Asian Library Blog

  • Kanako Nishi Book Display: Over Two Decades of Storytelling 

    In celebration of Japanese author 西加奈子 Kanako Nishi’s upcoming book talk at the UBC Asian Centre on April 24th, the Asian Library presents a display featuring a selection of her works from our collection. This display spans over two decades of writing and artistic work, featuring 32 works of fiction, nonfiction, children’s storybooks, and more.

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  • On writing and translating Sakura: A conversation with Kanako Nishi and Allison Markin Powell 

    Join Dr. Christina Laffin, associate professor of Japanese literature, for a conversation with Kanako Nishi and book translator Allison Markin Powell to discuss what the translation of Nishi’s bestselling novel, Sakura, means in the context of the rising popularity of Japanese fiction among English readers.

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  • Vibrant Vaisakhi: A Celebration of Spirit and Harvest

    Vaisakhi (or Baisakhi), typically celebrated on April 13 or 14, marks the spring harvest. It is a time for farmers to give thanks for an abundant harvest and pray for future prosperity. The festival is celebrated by the Sikh community in India and across the global Sikh diaspora. Vaisakhi also holds deep significance for Sikhs.

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  • Nowruz 2026: Rebirth and Renewal

    March 20th was Nowruz, which marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring in the Northern hemisphere. Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, has been celebrated for over 3,000 years across regions influenced by Persian culture. The Haft-Seen table is adorned with seven symbolic items, each beginning with the letter ‘S’ in Persian:

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  • A Legacy of Ink 墨韻傳承 – Event Recap

    Approximately 80 participants, including students, faculty, staff, and community members, joined the Asian Library for the Legacy of Ink event held at the Asian Centre Auditorium on the afternoon of January 29, 2026. The event offered an inspiring exploration of the legacy of Chinese calligraphy—a tradition that spans centuries and continues to shape Chinese cultural

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