Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed in the United States during the month of May in recognition of the contributions and influence of these groups to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. 

President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first Asian and Pacific American Heritage week in 1979, and the observance was extended to the entire month of May in 1990. In 2009, President Barack Obama expanded the observance to include Pacific Islanders.

To learn more about the rich heritage of these cultures, and the challenges they've faced in the United States throughout history, see the library's Asian Pacific American Heritage Month guide.