By Nazario Rodriguez Jr.
Horizon News Staff

The Embassy of Japan has turned-over on Wednesday a big volume of assorted books to the Palau Community College for the Library Support Program for 2006,
The books, estimated to be about over a hundred pieces of different topics in Japanese culture, people, politics, economics and the like, were donated by the Japan Foundation, a non-profit and special legal entity associated with the Government of Japan.
In a simple hand-over ceremony at the Japan Embassy in Meyuns, Charge d’ Affaires Naotake Yamashita presented the books to PCC President Patrick U. Tellei.
Also present were Tellei’s Assistant Todd Ngiramengior and PCC Librarian Deborah Neas.
The books re valued at 924,030 yen or approximately $8,000.
The Library Support Program is designed to support overseas research and educational organizations in promoting the understanding of and research on Japan through donations of books and other materials related to Japan.
Yamashita said that the people of Palau have more knowledge about the United States but not of Japan adding that this kind of donation is healthy and it makes the relations between Palau and Japan stronger.
On is part, Tellei expressed appreciation for this valuable materials, which would definitely go a long way for understanding the Japanese culture and foster further friendship.
Tellei also informed that Library cars will be opened to all residents of Palau.
Under the Library Support Program, three sub-categories refer to the stages of development of Japanese studies of the applying organizations.
PCC, being in the early stages, was awarded Category A1 which is for overseas organizations that have no books related to Japan and wish to obtain introductory books that cover a broad spectrum of topics relating to Japan.
The books are written in the English language and are chosen from the Book List drawn up by the Japan Foundation, which does not only donate the books and materials but it is also responsible for all expenses incurred for sending, packing fee, Japanese custom tax and shipping.
The books range in topics on arts, culture and traditions, economy, education, government, history, law, literature, politics, religion, current events, just to name a few.
Japan Embassy said that it is its hope that the books will not only benefit the students of PCC in their research work and education but also the community as a whole to further elevate their understanding of Japan’s many facets.
Japan Foundation was established in 1972 to promote international relationship and mutual understanding through cultural exchange activities between Japan and other countries.
A wide range of programs are conducted in more than 180 countries, such as support for exchange of skilled personnel, Japanese studies, art-related exchanges, media exchanges and others.
The Japan Embassy said that donations of this kind serve as another symbol of the maturing mutual friendship between Japan and the Republic of Palau and also enhance and enrich the teaching as well as the learning of the Japanese culture, history and language.