Programs at Heights Libraries focus on Islamic culture

Earlier this year, the National Endowment for the Humanities awarded the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library the Muslim Journeys Bookshelf—a collection of books, films, and other resources designed to introduce the American public to the complex history and rich culture of Muslims in the United States and throughout the world. The materials are available at all four Heights Libraries branches: Lee Road, Coventry Village, Noble Neighborhood and University Heights.

Heights Libraries has also designed a special series of fall programs celebrating the collection, called Bridging Cultures: Muslim Journeys. Sam Lapides, Heights Libraries special projects coordinator, said, “These programs give our community the opportunity to learn about different aspects of the Muslim experience and culture, including literature, poetry, history, and art."

Oct. 14 at 6 p.m., University Heights Library
Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World
This 90-minute film takes audiences across nine countries and more than 1,400 years of history, exploring the richness of Islamic art.

Oct. 21 at 6 p.m., University Heights Library
Islamic Art Spots
An introduction to Islamic art and architecture in seven illustrated video essays.

Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., Noble Neighborhood Library
Quarterly SciFi/Fantasy Book Discussion: The Arabian Nights
Readers will discuss stories of harsh kings, demons, genies, beautiful brides, thieves, and fantastic creatures in this classic collection of fables, fairy tales and exotic adventures.

Nov. 6 at 7 p.m., Cleveland Museum of Art
The Splendor of Islamic Art
This special installment of the Library’s Art Study Group will feature a docent-led tour of the recently renovated Islamic Gallery at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Registration is required at www.heightslibrary.org.

Nov. 8 at 3 p.m., Cleveland State University, Woodling Gym (1983 East 24th St.) 
Walk Through the Islamic World
An interactive map walk, hosted by Dr. Stephen Cory of CSU, will highlight the Middle East, Mediterranean region, Africa, and Asia from an Islamic perspective. Registration required at www.heightslibrary.org.

Nov. 11 at 7 p.m., University Heights Library
Prince among Slaves: The Cultural Legacy of Enslaved Africans
This documentary film tells the story of Abdul Rahman, a West African man enslaved in Mississippi in 1788, who claimed to be an African prince.