CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library

Exploring Dominican Heritage: A Colorful Collection of Children's Books by Jasdomin Santana Joins CUNY DSI Library

The books generously donated by Jasdomin to the library, September 4, 2024

The CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library is thrilled to announce a special donation of nineteen books from the talented children's author Jasdomin Santana. This collection includes several of Santana's recent publications, showcasing her dedication to sharing Dominican culture and heritage with young readers. The donated titles reflect numerous stories, from cultural explorations to imaginative adventures. Some of the featured works include:

• Colors of Quisqueya
• Cinderalys La Princesa Dominicana
• Dominican ABCs
• My Mom is Dominican: Sayings from the Heart
• Gameress Squad
• Mangú con Los Tres Golpes: The School Adventures of Plantain, Salami, Fried Egg, and Fried Cheese
• The Galactic Güira: A Dominican Adventura in Space
• Dominican 123
• Frutas y Friends: Embracing Our Names
• Besa la Mano: Embracing Respect and Heritage
• Morir Soñando: The Dream Weaver

Each of these books offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic, and of Dominicans living in the United States, combining engaging stories with valuable life lessons. We are immensely grateful to Jasdomin for this generous contribution, which will provide a fresh perspective for educators, researchers, and families exploring Dominican history, values, and language.

We invite our community to explore this vibrant collection at the CUNY DSI Library. We look forward to incorporating these works into future workshops and educational programs.

Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

Agradecemos la Generosa Donación de Dos Nuevas Obras a Nuestra Colección

Hortensia González-Gómez y Miriam Mejía Campos firmando sus libros en la biblioteca, 4 de septiembre de 2024.

Hoy, extendemos nuestro más sincero agradecimiento a las escritoras Hortensia González-Gómez y Miriam Mejía Campos por su grata visita a nuestra biblioteca y la donación de ejemplares firmados de sus respectivas obras. Nos complace añadir estos libros a nuestra colección, donde estarán disponibles para lectores e investigadores interesados en profundizar en sus contribuciones.

De izquierda a derecha: Hortensia González Gómez, Párrafos del alma y de otras latitudes (Ediciones FemLibro, 2012), y Míriam Mejía Campos, Color magenta (Editorial Letra Erguida, 2021).

Estamos agradecidos por su tiempo y por contribuir a la misión de nuestra biblioteca, ayudándonos a seguir fomentando el conocimiento y el amor por la literatura. ¡Gracias nuevamente por su visita!

Dr. Andrés Merejo visita y dona nuevas obras a la biblioteca

Dr. Andrés Merejo con ejemplares de sus publicaciones en la biblioteca, 20 de junio de 2024

Agradecemos al Dr. Andrés Merejo por haber donado dos de sus últimos libros, Cibermundo transido: Enredo gris de pospandemia, guerra y ciberguerra y Filosofía para tiempos transidos y cibernéticos, a la Biblioteca del Instituto de Estudios Dominicanos (CUNY DSI, por sus siglas en inglés) de CUNY. Estas obras se adentran en las complejidades del mundo cibernético moderno y en los fundamentos filosóficos de nuestros tiempos transitorios, proporcionando una visión inestimable para estudiantes, académicos y  para aquellos interesados en la intersección de la tecnología, la sociedad y el pensamiento.

Los dos libros donados a la biblioteca, 20 de junio de 2024

Gracias de nuevo al Dr. Merejo por su visita y amable donación de sus publicaciones. El Dr. Merejo es Director de Fomento y Difusión de la Ciencia y la Tecnología, y Viceministro de Ciencia y Tecnología.

Jhensen Ortiz, Bibliotecario

Celebrating Dr. Lissette Acosta Corniel: A Scholar's Journey and Heartfelt Donation to the CUNY DSI Library

Dr. Acosta Corniel dedicating a copy of Transatlantic Bondage to the library, June 6, 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Acosta Corniel holding the copy of Transatlantic Bondage she donated to the library, June 6, 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The CUNY Dominican Studies Institute (CUNY DSI) Library is delighted to celebrate the achievements of Dr. Lissette Acosta Corniel, a former CUNY DSI postdoctoral fellow and an enduring collaborator whose dedication and contributions have significantly enriched our academic community. Dr. Acosta Corniel has recently edited her first book, Transatlantic Bondage: Slavery and Freedom in Spain, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Rico. SUNY Press, 2024, and has kindly donated a copy to the CUNY DSI Library.

Dr. Acosta Corniel has a long-standing relationship with CUNY DSI, having been featured in our blog before. Notably, in both 2011 and 2014, she donated her doctoral dissertation, Towards A Theory about Spanish Women in Sixteenth Century Hispaniola. Her dissertation has been an invaluable resource for scholars delving into the early history of Hispaniola and the pivotal role of Spanish women during the sixteenth century.

Beyond her published works, Dr. Acosta Corniel has made significant contributions to essential digital resources at CUNY DSI. She was instrumental in the development of the First Blacks in the Americas/Los Primeros Negros En Las Américas and the Spanish Paleography Digital Teaching and Learning Tool. These projects have greatly enhanced the accessibility and understanding of primary sources related to Dominican and Latin American history, serving as crucial tools for researchers and educators alike.

This summer, Dr. Acosta Corniel continues to inspire and educate as she co-teaches a groundbreaking undergraduate course titled "El Gagá: An Exploration of Afro-Dominican Culture" at The City College of New York. This course, which runs from June 3 to 28, is co-taught with our second Threatened Scholar Fellow, Jonathan De Oleo Ramos. It provides students with a unique and immersive exploration of the rich cultural traditions and practices of the Afro-Dominican community.

Dr. Acosta Corniel’s edited book, Transatlantic Bondage, delves into the complex histories of slavery and freedom across Spain, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Rico, illuminating the interconnectedness of these regions and their shared histories of struggle and resilience. The scholars who contributed chapters to this book are Aurelia Martín Casares, Rocío Periáñez Gómez, Anthony R. Stevens-Acevedo, Lissette Acosta Corniel, Jacqueline Jiménez Polanco, David M. Stark, and Jorge L. Chinea. Dr. Acosta Corniel's donation to the CUNY DSI Library ensures that this vital work will be accessible to future generations of scholars and students.

We are incredibly proud of Dr. Acosta Corniel’s accomplishments and deeply grateful for her continued support and engagement with the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute. Her scholarship, generosity, and dedication to education embody the spirit of our institute, and we look forward to celebrating many more of her achievements in the years to come.

Join us in honoring Dr. Lissette Acosta Corniel for her outstanding contributions and her unwavering commitment to advancing our understanding of Dominican history and culture.

Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

 

 

Celebrating a Generous Donation: Maria Elena "Cuqui" Pacheco's Tribute to Johnny Pacheco

Donated copy of Johnny Pacheco: Tres de café, dos de azúcar, y ponle ¡salsa!. Banreservas, 2023

We are delighted to announce a generous donation to the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library made by Maria Elena "Cuqui" Pacheco, widow of the legendary salsa pioneer Johnny Pacheco (1935-2021). She has gifted us a collector's edition of the book "Johnny Pacheco: Tres de café, dos de azúcar, y ponle ¡salsa!" by Juan A. Moreno-Velázquez. Published last year by Banreservas, this is the first and only book that thoroughly chronicles the life and contributions of maestro Johnny Pacheco.

Johnny Pacheco's indelible mark on the world of salsa music is beautifully captured in this exclusive volume, making it an invaluable resource for our library. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Maria Elena "Cuqui" Pacheco for her thoughtful donation, which will undoubtedly inspire and educate future generations about the rich history and cultural impact of Johnny Pacheco's extraordinary musical journey.

Readers can find additional information about Pacheco's musical contributions to the history of Dominican music in the United States by visiting our website: dominicanmusicusa.com.

By Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

Books That Matter: Jonathan De Oleo Ramos's Donation Celebrates Afro-Dominican Heritage

From left to right: Professor Sarah Aponte, Jonathan De Oleo Ramos, and Librarian Jhensen Ortiz, May 17, 2024

CUNY Dominican Studies Institute (CUNY DSI) Library is delighted to announce a generous book donation from our second threatened scholar, Jonathan De Oleo Ramos, who will join us as a resident in the summer of 2024. Jonathan, a distinguished social scientist, educator, cultural activist, and researcher, focuses on social justice and Afro-Dominican culture in the Dominican Republic. His donation includes a copy of his most recent publication, "Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo," which explores the rich traditions of Dominican brotherhoods dedicated to the Holy Spirit. This work is a profound addition to our understanding of religious and cultural practices in the Dominican Republic.

The Donated Books

Jonathan's donation includes a rich array of works that provide valuable insights into Afro-Dominican culture and history:

1. Boletín Museo del Hombre Dominicano, Boletín 30 año XXVIII-Núm. 30-2001.
2. Boletín Museo del Hombre Dominicano, Boletín 32 año XXIX-Núm. 32-2002.
3. León de la Barra, Pablo.Yaguate año 1. núm. 1-2023.
4. León de la Barra, Pablo.Yaguate año 1. núm. 2-2023.
5. Centro Cultural Banreservas, Reservas arte y cultura edición 4. Julio de 2023.
6. De Oleo Ramos, Jonathan. Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo. Platón Ediciones, 2023.
7. Tavarez María, Clenis. Anamuya: Patrimonio aborigen del este de República Dominicana. Instituto Panamericano de geografia e historia seccion nacional de dominicana, 2023.
8. Ministerio de cultura, etc. Guía de los primeros ingenios de américa. Ministerio de cultura, 2024.
9. Rosario, Reina. Raíces de la identidad dominicana. Ediciones CP, 2016.
10. Rosenberg, June C. El Gagá: religión y sociedad de un culto dominicano: un estudio comparativo. Comisión Nacional Dominicana, 2021.
11. Ávila Suero, Víctor. Comisarios, toros y peregrinos hacia los santuarios del este. Instituto Panamericano de geografía e historia sección nacional de dominicana, 2014.
12. Santana, Josué and Edis Sánchez. La música folclórica dominicana. Instituto Panamericano de geografía e historia sección nacional de dominicana, 2022.

Jonathan De Oleo Ramos holding a copy of his book Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo, May 17, 2024

Upcoming Course on Afro-Dominican Culture

In addition to his literary contributions, Jonathan will co-teach a pioneering undergraduate course titled "El Gagá: An Exploration of Afro-Dominican Culture" from June 3 to 28 at The City College of New York. This hybrid class offers a unique opportunity to learn about vibrant Afro-Dominican cultural and religious practices. To learn more click here.

Welcoming Jonathan De Oleo Ramos

We are honored to welcome Jonathan to CUNY DSI and are grateful for his generous donation. These books will serve as valuable resources for students, researchers, and anyone interested in studying and understanding the rich and complex heritage of the Dominican Republic, particularly its Afro-Dominican communities. Jonathan's residency and contributions will undoubtedly enrich our community and further our mission to promote understanding of Dominican heritage.

Stay tuned for more information on our resources and exciting donations for the remainder of the year.

By Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

A Gift of Legacy: Julia Álvarez's Donation of a Rare Second Edition of Poesías by Salomé Ureña

Welcome to our first blog post of 2024, where we celebrate a heartwarming act of generosity by acclaimed Dominican-American author Julia Álvarez. Álvarez, known for her captivating storytelling and insightful exploration of the country’s historical and cultural themes, recently donated a rare second edition copy of Poesías by Salomé Ureña de Henríquez (1850-97) poet and educator to the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute (CUNY DSI) Library, enriching its collection and honoring the legacy of Dominican literature.

Ureña de Henríquez, Salomé. Poesías. Madrid: Tipográfica “Europa,” 1920.

Donating a rare second edition copy of Poesías holds significant meaning for Álvarez. She received this precious volume as a gift from the renowned Cuban intellectual and literary critic Ricardo Repilado (1916-2003) during her visit to Cuba in 1997. This personal connection speaks to the bonds that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries and reflects the interconnectedness of the literary world[1].

Julia Álvarez with Cuban intellectual and literary critic Ricardo Repilado (1916-2003) who gifted her his copy of Salomé Ureña’s collection of poetry. Photo taken by her husband in Santiago de Cuba, circa 1997.

The donation of Poesías is not just a literary contribution, but also a personal testament to the profound impact of Salomé Ureña's work on Álvarez. This second edition serves as a reference and inspiration for her novel In the Name of Salomé, published in 2002. In this masterful blend of historical fiction and poetic imagination, Álvarez brings to life the captivating story of Salomé Ureña and her daughter Camila Henríquez Ureña (1894-1973), who grew up in exile.

Inside the book, Álvarez preserved a republished magazine cutout featuring Salomé’s poignant poem "Umbral (A mi esposo)" alongside four original stamps commemorating the 100th anniversary of Salomé's death in 1997. This act not only enriches the library's collection but also adds layers of personal and historical connection to the literary artifact.

Republished magazine cut out of Salome’s poem Umbral (A mi eposo) originally written in April of 1894[1].

 

[1] Ureña de Henríquez, Salomé. Poesías Completas. Santo Domingo: Secretaría de Estado de Educación, Bellas Artes y Cultos, 1975, 185, https://issuu.com/librosdominicanosenpdf/docs/salom__ure_a_de_henr_quez_-_poes_as

. Accessed 19 April 2024.

      

Commemorative stamp to honor 100^th year anniversary of Salomé Ureña’s death on March 6, 1997 issued by Instituto Postal Dominicano[1].

 

[1] "Centenario muerte Salomé Ureña." Sellos Dominicanos, March of 1997, https://sellosdominicanos.blogspot.com/1997/03/centenario-muerte-salome-urena.html

 .Accessed 19 April 2024. 

Álvarez's donation not only honors Salomé's legacy but also symbolizes the cyclical nature of literary inspiration. Just as Ureña's poetry influenced Álvarez's novel, this rare edition of her work will inspire future generations of scholars, writers, and readers at the CUNY DSI Library. 

Thank you again, Julia, for your donation and for reminding us of the power of literature to connect us across time and space.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and donations in our upcoming blog posts. Happy reading, and may your literary journeys be filled with discovery and inspiration!

By Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

 

[1] This edition of Salomé verses was published in 1920. It has a prologue, without signature, written by her son, Dr. Pedro Henríquez Ureña. It omits the poem “Anacaona” and nine compositions from the 1880 first edition. See Silveria R. de Rodríguez Demorizi. Salomé Ureña de Henríquez. Buenos Aires: Imprenta López, 1944, 9,

 http://www.cielonaranja.com/salome-bio.pdf. Accessed 19 April 2024.

Professor Emeritus Michiel Baud donates rare and valuable book collection to the library

The most recent contribution to the library significantly broadens and enhances our understanding of the Dominican Republic's history and society throughout various periods.  

Prof. Michiel Baud, a retired faculty member of the Department of Latin American Studies at the University of Amsterdam and former Director of CEDLA (Centre for Latin American Research and Documentation) from 2000 until 2018, his research focused on the Dominican Republic, southern Ecuador, and northern Brazil.

Dr. Baud obtained the books from the private collection of his PhD mentor, Harry Hoetink (1931-2005), an influential figure among the initial cohort of post-World War II scholars. Hoetink was instrumental in redefining perceptions of race and color within the broader Caribbean context[1]. Hoetnik is remembered for his seminal work The Dominican People 1850-1900: Notes for a Historical Sociology, initially published in Spanish in 1971[2]. Additionally, Hoetink was married to Ligial Espinal, the daughter of Andrés Julio Espinal, who served as the ambassador/consul of the Dominican Republic in Curaçao during the Trujillo era. Ligial's connections facilitated Hoetink's introduction to Dominican society and enriched his research on the Dominican Republic[3]. 

The following is a list of donated books from the collection:

1. Al amor del bohio: tradiciones y costumbres dominicanas, tomo 1" (V. Montalvo, 1927)
2. "Al amor del bohio: tradiciones y costumbres dominicanas, tomo 2" (Editora La Información, 1929)
3. "Estados Unidos y las Antillas" (Compañía ibero-americana de publicaciones, 1931)
4. "Camino real, cuentos" (Imprenta. "El progreso," R.A. Ramos, 1933)
5. "Episodios dominicanos: la independencia efímera" (Fernand Sarlot, 1938)
6. "Cosas anejas; tradiciones y episodios dominicano" (Ciudad Trujillo, 1951)
7. "El tratado de Basilea y la desnacionalización del Santo Domingo Español" (Ciudad Trujillo, 1952)
8. "La canción folklórica en Santo Domingo" (Sociedad Folklórica Dominicana, 1958)
9. "Trujillo: causas de una tiranía sin ejemplo" (Libreria Las Novedades, 1959)
10. "Santiago: Quien te vio y quien te ve" (Impresora commercial, 1961)
11. "Del Puerto Plata de ayer" (Editora del Caribe, 1963)
12. "Crisis de la democracia de América en la República Dominicana" (Centro de Estudios y Documentación Sociales, A.C., 1964)
13. "La Misericordia y sus contornos, 1894-1916" (Editorial Arte y Cine, 1967)
14. "Hostos Y Su Ideal De Una Confederación Antillana" (Editora del Caribe, 1970)
15. "Memorias para un capítulo de la historia domínico-haitiana una revolución frustrada y un presidente vitalicio" (Santo Domingo, 1976)
16. "Encuentro en Santo Domingo" (Santo Domingo, 1980)

Additionally, Dr. Baud has donated the English-language version of his book Peasants and tobacco in the Dominican Republic, 1870-1930 (University of Tennessee Press, 1995) and Confianza: Governance and Trust in Latin America and the Netherlands (University of Amsterdam, CEDLA, 2018).

Dr. Baud's authored books donated to the library.

This generous donation enriches CUNY DSI's collection of primary and secondary sources on the history and society of the Dominican Republic, bridging a notable gap in our collection. On behalf of the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library, we eagerly anticipate the immense value this contribution will offer students, scholars, and the public interested in Dominican Studies for many years to come.

By Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

 

[1] Oostindie, Gert. “IN MEMORY OF HARMANNUS HOETINK 1931-2005.” NWIG: New West Indian Guide / Nieuwe West-Indische Gids, vol. 79, no. 1/2, 2005, pp. 5.

[2] Baud, Michiel. "Harry Hoetink, 1931-2005." Revista Europea de Estudios Latinoamericanos y del Caribe, no. 78, 2005, pp. 6.

[3]Maingot, Anthony P. "Harry Hoetink, 1931-2005." The Journal of Caribbean History, vol. 39, no. 2, 2005, pp. 137-138.

Donación y visita del Sr. Borja Medina

Gracias al Sr. Borja Medina por su visita y amable donación de su publicación:

Camino a la democracia: Una visión integral para la formación política. Santo Domingo: Editora El Nuevo Diario, 2023.

Visiting Research Fellow from Bowling Green State University

CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Research Fellow Pablo Gómez-Estévez busy at work!

Pablo Gómez-Estévez is a Graduate Student in Composition and Graduate Assistant of Composition Department from the College of Musical Arts in the Bowling Green State University. He is currently working with The Rafael Petitón Guzmán Collection.