Waimanalo school library makeover, food pantry unveiled
 

Blanche Pope Elementary School's library has 2,000 new books, upgraded technology and an eco-friendly new look, courtesy of Target Corporation and The Heart of America Foundation.

Target also incorporated a school-based food pantry program into the five-week renovation process, knowing that hunger makes it difficult for students to learn and focus in the classroom. The "Target Meals for Minds" food pantry will provide a variety of staple foods and fresh produce that Blanche Pope Elementary students and families can choose from each month.

Blanche Pope Elementary was one of the first schools in the country to receive a library renovation this year through the national Target School Library Makeover program. The revitalization effort included a complete technology upgrade and an environmentally-friendly redesign featuring new furniture, carpet and shelves. As part of the library unveiling event, each student and his or her siblings also received seven new books to keep for their home libraries.

"The Target School Library Makeover has resulted in an environment that will encourage a love of reading and learning while inspiring our students to achieve," said Ofelia Reed, Blanche Pope Elementary's principal. "I believe that if our students are going to excel, they have to study hard. To support this, we must provide a safe and nurturing environment that supports our 21st Century learners. We are grateful to Target and everyone who has helped make this library renovation possible for our students and community."

Since 2007, more than 76 schools nationwide have received Target School Library Makeovers in an effort to help students learn to read proficiently by the end of the third grade. "We're helping children across the country learn to love reading by giving them the tools they need, including an inspiring library space, new books, computers and more," said Laysha Ward, president of community relations for Target and Target Foundation.

Schools are selected to receive library makeovers based on several factors, including the number of students reading below grade level, the percentage of students from low-income families and the overall need for library improvement.

Angie Halamandaris, president and co-founder of The Heart of America Foundation, said the partnership with Target provides the opportunity to unveil dozens of libraries each year in special ceremonies. "It is a great experience to welcome these young students into their brand new library space and watch the excitement on their faces. It is programs such as this one that make reading fun and foster a lifelong love of learning."

Read Businesses Offer Support in the February 2011 eNewsletter for more about Target Corp. and The Heart of America efforts to support literacy at Hawaii public schools.

June 2011 eNewsletter