaliga a Sione 'i le a'oga will hold talks at Glen Eden and Mangere East Libraries about this popular new bilingual book and the school’s collaboration with the New Zealand Transport Agency to make it happen.

People interested in keeping up to date with what’s new in our Pacific collections or reading suggestions also can sign up for Pasefika, one of Auckland Libraries’ ‘NextReads’ monthly eNewsletters.

Visit www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz or ask a librarian to find out more about events during Samoan Language Week.