Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month was first established as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was expanded in 1988, by President Ronald Reagan, to a 30-day period from September 15 to October 15. Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States, with over 50 million total speakers. This makes the United States the second largest Spanish speaking country in the world after Mexico. September 15 is significant, as it represents the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Those of us at the University Libraries hope you will take a moment to read a book, watch a film, or listen to music or an audiobook from our collections to celebrate this culturally rich heritage. Be sure to take an opportunity to enjoy many of the Clemson Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebrations.
