By Elizabeth Roman

A bit of Springfield history is now a part of the official collection of books at the State Library of Massachusetts in the Statehouse. "On Being Italian: A Story of Food, Family and Faith," the latest book released as part of The Republican's Heritage Series, was donated to the library by state Rep. Angelo J. Puppolo Jr., D-Springfield. "This is an heirloom book that contains a treasure trove of information, history and photographs of the Italian heritage in Western Massachusetts," Puppolo said.

The book was written and edited by Wayne E. Phaneuf, Romola "Mimi" Rigali and Joseph Carvalho and includes photographs by celebrated photographer James Langone. It traces the history of Italian immigration in Western Massachusetts and includes stories of heroic families who settled here, well-known athletes, successful business entrepreneurs, politicians and educators in the region, among many others.

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Source: http://www.masslive.com/news/