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

The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis in Taiwan continues its commitment to cultural exchange and literary diplomacy through its “Sharing Kindness and Nurturing Love—SKNLOVE” outreach program. This initiative focuses on donating books authored by Kittitians and Nevisians to various cities across Taiwan, enriching the literary landscape and fostering greater understanding between the two nations. The most recent donation took place in Taichung City on April 23, 2025, coinciding with World Book and Copyright Day, a fitting tribute to the power of literature and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. This act symbolizes not just the donation of books, but the sharing of stories, traditions, and the very essence of Saint Kitts and Nevisian culture.

Six distinct literary works were presented to Taichung City’s Deputy Mayor, Mr. Huang Kuo Jung, by His Excellency Donya L. Francis, Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Ambassador to Taiwan. These books represent a diverse tapestry of Kittitian and Nevisian literature, encompassing children’s stories, cultural explorations, and personal narratives. Among them are ‘Masquerade Dance’ and ‘Adventure at Brimstone Hill’ by Carol Ottley-Mitchell, which likely delve into the vibrant cultural heritage of the islands. ‘My ABC Book About St. Kitts and Nevis’ by Kayrisa Kelly offers a playful introduction to the nation’s unique characteristics, while Keimon Archibald-Lake’s ‘Oma Lu’s visit’ promises a glimpse into the warmth and familial connections that shape Kittitian and Nevisian society. Vanessa Webbe’s ‘Cricket and Coconut Cake’ hints at an exploration of pastimes and culinary delights, while ‘Global Wings: Flying to Saint Kitts and Nevis’ offers a broader perspective, showcasing contributions from various individuals, including Ambassador Francis himself.

The significance of this book donation transcends the mere physical act of handing over volumes. Ambassador Francis eloquently articulated this point, describing the books not simply as bound pages, but as “windows into our history, our values, our aspirations and our people.” This metaphor encapsulates the essence of the SKNLOVE program, which aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation by providing access to authentic Kittitian and Nevisian voices. Through these literary works, readers in Taichung City gain invaluable insights into the heart and soul of a nation located thousands of miles away, bridging geographical divides and fostering a sense of global connection.

Taichung City’s reception of these books underscores its commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering literary engagement within its community. Deputy Mayor Huang’s enthusiasm for the donation and the city’s planned integration of the books into its library system highlight the value placed on these literary works. The online system, which will allow residents from across the city to borrow the books and have them delivered to their nearest library branch, demonstrates a dedication to accessibility and inclusivity. This ensures that the stories within these books reach a wide audience, enriching the lives of Taichung City residents and promoting a deeper understanding of Saint Kitts and Nevisian culture.

The book donation ceremony in Taichung City was further enlivened by a vibrant cultural performance by Kittitian students Howard Liburd and Jahmarley Riley, who are pursuing undergraduate studies in International Business and Trade at Ming Chuan University. Their performance of the masquerade dance, a traditional form of expression in Saint Kitts and Nevis, added a dynamic and captivating element to the event. This performance not only showcased the rich artistic heritage of the islands but also symbolized the vibrant cultural exchange facilitated by the SKNLOVE program. By incorporating both literary and artistic elements, the event fostered a more holistic understanding and appreciation of Saint Kitts and Nevisian culture.

This donation to Taichung City marks the fifth instance of the Embassy’s SKNLOVE book donation initiative, demonstrating a sustained commitment to promoting cultural exchange and fostering stronger ties between Saint Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. Previous donations to Taipei City in June 2022, Kaohsiung City in March 2023, New Taipei City in March 2024, and Yunlin County in October 2024, highlight the Embassy’s dedication to reaching diverse communities across Taiwan. This ongoing effort emphasizes the importance of cultural diplomacy and the power of literature to bridge cultural divides and build lasting connections between nations. The SKNLOVE program stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between Saint Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s unique cultural heritage.