Roseburg - Central Library

The new art exhibit currently on display at the Douglas County Central Library in Roseburg is entitled “Gifts from Shobu”.   

The City of Roseburg has a Sister City exchange program with Shobu, Japan. Shobu is approximately a two-hour drive from Toyko. The population is about the size of Roseburg, and the economic base is agricultural (rice, pears, strawberries, flowers, etc.) The adult exchange program began in 1993 when a group of local artists went to Shobu, led by the founder of the exchange program, Mr. Harold Winfield.

The forerunner to the adult program began in 1986 with an exchange of students from Joseph Lane Middle School and a middle school in Shobu. Since the beginning, both programs have involved official visits between the two towns by citizens from all walks of life. These visits while not lengthy, yield lasting memories and friendships, and are the highlight of the program.

The exchange of gifts is an important part of the Japanese culture and during the years the City of Roseburg has received many beautiful items from visiting Delegations--especially from the talented artists of our Sister City: Shobu.

While visiting the library, tour the Roseburg Sister Cities Friendship Garden located on the south side of the building. Maps are available at the Reference Desk.

The artwork can be viewed throughout the library during open hours until January 10, 2011.