Students, teachers, administrators, reporters and a councilmember gathered Friday morning for the unveiling of Starr King elementary school’s brand new library. Thanks to Target and the Heart of America Foundation, this 92 year old school received a much needed face-lift to its existing library through the volunteerism and fundraising of hundreds of supporters.
Located on Artesia Blvd. in north Long Beach, Starr King elementary is one of 23 schools nationwide that will receive such renovations through the partnership between Target and the Heart of America Foundation. According to Angie Halamandaris, executive director of Heart of America, this is like “extreme makeover library edition.” Working with Target designers, the library was upgraded with a new layout, much paint, furniture, art, technology and of course a wealth of new books. Each student was also given seven books to take home and keep.
“Education is becoming increasingly important, and literacy results in understanding,” said principal Rosana Madrid-Arroyo, who has held the leadership position at Starr King elementary for two years. Principal Madrid-Arroyo pointed out that, in addition to renovating the library, the Target teams contributed 2,000 new books and $8,000 for technology expenses. Fifth grade teacher Mrs. Brown found the contribution to be “overwhelming, and something [they] really needed and finally got.”
When I walked into the new library, over 100 bodies were patiently waiting for the speeches and ribbon cutting. The library is located on the south-west corner of the school’s property, with large, open windows allowing much natural light. The Target team repainted an entire wall with educational and inspirational quotes to encourage reading, installed new computers and created a comfortable space for students to learn through reading.
Ninth district City Councilmember Val Lerch attended the ceremony and thanked Target both for their contributions to Starr King elementary and to the greater community. Just two weeks ago Target expanded to a new store just blocks from Starr King elementary, at 68th Street and Cherry Avenue. Councilmember Lerch noted that the recruitment process took five years, well worth the time as it has now created 500 new jobs in the community.
