Pamana Children’s Library: Pages Beyond Books – Stories from Our Volunteers

As we begin the new year, we’re thrilled to not only share insights from the authors of some beloved books in the Rizal Center Pamana Children’s Library but also to highlight the voices of the dedicated individuals who make it all possible—our volunteers. This year, in our Pages Beyond Books: Stories from Our Volunteers section, we’ll hear from the inspiring people behind the scenes who bring passion, energy, and care to the library. Stay tuned to learn more about their experiences and the impact they have on our community!

A Home Away from Home: My Journey with the Pamana Library

By Roxan Yusay

As an exchange teacher from the Philippines, this has been one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had since moving to Chicago. I didn’t hesitate when my friend invited me to help with the Pamana Library project. I knew how important it was to create a space where Filipino children could connect with their roots and culture. Pamana Library isn’t just a library; it’s a place where our culture can live and grow, even when we’re far from home.

This project allowed me to celebrate my Filipino identity while helping others do the same. Volunteering gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. As a teacher, I know how stories and books shape who we are. Pamana Library will give kids the chance to see themselves in the stories they read and connect with the Filipino traditions and values that make our culture so rich.

As a Middle School English Language Arts teacher, I often discuss themes of identity, culture, and resilience in my classroom. My 8th-grade class recently read Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai, the story of a girl who immigrates to the U.S. with her family to escape the war in Vietnam. She faces many struggles, including learning a new language, adapting to a different culture, and holding on to her identity amidst change. Her story resonated with me. Like Ha, I’ve had to adjust to life in a new country while staying connected to my Filipino identity. It’s not easy, and I can only imagine how Filipino children here must feel the same way.

Pamana Library gives Filipino children a place where they can feel they belong, learn about their culture, and be proud of who they are. It’s not just about the books; it’s about preserving stories, traditions, and practices that might otherwise be lost. It’s a reminder that even while growing up in another country, they are part of something bigger—something rich and vibrant.

Watching Pamana Library come to life has been a rewarding experience. It’s not just shelves of books; it’s a space filled with pride and identity. It feels like a home away from home, a safe place where kids can explore their roots and embrace their culture. To me, it’s a promise to the next generation that no matter where they go, their Filipino roots will always be there for them.

This project brings me hope and pride. Being involved with Pamana Library has given me the chance to help keep Filipino heritage alive for future generations. I’m happy to have been part of its early days and can’t wait to see how it grows. Pamana Library is more than a home for books; it’s a treasure chest of identity, a second home, and a promise that our Filipino culture will never be forgotten.

Roxan Yusay is a dedicated Chicago Public School teacher with 9 years of experience. She is passionate about fostering inclusive learning environments, empowering students with diverse needs, and inspiring a love of lifelong learning. Through her work, she strives to make a positive impact on her students’ lives and help them reach their full potential.


Welcome to Pamana Children’s Library! Dive into the heart of Filipino stories. Made possible by passionate individuals dedicated to preserving Filipino heritage through children’s literature. Our collection of books serves as a gateway to the Philippines, featuring everything from classic folktales to contemporary adventures. Each title offers a unique perspective, encouraging young readers to explore their roots and embrace their cultural identity.

Read about Pamana Children’s Library story and our mission by visiting our page on the Rizal Center website: https://rizalcenter.org/programs/pamana-childrens-library/.

Follow us on Instagram

We’re now on Instagram! Follow us at @pamanalibrary_chicago for updates on our collection, events, and activities as we celebrate Filipino culture and heritage. Join us in a nurturing love for Filipino literature and exploring the beautiful stories that connect us all!

Support the Pamana Children’s Library

At Pamana, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling and the joy of books to connect generations and celebrate cultural identity. Our mission is to inspire young minds by sharing the rich traditions, values, and stories of the Philippines, fostering a sense of community. Since our opening in December 2023, our dedicated volunteers have engaged Filipino families in the greater Chicago area through enriching story times and cultural events.

To sustain these vital programs, we kindly ask for your support through one-time or monthly donations. Your contributions directly benefit the children and families we serve.

As the program of the Rizal Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, your donations may be tax-deductible.

Thank you for considering a gift to help us continue our mission!

Donate now


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