2004 programs and events

American Corners Coordinators Convene in Minsk

Coordinators of American Corners, as well as the Directors of the Belarusian libraries in which the corners are located, met at the U.S. Embassy's Public Affairs Section in Minsk April 29-30 for a workshop on managing American Corners resources. Coordinated by the staff of the Information Resource Center, the second annual workshop featured hands -on training and sessions devoted to several topics including the use of e-mail technology for public information services, ways to promote American Corners, developing American Corners programs, policies and procedures related to the use of media resources, and networking and cooperation among American Corners.

In remarks to the opening session of the workshop, U.S. Ambassador George Krol stressed that the development of American Corners "is a high priority for me and for other members of the U.S. Embassy." The Ambassador said that in Minsk and other Belarusian cities he had been impressed by the management of American Corners. "I am also very pleased to see how popular American Corners are in this country," Ambassador Krol said. "Yes, I am indeed very proud of this unique partnership and innovative collaboration between our two nations."

The evening of April 29, Deputy Chief of Mission Karen Stewart hosted a dinner in honor of the 11 guests from American Corners and affiliated libraries in six Belarusian cities: Minsk, Brest, Polotsk, Gomel, Molodechno, and Mogilev.