Since launching in 2024, the World Languages program at the Hornell Public Library has brought local families together to explore languages and cultures through interactive storytimes, music, crafts and activities.

Now in its ninth season, the program features six to eight languages each season and has introduced participants to 14 languages. The initiative celebrates Hornell’s growing diversity, with 18 different languages spoken throughout the community.

For Elizabeth Rosales-Cordova, a program organizer and parent of a North Hornell Elementary School student, the idea began with a desire to find a sense of belonging.

After moving to Hornell when her son was just seven months old, Rosales-Cordova wanted to connect with other families and celebrate her cultural heritage. Together with Cristina Merli, a business teacher at Hornell High School, she helped establish a welcoming space where immigrant families could share their native languages and help their children stay connected to their roots.

What began as a gathering place for immigrant families has grown into a community-wide celebration, building connections between families of different backgrounds.

Merli, who moved to Hornell three years ago, also shares her native Italian language through the program’s interactive storytimes, introducing children to Italian language and culture through songs, stories and hands-on activities.

Each session begins with a welcome song, followed by music and a story in the featured language. Families receive a copy of the book to take home and participate in a related craft or activity. The program has benefited from strong parent participation and the involvement of local educators and volunteers, including Hornell City School District staff and participants from Alfred State and Alfred University.

The Hornell Public Library has also expanded its multicultural offerings through its Global Hub and displays featuring books in different languages, encouraging families to explore literature from around the world.

For Rosales-Cordova, the program’s greatest success has been the connections it has created between immigrant and local families, helping everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Through the dedication of educators like Merli, local families and community partners, the World Languages program is helping children discover new cultures while strengthening the connections that make Hornell feel like home.

To learn more, visit sites.google.com/view/globaltales.