Libraries
The Muslim community, like many others, has faced under-representation and is, at times, misunderstood. This situation can contribute to bias and hate-related crimes. To combat this, we believe that education and inclusion are pivotal. By offering opportunities for education and showcasing the rich history and heritage of Muslims, we aim not only to celebrate the community but also to send a clear message that our library welcomes and celebrates all residents of New Jersey.
To address the above, we encourage local Muslim community representatives and coalition partners to contact the local library directors for collaboration. Email or call them to introduce yourself and share the attached letter with the list of recommended books, movies, and posters that can be part of the displays during Muslim Heritage Month.
We appreciate your dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in our larger New Jersey community.
Ideas for Muslim Heritage Month:
These ideas aim to create an engaging and informative environment, fostering understanding and appreciation for Muslim heritage. Please feel free to share any concerns, questions, or additional ideas you may have. We look forward to working together to make our library a space that celebrates the diversity of our community.
Interactive Displays:
- Host storytelling sessions focusing on Ramadan-themed books for children.
Recipe Collection:
- Compile a collection of recipes that celebrate the diverse cuisine during Ramadan.
Cultural Workshops:
- Organize workshops or presentations on Ramadan traditions, customs, and its importance.
Film Screenings:
- Feature films or documentaries that provide insights into Ramadan practices.
Art Exhibitions:
- Showcase artwork inspired by Ramadan themes.
- These ideas aim to foster understanding, celebrate cultural diversity, and engage communities during Muslim Heritage Month and Ramadan. Feel free to adapt and customize based on your community’s preferences and resources.
Posters for the Art Wall: Order specific posters, including:
- What do Muslims believe?
- Who were some of the great Muslim scientists and thinkers?
- Who are American Muslims?
- I Am A Muslim (basics) Link to Poster
Poster of Famous Mosques:
- Highlight the racial diversity of Islam with posters featuring famous mosques:
- Mud Mosque of Timbuktu
- Masjid an Nabawi in Medina
- Blue Mosque of Istanbul
- Hassan Mosque of Morocco
- Great Omari Mosque of Palestine
- Istiqlal Mosque of Indonesia
- Great Mosque of Xi’an in China
- Crystal Mosque, Malaysia
- Jama Masjid in India
- Great Mosque of Djenne in Mali
- Masjid Wazir Khan in Lahore, Pakistan
- Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Famagusta, Cyprus
Movies and Videos
- Aljazari’s Automatic Water Pump (1001 Inventions)
- Peg and Cat The Eid al-Adha Adventure – Read Aloud by Reading Owl
- Islam Explained
- Al Aqsa, 360° tour of Jerusalem’s holiest mosque
- Pilgrimage: A 21st Century Journey Through Mecca and Medina | 360 VR Video | The New York Times
- Islam Through Its Scriptures
List of MHM Participating Libraries & Schools
| Al Falah Center |
| Bridgewater |
| Chester |
| Clinton/north branch |
| Demarest |
| East Brunswick |
| East Windsor |
| Essex County |
| Evesham |
| Fairlawn |
| Franklin |
| Franklin Township |
| Hamilton |
| Highland Park |
| Hightstown |
| Hightstown Library |
| Hillsborough |
| Hoboken |
| Hudson County |
| Hunterdon County Library |
| Jersey City |
| Lawrenceville |
| Mahwah |
| Malboro library |
| Menlo Park Mall |
| Monroe |
| Moorestown |
| Mount Laurel |
| Mount Olive library |
| New Brunswick |
| North Branch |
| Parsippany |
| Piscataway |
| Princeton Library |
| River Vale Township |
| Robbinsville |
| Scotch-Plains |
| Somerset County |
| Somerville |
| South Brunswick |
| Teaneck |
| Union City |
| Wayne |
| West Windsor |
| Woodbridge |