Latinx community and heritage will be the focus of a month-long series of activities set to be hosted by the Livermore Public Library this fall.

The library has announced a string of events in celebration of the upcoming Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from this week through Oct. 15 and honors culture, history and traditions of Latinx and Hispanic people in various ways. The library will be hosting these free events both in-person and online.

"Our mission is to connect all people with information, education, and inspiring experiences to foster community," said Jacquelyn Martinez, a librarian in Livermore. "The library is celebrating Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month to honor and celebrate the rich, diverse history of Latinx, Hispanic, and Latino-identified Americans ... by providing events and resources that recognized and celebrated their achievements and contributions."

Martinez said the specific activities were brainstormed by library staff. Although she encourages attendance at all events, main activities will showcase Latinx and Hispanic literature and performance art.

The Authors and Arts Series is a discussion-based forum relating to art, history, and cultural resilience by Latinx/Hispanic presenters, according to Martinez.

The activities incorporate various cultures from Latino cultures around the world, like Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico and others.

Aztec dancing will be performed by In Lak'Ech Danza Azteca, a traditional dance and drumming group. Martinez said the demonstration is poised to "educate the community on an indigenous culture that is still relevant in Mexico and America."

Other highlights to look out for include craft projects and free movie night. Library staff hope these activities will encourage the community to respectfully interact with the hosted gatherings.

"We hope to empower the community to study and honor Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month," Martinez said. "The library is a safe, inclusive space for all. We encourage life-long learning."

To find more information, dates and times, visit library.livermoreca.gov.

In-person events

Sept. 15 to Oct. 15: Pick up a free Take & Make craft kit with a Taino rock carvings tool set at any Livermore Public Library branch.

Sept. 16: Free movie night hosted at Rincon Library will show a children's Disney movie, in partnership with the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic items or seating.

Sept. 19: The Rincon Library will host a game of the Mexican bingo game, Loteria. Participants are able to win prizes and other items.

Sept. 20: Learn about the history of Guatemalan Worry Dolls, and make one as well, at the Springtown Library. Supplies to be provided while lasting.

Sept. 23: Create a Mola Craft, paper Columbian craft, at the Rincon Library.

Sept. 24: In Lak'Ech Danza Azteca will perform at Civic Center Library traditional Aztec dance and drumming. Visitors will also learn about indigenous culture and history in this demonstration.

Oct. 3: In Lak'Ech Danza Azteca is to perform once more at Rincon Library, showing traditional Aztec dance and drumming.

Oct. 4: Mexican Tin Art is an event hosted for teens, grades 6-12. Supplies will be provided as available at Springtown Library. Guests are to register beforehand.

Oct. 5: Mexican Tin Art for teens event will appear at Civic Center Library.

Oct. 7: Mexican Tin Art hosted at Rincon Library will be the final craft of this kind for the Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month.

Oct. 11: Civic Center Library will also host a game of Loteria, the Mexican bingo game.

Zoom events

Sept. 20: Authors and Arts presents "Flying Free" with Cecillia Aragon, an award-winning author.

Sept. 29: Authors and Arts features artist Rosie Mottsmith, who will be interviewed about her art and creative process.

Oct. 13: The final Authors and Arts event will highlight "From Walls to Bridges" with Marisa Villegas.