Monfredo: Worcester East Middle Library Transformed into Something Special

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Saturday, July 19, 2014

John Monfredo, GoLocalWorcester MINDSETTER™

This week at a ribbon cutting ceremony, thanks to the work of volunteers from AbbVie Global Biopharmaceutical Company and the Heart of America Foundation, the Worcester East Middle library was transformed into a modern day library.   Through a grant initiated by Worcester East Middle Library media specialist Sara Kopka, the Heart of America Foundation selected her school library for a Redesign Makeover.  Ms. Kopka, in her application, had to generate reports from the library’s cataloging software to show statistics of circulation, average publications, year of collection, as well as recording programs that were used at the school such as WEMS Reads Project.

Ms. Kopka stated, “Receiving this grant in my eyes is the absolute best gift I could ask for, for my library.  Our school building is 90 years old and the oldest junior high building east of the Mississippi River.  I can only imagine the joys and motivation that this new library will create for the students and their families.”

The library received over 1900 new library books, over 250 books for their STEM focused collection and 150 parent resource books.  Each student at the school will receive five books each, including two STEM-focused titles and three general interest books so that they can create their own personal home libraries.

In addition, technology equipment was donated: 25 Google Chrome notebooks, one mobile security care for up to 40 devices, a circulation desk computer, a scanner for integrated system circulation, IPads, and a circulation center printer.  The groups also provided the following furniture: shelving, tables, chairs, flooring, carpeting and a circulation desk.  They even developed a teacher lounge with updated, furnished and revitalized space for the staff.

AbbVie is a global research based biopharmaceutical company formed just last year following a separation from Abbott Laboratories.  They employ over 25,000 people worldwide and market medicines in more than 170 countries.  This company makes one of its homes in Worcester.

The Heart of America Foundation, a national nonprofit organization with headquarters in Washington, D.C., has continued for many years to inspire acts of service and a love of learning by providing children with the tools to read, succeed, and make a difference in the community.  One of the representatives of the organization spoke about creating a vibrant center of learning and to assist with vital resources for the community.

The project took several weeks to complete with over 150 AbbVie volunteers participating.  In a press release, Tracie Haas, vice president, stated, “We are pleased to join our partners and employee volunteers for the first ‘Week of Possibilities’ to benefit the teachers and students…together we’re proud to support schools with science and literacy resources to help inspire the next generation of scientists and business leaders.”  The many volunteers are to be commended for an outstanding job in such a short period of time.

As part of their philosophy, both groups have to work toward narrowing the achievement gap in science and literacy, and creating a love of learning for every child.

As a strong supporter of school libraries, I couldn’t be more pleased to see the great work that has taken place at this school’s library, for it was an “eye opener” to attend this most positive event.   As the saying goes, “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader,” and it’s important to note that school libraries have a powerful influence on stimulating interest in reading and strengthening research and critical thinking skills.  I sincerely hope that this partnership with AbbVie and with the Heart of America Foundation is not just a one shot deal, but will continue in the Worcester Community. 

The ceremony was attended by students, parents, business leaders in the STEM field, and state and local political leaders. Once again, thank you AbbVie and the Heart of America Foundation for making a difference in Worcester.

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