(Courtesy photo/San Benito Public Library)
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
The San Benito Public Library is celebrating local poet Dora E. Gonzalez with a summer display that showcases her published works, creative beginnings, and connection to the community.
The feature is part of the library’s Summer Reading Program and its continued effort to uplift hometown voices.
“The decision to feature Dora E. Gonzalez in this summer’s display was inspired by our effort to highlight and support local authors,” said Library Director Augustin Carrera. “Showcasing her work not only enriches our literary offerings but also celebrates the creative voices within our community.”
Gonzalez’s love of writing began early. “I was first drawn to writing in elementary school, where I had very encouraging teachers,” she shared. “My stories were read to the first graders when I was in 5th grade.” Her first poem about love was published in the school newspaper during her senior year. From there, she continued writing about friendship, people, and tragic events near and far.
“Living in San Benito, I was always motivated to continue writing by my family and friends,” she stated. “Even my coworkers, such as teachers and principals, encouraged me with kind words.”
The library’s connection with Gonzalez started after she saw a Facebook post promoting a local author event. She reached out with interest. “At the time, author registration had already closed, but we were truly impressed by her initiative and literary accomplishments,” Carrera explained. “We saw this as the perfect opportunity to feature her through a dedicated summer display.”
The exhibit, located inside a glass case in the library, features all 11 of Gonzalez’s published poetry books along with a short biography. Each book is positioned to showcase its cover, creating an inviting space for patrons to engage with her work. Carrera credited Library Administration Assistant Jonathan Mills for his careful and thoughtful presentation of the materials.
Gonzalez regularly shares her poetry with students during substitute teaching assignments. “Sometimes, when they were studying poetry, I would surprise them by reading some of mine,” she recalled. “They would ask me to reread it, and to bring more when I returned.” She said students often responded by sharing their writing. “They would share their writing experiences, such as writing a poem to their Mom on her birthday. I would tell them that it was great and encourage them to keep writing. If they remembered me, students would ask me if I had written more poetry.”
Her hope, she shared, is to inspire the next generation. “I want to inspire students with my poetry and encourage those who enjoy writing to continue doing so,” Gonzalez said. “I hope San Benito’s citizens and their children feel a sense of pride in knowing a member of their community writes poetry, shares it with students, and inspires all who read it.”
One of her most personal works is a poem titled “God’s Calling.” “It was published on the back of my younger sister’s memorial card,” she said. “She passed away in 2020 due to skin cancer.”
Looking ahead, Gonzalez plans to publish a complete anthology. “My publishers have offered to publish it,” she shared. “Another dream of mine is to write a children’s book. I have not started on this project, but will hopefully do it very soon.”
The public response to the display has been encouraging. “Many have expressed appreciation for featuring a local poet,” Carrera noted. “Several have taken time to read her work on display, with some even asking about how to find more of her poetry.”
The display remains available through August during regular library hours. Visitors are invited not only to explore Gonzalez’s writing but also to be reminded that creativity can begin anywhere. Her journey affirms that in a small hometown, quiet dreams can grow into lasting stories, and even one voice can make a powerful mark on a community.
In addition to the author spotlight, the library offers a range of ongoing programs for the public. Adult computer classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Toddler Storytime is held on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. ESL classes and arts and crafts are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Free coffee is served Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Astronomy Adventure meets the second Tuesday of each month from 5 to 6 p.m.
For more information, contact the San Benito Public Library at (956) 361-3860.
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