Finding Community in Oaxaca: Tanya Lapierre on the Oaxaca Lending Library

Moving to a new city involves more than finding a home. It also means finding people to ask questions, share interests and spend time with. In 2026, the Oaxaca Lending Library celebrates its 60th anniversary, having opened in 1966. Tanya Lapierre, coordinator of its Excursions programs, explains how a first visit can lead to conversations, volunteering and lasting friendships.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

1. Could you introduce yourself and your connection to the library?

My name is Tanya Lapierre, and I coordinate the Oaxaca Lending Library’s Excursions programs: Out & About, our educational tours, and Hoofing It in Oaxaca, our hiking program.

I have worn many hats during my 12 years with the library. I was secretary for six months, worked on the Technology Committee, redid the website and helped move Terrace Talks, hikes and tours onto an online booking platform. I have volunteered at the circulation desk, dusted the Mystery Books section and presented a Terrace Talk about my volunteer work.

2. What makes the library a good place for newcomers to begin finding community?

I moved to Oaxaca 12 years ago, but I already knew about the library from earlier visits. For someone visiting or newly arrived, it is a treasure trove of people who are happy to tell you where to find something, a good croissant or barbacoa de chivo.

I know it is a library and I should probably say “the books,” but its real heart is the people who go there. The volunteers love our adopted home.

The variety of programs also helps. At the Monday Welcome to Oaxaca sessions, newcomers can ask questions of people who have already settled here. There is nothing like bonding over moving questions or the joys of setting up a local cellphone.

If you love hiking, you can meet people on the trail. A Terrace Talk puts you in a green chair beside someone who is interested in the same subject. Our Out & About tours explore villages, artisans, artists, architecture and alebrijes.

On Saturdays, there are children’s programs and a language exchange, or intercambio, bringing together local people and foreigners. I know a couple who met at an intercambio and are now married. Others have been friends with their language partners for years.

3. Which activity would you suggest for a first visit?

Welcome to Oaxaca on Mondays is an obvious choice, but I think my own first activity was a Terrace Talk. Any of our programs can be a welcoming starting point. Choose something that interests you.

Editor’s practical note: Check the library’s current calendar and the individual activity details before going. Tours and hikes have their own booking arrangements. For hikes, check the route and difficulty before deciding whether an outing suits you.

Current programs and booking information: https://www.oaxlibrary.org/
Daytime activities: https://www.oaxlibrary.org/daytime-activities
Hiking program: https://www.oaxlibrary.org/hikes

4. What advice would you give newcomers who want to participate respectfully and build friendships beyond the visitor community?

Years ago, when I moved from Montréal to Toronto, I was having trouble adjusting. My father told me I needed to open my heart and be my friendly, curious self. He was right, and I give newcomers here the same advice.

Open your heart. Relax your expectations. Smile. Be polite and try to speak Spanish. Don’t force things. Be patient and kind.

And when you are asked to be a “madrina” at a wedding, ask, “The madrina of what?” Take an interest and ask questions rather than assuming you know what a role involves.

Volunteering in local organizations is another way to get involved.

Editor’s practical note: Ask the organization what help is needed and what language skills a particular role requires. Match what you can offer to its needs.

5. How can newcomers support the library in useful ways?

Become a member, and ask at the circulation desk what is needed and which areas match your interests. Donations are welcome, too.

Current volunteering information: https://www.oaxlibrary.org/volunteer

About Tanya Lapierre

Tanya Lapierre coordinates the Oaxaca Lending Library’s Excursions programs, including Out & About and Hoofing It in Oaxaca. She has been involved with the library for 12 years, with roles spanning technology, circulation, administration and presentations.

Oaxaca Lending Library: https://www.oaxlibrary.org/
Library Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/oaxacalendinglibrary