Open House at Gabriola’s school library
Janina Stajic
janina@soundernews.com
Monday, June 22 2009
It started three years ago when a few Gabriola parents decided the drab school library was in desperate need of a face lift. And it’s ended in a library that could arguably by the envy of all the schools in District 68. Don’t believe me? Come see for yourself at the school library open house: Wednesday, June 24th, 12:30pm-2:00pm.
Paula Maddison, who has been heading up the library committee and instrumental in the library’s transformation, has this to say:
“It is just so fantastic to see this come to fruition and, to everyone involved -- hats off!”
With money raised from the always generous community through exceptional fundraisers such as “A Literary Evening hosted by Shelagh Rogers”, and endless support from principal Ruane Dumler and librarian Val Martineau, the library committee has implemented new benches, cozy reading nooks, beautifully crafted shelving units; purchased primary tables and the ever-popular bean bag chairs (which teachers love too); and, in a spectacular finishing touch, enlisted the talents of three Gabriola artists: Melinda Wilde, Kathy Dennison and Tammy Hudgeon. Melinda and Kathy have been busy putting the final touches on wall-sized seascape and storybook murals and Tammy’s colourful glass creations add a touch of magic to the light filtering in through the windows. The result is a bright, light-filled, welcoming room that makes you want to curl up with a great story and while the hours away.
As Val says, “The transformation has been magnificent. I’ve witnessed the ebbs and flows of creating a truly exceptional library that has become the hub of our school. Usage is up with students enjoying leisure reading through the lunch hour, before and after school. Circulation is up over previous years as we have been able to purchase both more resources in consultation with the staff and students.”
But again, don’t believe me (or Paula or Val). Come and see for yourself at the school library open house this Wednesday from 12:30pm–2pm.
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