Taichung City Library Expands Database to Include Authors from Saint Kitts and Nevis

Cultivating Cross-Cultural Understanding Through Literature: Saint Kitts and Nevis Enriches Taichung City’s Literary Landscape

The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis in Taiwan continues its commendable "Sharing Kindness and Nurturing Love—SKNLOVE" outreach program, further strengthening the cultural bonds between the two nations. On April 23, 2025, coinciding with World Book and Copyright Day, the Embassy donated a collection of six books authored by Kittitian and Nevisian writers to the Taichung City Government. This generous contribution aims to provide Taichung City residents with valuable insights into the rich culture, history, and people of Saint Kitts and Nevis. This act of literary diplomacy underscores the power of books to transcend geographical boundaries and foster mutual understanding between diverse communities.

The donated books represent a diverse range of literary genres, offering readers a glimpse into the multifaceted aspects of Saint Kitts and Nevisian life. From children’s literature to cultural explorations, the collection includes "Masquerade Dance" and "Adventure at Brimstone Hill" by Carol Ottley-Mitchell, which delve into the vibrant traditions and historical landmarks of the islands. Kayrisa Kelly’s "My ABC Book About St. Kitts and Nevis" introduces young readers to the unique characteristics of the nation through an engaging alphabetical journey. Keimon Archibald-Lake’s "Oma Lu’s visit" offers a heartwarming narrative of family connections and cultural experiences. Vanessa Webbe’s "Cricket and Coconut Cake" explores the passions and everyday life of the people, while "Global Wings: Flying to Saint Kitts and Nevis," a collaborative publication by Yuan Ze University’s Global Cultural Initiative, featuring contributions from Ambassador Francis and Yitzak D. Bass, provides a broader perspective on the islands’ global connections.

Ambassador Donya L. Francis, in his address during the donation ceremony, emphasized the significance of books as more than just printed pages. He eloquently described them as "windows into our history, our values, our aspirations, and our people." This profound statement captures the essence of the Embassy’s initiative, highlighting the transformative power of literature in bridging cultural gaps and fostering empathy between nations. The act of sharing these literary treasures with Taichung City demonstrates Saint Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to promoting cross-cultural dialogue and enriching the lives of individuals through the power of storytelling.

Taichung City Deputy Mayor, Mr. Huang Kuo Jung, expressed the city’s enthusiasm in receiving this literary gift and ensuring its accessibility to all residents. The books will be prominently displayed in a new library, symbolizing the city’s commitment to cultural exchange and literary appreciation. Furthermore, an innovative online system will enable citizens across the city to borrow the books and have them delivered to their nearest library for convenient pick-up. This thoughtful approach ensures that the donated books reach a wider audience, maximizing their impact on promoting intercultural understanding within the community.

The book donation ceremony was further enlivened by a vibrant performance of the traditional masquerade dance by two Kittitian students, Howard Liburd and Jahmarley Riley, studying International Business and Trade at Ming Chuan University. This captivating display of cultural heritage added a dynamic element to the event, showcasing the richness and vibrancy of Saint Kitts and Nevisian traditions. By incorporating this cultural performance, the Embassy effectively brought to life the stories and traditions depicted within the donated books, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for the attendees.

This initiative marks the fifth book donation undertaken by the Embassy as part of its "Sharing Kindness and Nurturing Love—SKNLOVE" outreach program, showcasing its sustained commitment to fostering cultural exchange through literature. Previous donations have enriched the literary landscapes of Taipei City (June 2022), Kaohsiung City (March 2023), New Taipei City (March 2024), and Yunlin County (October 2024). This ongoing effort reflects the Embassy’s dedication to building bridges of understanding and appreciation between the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan through the shared love of reading and cultural exploration. By disseminating these literary works across various regions of Taiwan, the Embassy is effectively fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural diversity of Saint Kitts and Nevis, promoting a sense of global citizenship, and strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two nations.