May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, commemorating the contributions and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Take time to learn more when you visit your library. Consider reading a book by an Asian American author or Pacific Islander author or check out a documentary film.

Here are a few of the titles available at NOLS:

“How to Solve a Problem: The Rise (and Falls) of a Rock-Climbing Champion” by Ashima Shiraishi and Yao Xiao

To a rock climber, a boulder is called a “problem,” and you solve it by climbing to the top. There are twists and turns, falls and scrapes, and obstacles that seem insurmountable until you learn to see the possibilities within them. And then there is the moment of triumph, when there’s nothing above you but sky and nothing below but a goal achieved. (from the publisher)

“Asian Americans” PBS DVD

This five-part series traces the story of Asian Americans, spanning 150 years of immigration, racial politics, international relations, and cultural innovation. It is a timely, clear-eyed look at the vital role that Asian Americans have played in defining who we are as a nation. Their stories are a celebration of the grit and resilience of a people that reflects the experience of all Americans. (from the producer)

“The Best We Could Do” by Thi Bui

This beautifully illustrated and emotional story is an evocative memoir about the search for a better future and a longing for the past. Exploring the anguish of immigration and the lasting effects that displacement has on a child and her family, Bui documents the story of her family’s daring escape after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970s, and the difficulties they faced building new lives for themselves. (from the publisher)

“Patron Saints of Nothing” by Randy Ribay

A powerful coming-of-age story about grief, guilt, and the risks a Filipino-American teenager takes to uncover the truth about his cousin’s murder. As gripping as it is lyrical, this young adult novel is a page-turning portrayal of the struggle to reconcile faith, family, and immigrant identity. National Book Award finalist. (from the publisher)

“The Leavers” by Lisa Ko

A vivid and moving examination of borders and belonging, this is the story of how one boy comes into his own when everything he’s loved has been taken away — and how one woman learns to live with the mistakes of her past. National Book Award finalist. (from the publisher)

Stop by a NOLS branch

Library staff look forward to seeing you soon! Browse the shelves during limited in-library hours in Sequim from 2-6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Curbside service is available 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 1-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The Sequim Library at 630 N. Sequim Ave. Visit nols.org, email to sequim@nols.org or call 360-683-1161.

Emily Sly is the Sequim Library branch manager.