Ramsey County Library is proud to partner with the Somali Museum in Minneapolis for a series of programs aimed at understanding and celebrating Somali culture in North America. The museum showcases the rich heritage and artistic traditions of Somali culture, making it the only Somali-focused museum of its kind in the country.
The museum is bringing interactive exhibits, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops that connect generations and share the beauty of Somali art and history to Ramsey County Library in April. These programs are available for all ages, and there is no cost to participate.
While you wait for these programs, check out the booklists compiled by RCL staff.
Celebrating Somali Americans in Minnesota and Beyond, opens a new window
Young Adult Reads about the Immigrant and Refugee Experience, opens a new window
Memoirs of Immigration, opens a new window
Find additional books about Somali culture and books for Somali-language readers in our catalog.
We look forward to seeing you at these programs in April!
Traditional Finger Weaving
Using no loom or frame, Somali nomads would weave mats by hand to cover their houses. Join us at the library to learn more about this traditional weaving technique and try it for yourself.
Drop in any time during the two-hour window to learn and listen to the stories and experiences that shape this beautiful craft from the Somali Museum's weaving instructors.
Monday, April 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., opens a new window
RCL-Mounds View
Tuesday, April 14, , opens a new window5:30–7:30 p.m.
RCL-New Brighton
Appropriate for all ages. Materials provided at no cost.
Somali Culture 101
Join us for this special program, in partnership with the Somali Museum, to learn more about Somali culture through a showcase of artifacts from the museum's collections.
This lecture and exploration of objects gives participants a deeper understanding of the impact that cultural traditions have on the lives of Somali Minnesotans today.
Thursday, April 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
RCL-Roseville
Appropriate for all ages.
Somali Museum Dance Troupe
Join us at the library for a vibrant performance by the museum's dance troupe, exploring and celebrating Somali culture through movement.
Traditional dance is a timeless art form that cultivates deep cultural bonds and boundless creative expression that transcends generations. The dance troupe at the Somali Museum brings together Somali American youth to study dances from all regions of Somalia as a way to embrace and celebrate their roots.
Saturday, April 18, 2-2:30 p.m., opens a new window
RCL-Shoreview
Saturday, April 25, 2-2:30 p.m. , opens a new window
RCL - Maplewood
All ages welcome.