The Art of Storytelling 2006 began in March, when the Miami-Dade Public Library System sent a delegation of librarians to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to explore the culture and to share stories with children and adults alike. In May, a similar delegation from Rio visited Miami-Dade and spent four days experiencing our diverse cultural make up and learning about the history of South Florida. The group visited several library branches, where they discussed ideas and shared storytelling techniques. The Brazilian representatives also attended a two-day workshop conducted by award-winning author, illustrator and storyteller Ashley Bryan and Brazilian storyteller Antonio Rocha.

Miami-Dade librarians visit with students in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil	Librarians and storytellers from Rio de Janeiro with Miami-Dade Commissioner Audrey Edmonson (left) and Library Director Raymond Santiago (right) after receiving keys to the county.
Library Director Raymond Santiago presents gifts to the Brazilian visitors
The Miami-Dade Public Library System wishes to thank the following underwriters for making the Art of Storytelling 2006 possible The Children’s Trust Consulate General of Brazil in Miami Bank of America Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library Miami-Dade Public Library Foundation With additional support from: Miami Art Museum Miami Children’s Museum Miami-Dade Office of the Child Advocate Miami-Dade Transit Miami-Dade Family Learning Partnership Mountain Spring Valley Water Historical Museum of Southern Florida TAM Airlines The Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald Vamos Falar Portuguese Foundation