• 2022-07-04

The National Central Library (NCL), For the first time, has established a Resource Center for Taiwan Studies in the Library of the Congress (LC), the Argentine Nation. This collaborative agreement was signed by Director-General Shu-hsien Tseng, the NCL, and General Coordinating Director Alejandro Santa, the LC. On behalf of Director-General Tseng, the sign unveiling and book donation were handled by Taipei Commercial and Cultural Office in Argentina.  

During the signing ceremony, both parties opted to sign in person. Video feed was sent to the other country to share what was happening onsite and to be able to interact with each other. Approximately 120 persons were in attendance, including Argentinian politicians, businessmen, educators, and the representatives of overseas Taiwanese community. Director-General Tseng stated during her remarks that the Resource Center for Taiwan Studies is NCL’s first abroad. An agreement was also signed regarding comprehensive collaboration between the two sides. The reason a Resource Center for Taiwan Studies was set up was because the party signing the agreement was the Library of the Congress, the Argentine Nation. This library provides all sorts of general services for people from all sectors. So, this is the first time a collaborative center was set up using the name “Resource Center for Taiwan Studies.” In the future, it will provide shared library resources, government publications, and research reports. These will include library materials that highlight successful experiences in various fields and areas, including economics, agriculture, the technology industry, democratic system, etc. These resources will aid congressmen, university and research institute researchers, as well as patrons come to know and understand Taiwan.

During the online signing ceremony, Board Chair of the Library and Member of the Congress Carlos Selva, and General Coordinating Director Alejandro Santa expressed that today’s collaborative project is the beginning of many exchanges and collaborations between the libraries. Furthermore, they hope to be inspired by NCL’s reader services, digital ideas, and related services. Director Santa stated that this collaboration will help NCL and libraries in Central and South America expand areas of collaboration and exchanges. During the ceremony, the Library of Congress arranged for an opera performance and singing “High Mountains Are Green.” The NCL also arranged for a performance of Taiwan folksongs. Both parties shared the beauty of their cultures. The ceremony ended with the beautiful sounds of Taiwan folk music.