As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s a perfect time to highlight the various resources available to the Latino community at the Deschutes Public Library.

Spanish-Language collection

The Deschutes Public Library offers a collection of bilingual and Spanish-language materials, spanning popular fiction, nonfiction, educational resources, and children’s literature. In addition to physical items, customers can access digital platforms like DPL Mobile, Libby, Hoopla, and Kanopy, where they can manage their account, borrow books, stream music, and watch TV shows or movies in Spanish.

Library of Things

Beyond traditional library materials, the Library of Things allows customers to borrow items like sewing machines, musical instruments, GoPros, cooking appliances, tools, and more. This service helps families and individuals access valuable items they may not have at home, enhancing creativity and practical learning. We also offer board games, DVDs, and WiFi hotspots.

Discovery Pass program

With a library card, customers can enjoy free access to local attractions through the Discovery Pass program. These include the Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory, the Deschutes Historical Museum and the High Desert Museum. Customers can also obtain a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit to access wilderness areas throughout the region.

Engaging programs for all ages

Our Spanish storytimes engage children through stories, songs, and activities that promote early literacy and bilingual development. We also host arts and crafts sessions where families can create together, fostering community connections.

Personalized support for adults

The Book-a-Librarian program offers one-on-one support in Spanish. Whether customers need help with job searches, research projects, learning library resources, or navigating technology, our librarians are here to assist.

The Lawyer in the Library program provides free legal advice on civil matters, with an interpreter available for Spanish-speaking customers. Additionally, Open Lab offers basic technology support in Spanish, available at our downtown branch on the first Thursday of the month.

Community resources

Throughout the year, we partner with local organizations to bring Spanish-language services to our customers. Thrive offers social services support, and during tax season, we provide Spanish-language tax preparation appointments.

Library tours

We offer library tours in Spanish, ensuring new customers feel comfortable and informed about all the services available. These tours are perfect for individuals or groups who are new to the library or the community.

With just a library card, a world of resources—from digital downloads to local experiences—is at your fingertips. We invite the Latino community to explore all that Deschutes Public Library has to offer.

For more information, contact Latino Community Librarian Diana Hernández at (541) 617-7075 or by email at dianah@deschuteslibrary.org.