American Shelf

Oita American Shelf Opening

Book reading at an American Shelf partner institution

The Fukuoka American Center’s American Shelf Project is a Public Diplomacy program created and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Under this program, the Fukuoka American Center, partner with local libraries and institutions, which provide a book shelf designated as an "American Shelf," and the Fukuoka American Center donates books and other materials related to the United States.  Through sharing these documents, we promote mutual understanding and provide opportunities to learn about America’s society, history, culture and values. The Fukuoka American Center and the partner institution also co-host cultural events such as cultural seminars, storytelling in English and music concerts to deepen cultural exchange with local audience.

Building Lasting Relationship

• The first American Shelf in Japan was established at the Fukui International Association in August 2005, and the first American Shelf in Kyushu/Yamaguchi region opened at the Miyazaki Prefectural Library in March 2010.
• Under the American Shelf Project, the Fukuoka American Center provides:

1. Reference and information support through the Fukuoka American Center and our network of American Center libraries throughout Japan,
2. American cultural programs and other activities of U.S.-Japan interest, and
3. Training and consultations for Japanese library staff.

• Under the American Shelf Project, the partner institution provides:

1. Maintenance and easy access to the American Shelf materials,
2. Support for the cultural programs provided by the Fukuoka American Center, and
3. Assistance in providing visitors with information about the United States (via consultation with the Fukuoka American Center Library, if necessary).

Partner Institutions

• Miyazaki Prefectural Library
• Oita Prefectural Library
• Sasebo City Library 
• Saga University Library (will open Spring 2013)