Nearly all cultures have a history of oral storytelling, but fewer and fewer participate in the practice this ancient craft. It’s not as easy as it seems, to keep a group entertained with only your voice! To honor this time old tradition, the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) will be host to a Japanese folklore program with professional storyteller Anne Shimojima at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 9 at the Eola Road Branch in Aurora.
Oral storytelling is the act of telling a story without the use of written text. Storytellers use their voices, gestures, and facial expressions to bring their stories to life. They may use props, music, and dance to enhance their performances. It is a powerful way to entertain, educate, and inspire a people. Storytelling is a valuable form of art that has something to offer everyone. “The Library offers children’s storytime all the time – but rarely a storytime for adults and older kids,” notes librarian, Megan Cavitt. “I don’t think any of us really grow out of’ hearing a good story, but we have fewer opportunities to do it as we get older.” Storyteller Anne Shimojima’s performances help preserve Japanese cultural traditions and values and we hope attendees will come away with a new appreciation for this art form..
Anne Shimojima discovered the power of stories during her 35-year-long career as an elementary school library media specialist. A third generation Japanese American born and raised in Chicago, she has been telling stories professionally for more than 40 years. Shimojima is passionate about sharing Japanese history and believes that stories have the power to help us understand different cultures and learn about the world around us. In 2022, Anne was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, conferred by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, for promoting Japanese culture in the United States and promoting friendly relations and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States (www.anneshimojima.com/about-anne.html).
Thanks to her extensive knowledge and experience, Shimojima is a frequent speaker at schools, libraries, and community events. “Other librarians have enthusiastically recommended Anne Shimojima to me,” added Cavitt. “APLD is always looking for people or organizations who are willing to share their cultural background with the community. It’s important that we have programs that reflect many different cultures and experiences.” Whether you are familiar with Japanese folklore or not, these magical. yet wise, stories are sure to leave you with an appreciation of the culture.
Sakura Tales will take place on the second floor at the Eola Road Branch in the Adult Quiet Reading Room Sunday, July 9 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. This storytelling program is appropriate for ages 10 and up and no registration is required. For more information, please visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/8383512 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.