A total of 28 performances were held at regional libraries through Outreach Grant funding authorized by the 1997 Minnesota Legislature. An Outreach Committee comprised of area public library staff set the focus of the grant project.
Libraries realize the role they play in bringing cultural events to their communities.
The program helped libraries fulfill this mission. Every performance was greeted by a warm, appreciative audience. Bear Runners, a Native American Drumming and Singing group, performed at the Faribault, Northfield, Wabasha and Zumbrota Public Libraries. There presentation included an explanation of how their religion is woven through their music and song. In addition to the culturally diverse performances, a Latino Outreach Workshop was held in September.