A Celebration of Legacy, Community, and the Future

Today we stand at a crossroads of history and hope, as three milestones converge into one unforgettable celebration:

• The Closing of International Library Week 2026
• The 38th Anniversary of our beloved Library
• The Handover Ceremony of the Direct Aid Program

We honor the visionaries who laid this foundation, and we celebrate the hands and hearts that continue to nurture it. Their dedication reminds us that a library thrives because of its people. In addition, beyond these walls, it thrives because of you, our community, our supporters, our friends.

As we close International Library Week, we do not simply end a program, we carry forward its spirit. As we mark 38 years of service, we do not only look back, we look ahead to the next generation of learners. For nearly four decades, our library has been more than walls and shelves. It has been a living heartbeat of our community, a place where children discover the joy of reading, where students find guidance for their dreams, and where families gather to share culture and connection. Each milestone we celebrate today is a reminder that this library is not only a keeper of books, but a keeper of stories, values, and aspirations.

As part of the celebration of our 38th Anniversary, we have the honor of having Professor Susan Moses as our guest speaker. Mrs. Moses’ lifelong dedication to education and literacy has touched countless lives in Pohnpei and across Micronesia. From developing reading materials in the Pohnpeian language to leading programs that strengthened inclusive learning, her vision reflects the very mission of our library. It is with deep gratitude that we invite her to share her words with us on this 38th Anniversary of the Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library. Our heartfelt thank you to Professor Moses for the simple yet engaging speech.

Moreover, as we accept the Direct Aid Program, we do not just receive support, we embrace the responsibility to keep this library alive, vibrant, and welcoming. The Direct Aid Program (DAP) represents far more than financial support. It is a symbol of trust, partnership, and the belief that investing in knowledge is investing in the future. It reflects the strength of collaboration between governments, organizations, and the people who walk through our library doors every day. Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library is deeply fortunate to have been selected as a recipient of this program. This honor is not just about funding, it is about recognition of the vital role our library plays in preserving culture, nurturing education, and strengthening community bonds. This year’s project, “the Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library Heritage Preservation and Digitisation Project Partnership”, embodies that shared commitment. It is a promise to safeguard our stories, our traditions, and our collective memory, while opening new pathways for future generations to access and learn from them. We are deeply honored to welcome Chargé d’Affaires Mrs. Sarah McCarthy, together with Senior Program Manager Mrs. Roan Capacungan, representing the Australian Embassy in presenting this generous funding. On behalf of the Board and Staff of the Pohnpei Public Library, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for this invaluable support.

May this day remind us of the joy of learning, the strength of community, and the promise of the future. Together, we celebrate not only what has been achieved, but also what is yet to come.

Kalahngan, thank you, and let us continue this journey together.