Sonia Manzano Visits the Cook Library Center! 

On October 15th, we had the most wonderful pleasure of hosting Sonia Manzano, known for three decades as "Maria" on PBS's Sesame Street, at the Cook Library Center as a guest speaker. One of the first Hispanic Americans to appear on television, Mrs. Manzano has been honored by many organizations that include the Association of Hispanic Arts, Congressional Hispanic Caucus, National Hispanic Media Coalition, Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, and Hispanic Heritage Award for Education. She was also named by Latina Magazine in 2013 as one of the top 25 "Greatest Latino Role Models Ever." Her presentation included the importance of education, literacy and her experiences as a Latina writer, in addition to discussing family and heritage. The event was open to the public and coincided with Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th - October 15th). Mrs. Manzano recently wrote a new book titled “The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano,” which explores Latino heritage and civil rights in an accessible and historically poignant format. She read excerpts of the book to our students and also did book signings. This was especially exciting for our Cook Library Scholars students because they are currently reading her book! Having Mrs. Manzano as a guest in our community was a true honor and a wonderful, enriching experience for our students. 

Cook Library Scholars pose for a picture with Sonia! 

Listening intently to the presentation

Book signing!
Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities administers the programs of the Cook Arts Center and Cook Library Center.