The World in Words presents: From Ainu to Zaza

Live podcast taping at The New York Public Library!

There are approximately 7,000 languages spoken in the world today. By the end of the century some linguists predict half of these languages may fall silent. But what sounds like an alarmist statistic isn’t all doom and gloom.  Endangered languages didn't have many champions until quite recently. Now, activists and scholars from across the globe work to protect and save minority languages. In this live podcast taping, the World in Words’ hosts Patrick Cox and Nina Porzucki will explore what’s happening to endangered languages from Ainu to Zaza. Why do languages become endangered, and how have some speakers worked to ensure a future for their native tongues?

With over 430 languages represented in our research collections, including many pieces in endangered tongues, The New York Public Library is thrilled to host this important conversation.

Speakers include:

• Denise Hibay, Susan and Douglas Dillon Head of Collection Development, NYPL


• Daniel Kaufman, Director of the Endangered Language Alliance of NYC


• Alina Simone, Reporter for Public Radio International


• James Lovell, musician, educator, and speaker of Garifuna

The World in Words is a podcast about languages and the people who speak them. What happens to the brain on bilingualism? Should we fear the rise of global English? Is the United States losing its linguistic cohesion? Why are Chinese words about technology so inventive? Why does Icelandic have so many cool swearwords? Patrick Cox and Nina Porzucki bring you stories from the world’s linguistic frontlines. (In short, we’re nerdy and wordy.)  The World in Words began as an offshoot of the international news radio program, PRI’s The World.  You can listen and subscribe to The World in Words on AudioBoom, iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Media Sponsor:

AudioBoom is the leading spoken-word audio platform for hosting, distributing and monetizing content. The platform receives over 35 million listens per month and allows audio producers to share their content via iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Facebook, Twitter, as well as their own websites and mobile apps. 

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