Each year, I’m amazed and humbled by the people who join this project. Although each event is unique, libraries are united by their dedication to organizing events that reflect their communities. Events explore notions of what it means to enjoy freedom, or what a peaceful planet may look like, or how the 
pursuit of a better world means difficult discussions with potentially enlightening results.
These thoughts surrounded me as we heard from Roma Baristaite, of the Povilas Visinskis Public Library in Lithuania. She was kind enough to include photos of her library’s program, which truly brought to life her library, her patrons, and her community. I’ve never visited Lithuania, but now I feel a bit closer, and a lot more curious.
Roma sent several photos, and this one, above, caught my attention. The intense focus intrigued me; proof that Roma and her colleagues organized a compelling event.
Here is what Roma sent to our listserv about her library’s program:
On September 11th we watched the documentary film “9/11″ (2002, USA). The participants had possibility to remember the tragic events in USA, in 2001. After the film they discussed about the situation in the USA and World today, how everything is changing after events in 2001, and what can we do, that it would never happen again.
Also there is Poster exhibition “September 11th by the World Press”. The visitors have possibility to knowledge of information, what was written in the World Press on the next day after September 11th event. This exhibition is till September 28th.”
In response to Roma’s post, another librarian, Rachel Carpenter, from the James P. Adams Library at Rhode Island College shared,
I want to let Roma Baristaite and the Povilas Visinskis Public Library know how much I appreciate reading about their September Project program and viewing the photographs. For me, this really underscores how a feeling of community with people elsewhere in the world can develop from such sharing of experiences and knowledge. I’m deeply touched. This is just what the September Project is all about. Thank you and thanks to the Project and all participating organizations.”
Nicely said, Rachel. What you describe is what David and I dreamed of five years ago, and it is overwhelming and beautiful to read your words and nod my head in agreement. Thanks to everyone for being a part of it.
