Marking its establishment in Washington, DC, on this day honoring the Library’s founding in 1800
By Merita B. McCormack
When we moved from New York to Washington, DC, I visited the Library of Congress with the purpose of checking for books that were written in Albanian but were prohibited in Albania.
We had no access to Fishta’s works, for example, or to translated literature of the Western world—primarily American or religious works—during communism. So I wanted to see what was available.
So, this curious mind went on a search, became a member, and this is how I met a wonderful gentleman—well-read and a great professional.
His name is Grant Harris. He has held various positions at the Library of Congress, including Head Curator of the Albanian Collection, Head of the European Reading Room, and eventually Director of the Library’s European Division until retirement.
We established a great working relationship and in 2008, at my written request on behalf of the Albanian community and VATRA in particular, the Library of Congress separated Albanian-language literature from the Slavic languages category and placed it directly under the European Division, as a direct connection under that European umbrella. That was a significant achievement! I am very proud to have initiated it, requested it, and seen it through!
The first event that we organized under the Albanian Table was with author and diplomat Mr. Pëllumb Kulla.
The rest of the years have been very productive, and Mr. Harris has been a great supporter and path-lighter!
Among the many events we have held are those for VATRA’s 100th Anniversary in 2012, Kosovo’s independence events, an event with an Albanian Bishop, Msgr. Lush Gjergji of Kosovo, as well as visits and events with Visar Zhiti, Flora Nikolla, Dr. Eris Rusi, Mr. Beqir Potka, Lindita Komani, various Albanian politicians, and many others. Mr. Harris has also spoken at our events outside of the Library of Congress and has promoted the long life of Gazeta Dielli as the longest-published ethnic newspaper.
Another gentleman who has been a great hard worker is Jason Yasner, who does his best to find Albanian pearls and preserve them. His office is beautifully decorated with Albanian memorabilia.
To both of these gentlemen we owe gratitude and thanks!
The three attached photos include one of myself and Mr. Harris some 20 years ago in his office, another is the flyer for VATRA’s 100th anniversary, and the last is from the founding event.
