Sierra Madre Public Library’s popular “armchair travelers” series will kick off on Friday, February 11, at 7:30 p.m., in Sierra Madre City Hall Chambers with, “Exploring West Africa: Mali, Burkina Faso and Benin,” presented by Gary and Kathy Symons. The Symons explored exotic sites from Cotanou to Timbuktu, capturing on film the teeming markets, colorful tribal dances, and fascinating social customs and religious traditions of these three former slave nations.
Intrepid and seasoned travelers, the Symons never present a superficial, “tour-guide” view of the sites they visit. Their broad-minded respect of diverse cultures enables them to present a deeper behind-the-scenes glimpse into the day-to-day lives and customs of indigenous peoples.
Travelers & Collectors is held the second Friday of the month, February through May, at 7:30 p.m., in the Sierra Madre City Hall Council Chambers, 232 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. All programs are free and open to the public. A schedule is available at the Library Service Desk, and can also be found on the Library website, www.sierramadre.lib.ca.us. Travelers & Collectors is sponsored by the Friends of the Sierra Madre Library. For more information please call Catriona Shafer at (626) 355-7186.