CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library

Dr. Sharina Maillo-Pozo Donates Bridging Sonic Borders to the CUNY DSI Library

 

Dr. Sharina Maillo-Pozo with her book Bridging Sonic Borders at the library on April 30, 2025.

The CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library was excited to welcome back Dr. Sharina Maillo-Pozo, a former CUNY DSI Research Fellowship recipient, who recently visited and donated a copy of her first single-authored book, Bridging Sonic Borders: Popular Music in Contemporary Dominican/Dominican-York Literature.

This groundbreaking work explores the intersections of music, literature, and identity in Dominican and Dominican-American narratives, offering a vital contribution to Caribbean and Latinx cultural studies.

We thank Dr. Maillo-Pozo for her kind donation and for advancing critical scholarship that enriches our understanding of Dominican diasporic expression.

Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

Playwright Carmen Rivera Donates New Editions of The Downfall of Rafael Trujillo

 

Carmen Rivera with copies of The Downfall of Rafael Trujillo and its Spanish translation La caída de Rafael Trujillo at the library on May 5, 2025.

The CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library is honored to acknowledge a generous book donation from award winning playwright Carmen Rivera, who recently gifted published copies of her acclaimed play The Downfall of Rafael Trujillo and its newly released Spanish translation, La caída de Rafael Trujillo. Both editions were published by Theatrical Rights Worldwide in 2025 to mark the play’s return to the stage this spring.

Rivera originally donated a copy of the play to our library in 2014, the same year it debuted at Teatro Círculo. This year, the production returned to the stage from April 25 to May 11, 2025, following its previous run in 2023, and continues to engage audiences with its powerful portrayal of Dominican history.

This work is highly recommended for readers and researchers interested in contemporary drama, Dominican drama, and the works of Carmen Rivera. It provides a compelling lens into the cultural and political legacy of the Trujillo dictatorship through the voice of one of today’s most important Latinx playwrights.

We thank Carmen Rivera for her continued commitment to preserving and sharing Dominican stories through theater and literature.

 Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

Welcoming Our First Class Visit of the Spring Semester!

 

Dr. Joshua Deckman and his students from Stetson University following our class visit on March 4, 2025.

Dr. Joshua Deckman reviewing archival photographs with his students.

                                                                                    

Students examining a historical scrapbook from the archives.

This March, we were thrilled to welcome our first class visit of the Spring semester to the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Archives and Library. Dr. Joshua Deckman, Assistant Professor of Spanish and Latinx Studies in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at Stetson University—and a former CUNY DSI Research Fellow (2017)—organized this special visit as part of a study away program in New York City.

Dr. Deckman’s students spent a half day with us exploring the archives and library, engaging with our collections, and learning about the unique research resources that make CUNY DSI a vital space for Dominican studies. It was a lively and inspiring exchange—we learned just as much from them as they did from us! The students also shared details about an exciting oral history project they are conducting with Dominican immigrants in Central Florida. Their enthusiasm for community-centered research resonated deeply with our mission and sparked meaningful conversations about memory, migration, and representation.

We’re grateful to Dr. Deckman and his students for spending their afternoon with us, and we look forward to seeing how their project continues to grow!

Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

Acknowledging a Generous Donation: Classics of Dominican Migration

The fourteen publications donated by Librarian Adrian Johnson to the library, November 18, 2024

The CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Library proudly announces the recent donation of fourteen books from Librarian Adrian Johnson, Head of User Services at the Benson Latin American Collection at the University of Texas Libraries. This generous contribution includes publications by the Instituto Nacional de Migración de la República Dominicana, notably the Clásicos de la Migración Dominicana (Classics of Dominican Migration) series. This collection provides an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of migration to and from the Dominican Republic through rigorous analysis and scholarship.

The donated titles encompass various migration studies, touching on gender, child trafficking, Haitian and Chinese migration, and historical immigration policies under Trujillo. These works will significantly enrich our collection and support our mission of fostering research and knowledge dissemination about Dominican heritage and migration.

The donation includes the following titles and authors:
1. Trata de mujeres dominicanas en Costa Rica, Suiza y España en el marco de los estudios de género, migración y desarrollo – Tahira Vargas, Katia Núñez, and Rosa Beltrán
2. Niños, niñas y adolescentes extranjeros en situación o riesgo de trata en República Dominicana desde la perspectiva de actores clave – Mildred Martínez
3. Entre dos islas: La migración internacional dominicana – Sherri Grasmuck and Patricia R. Pessar
4. De Baní a Boston: Construyendo comunidad a través de fronteras – Peggy Levitt
5. Graveyismo y racismo en el Caribe – Humberto García Muñiz and Jorge L. Giovannetti-Torres
6. Braceros haitianos en la República Dominicana – Franc Báez Evertsz
7. La migración china en República Dominicana 1961-2018 – Mu-Kien Adriana Sang Ben
8. La otra inmigración: Estudio sobre las corrientes de inmigración de procedencia extrainsular y la integración social y económica de los inmigrantes de las principales comunidades etnonacionales – Francisco I. Cáceres Ureña, Frank Báez Evertsz, and César Andrés Caamaño
9. Estudio cualitativo sobre la trata de mujeres extranjeras en República Dominicana – Tahira Vargas
10. La política de inmigración del dictador Trujillo – C. Harvey Gardiner
11. Las políticas migratorias en la República Dominicana (1912-2018) – Farah Paredes, Aris Balbuena, and Rossana Gómez
12. La vida antes, durante y después de la trata – Ninna Nyberg Sørensen
13. Estudios migratorios, número 1, enero-junio 2021 (magazine)
14. Estudios migratorios, número 2, julio-diciembre 2021 (magazine)

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Librarian AJ for his thoughtful contribution, which will serve as a cornerstone for current and future research on Dominican migration. These resources are now available in the Library and will undoubtedly inspire critical scholarship in migration studies.

Visit us to explore this exceptional collection!

 Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian

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