What Korean Immigrant Parents Ask For: Transformative Library Upholding Native Language and Supporting Parental Involvement

• In Event: Crown Plaza Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Asian and Pacific Islander K–12 Education

Abstract

Ways Korean immigrant parents used local libraries to adjust to the host country, enhance their cultural capital, and become involved in their children’s education were explored. The 43% of 141 respondents reported dissatisfaction with library services. They demanded the libraries to organize classes relevant to their needs; offer reading programs for their children; and provide more books in Korean and diverse cultural events for all. They asked their children’s school libraries to be more accessible and support the children’s academic achievement. Transformative library is necessary to support immigrant parents’ intention to continue their learning and participate in their children’s learning.

Authors

• Yanghee Anna Kim, Kennesaw State University

• Hyun Chu Leah Kim, Kennesaw State University

• Sohyun An

• Jihye Kim, Kennesaw State University