Explore Hispanic Culture through the New Jersey Hispanic Research and Information Center

The NJHRIC collection offers a wealth of resources for and about people of Hispanic heritage.

A considerable portion of the US population, close to 19 percent, is Latino, and this population has left its mark on the nation. From unique cultural phenomena to a rich history, there are so many smaller components that make up Hispanic culture, each of which deserves to be studied in its own right.

With Hispanic Heritage Month being observed from September 15 to October 15, there’s no better time to discuss one of the country's most important centers for Hispanic cultural research: the New Jersey Hispanic Research and Information Center or NJHRIC. Here’s everything you need to know. 

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The Importance of Diverse Access to Information

When building a cultural research center like the NJHRIC, it’s important to consider the wide range of patrons who are likely to attend. Attendees won’t just be scholars or well-educated people looking to learn more about Hispanic culture—there will also be laymen simply looking to read about and connect with their heritage.

To accomplish this, the NJHRIC consists of three components with their own distinct purposes. First is the Sala Hispanoamericana, a Spanish-language collection of resources for Hispanic immigrants.

Second is the Hispanic Reference Collection, which consists of English and Spanish resources for scholars, academics, and those looking to study Hispanic culture and literature on a deeper level.

Third is the Puerto Rican Community Archives, which brings together a wide range of firsthand records and resources pertaining to Puerto Rican culture and history.

Each of these components plays an important role in the preservation and distribution of information on the Hispanic community. Having this information available means that Hispanic Americans can gain a greater understanding of their heritage, while non-Hispanics can learn more about how to be an ally to their neighbors.

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How the NJHRIC Supports the Hispanic Community

While the information and resources provided by the NJHRIC are valuable enough by themselves, those in charge of it continually look for more ways to support the Hispanic community. To this end, they regularly organize and promote events that unite the Hispanic community and bring Hispanic culture center stage. 

From literary discussions to cultural gatherings, the NJHRIC provides countless opportunities for New Jersey Hispanic Americans to come together and for non-Hispanics to join them and learn. It’s gatherings like these that are the key to cultural unity in our nation, and we hope that the tradition continues to grow.

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