Western Washington University

02/26/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 02/26/2026 18:04

Western Libraries Features WWU Student Research, Presentations, and Art Pieces for Whatcom READS

Western Libraries Features WWU Student Research, Presentations, and Art Pieces for Whatcom READS

February 26, 2026

When Western Libraries employee Dayna Patterson, assistant head of the Hacherl Research & Writing Studio, reached out about organizing a Whatcom READS-themed book discussion for winter quarter, she found a willing partner in English faculty Dr. Anthony Celaya.

Celaya included this year's Whatcom READS book, Solito, by Javier Zamora, in the syllabus for his winter section of English 347, 'Studies in Young Adult Literature.' Students from the course read Solitoas part of their unit on nonfiction young adult literature and analyzed the memoir as a genre for community cultural wealth and counter stories. 

In collaboration with his students, and with support from Patterson and the Libraries, Celaya developed the idea of a multimedia showcase of Solito-themed student work. Going far beyond a simple book discussion, the resulting project represented something new for everyone involved-and resulted in a successful instance of innovative, student-centered collaboration.

On February 18, 2026, over 30 of Celaya's students presented their work in the library's Reading Room, below a backdrop of stained-glass windows and falling snow. The event, which was open to the public, included several themed presentations and a collection of student posters. Topics ranged from immigration policy to literary symbolism, from an exploration of how language is used, to understanding the significance of food as a means of connection, culture, and sustenance.

"Listening to poetry and talking to other students about their work on the posters was truly amazing, and bred a sense of community, celebration and support," said Rachel Reinsma, a student participant.

In addition to posters, some students created zines, poetry, sculpture, and other art pieces based on both their research and their personal observations, and using a variety of mediums, including paint, papier mache, and photo collage. They paired their pieces with quotes from Solitoexpressing aspects of their exploration and reading experiences.

Student Brynn Vogel created a collage that they said was guided by nature to artistically represent Zamora's journey.

"Solitotells a beautiful and honest story about the reality of immigration," explained Vogel. "I wanted my artwork to represent the naturalness of migration and how nature plays a role in Javier Zamora's migration to La USA."

Some of the art pieces are now available for viewing in the library through the end of winter quarter in two display cases: one located at the north end of the Mann Family Skybridge, and the other adjacent to the circulation desk in Haggard 2. The featured works may vary over the coming weeks and will later include projects by students from Ethnic Studies 314.

Whatcom READSis a countywide program that encourages everyone to read and discuss the same book. This year's book, Solitoby Javier Zamora, is the author's heart-wrenching memoir about crossing the US-Mexico border as an unaccompanied child at the age of nine. Zamora will be visiting Whatcom County in March as part of the 2026 Whatcom READS programming.

Western Washington University published this content on February 26, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on February 27, 2026 at 00:05 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]