LA PUENTE, CA – Students and families at La Seda Elementary School took their first steps into the school’s new Wonder of Reading Library at the Grand Opening Celebration on Friday, March 21. La Seda Elementary raised nearly $50,000 to match a contribution by The Wonder of Reading, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the love of reading in children, and the primary library sponsor, the Fineshriber Family Foundation.
“This is a dream come true! In our old Library we could not even seat an entire class because there was simply no room,” said La Seda Principal Gay-Lynn Carnello. “We had no computers for student use. Not only is our new Library a lovely place for students to engage in literature and research , but it will be a place for our parents too when we open it up in the evenings beginning next year. We will also begin a volunteer community reading program. This Library will indeed be the hub of our school!”
With more than $10,000 worth of new books, the La Seda Wonder of Reading Library will engage students with cozy reading spaces – it will even include a fireplace! A beautiful mini amphitheater with steps will offer the perfect space for storytelling. Students will also be able to use seven computer research stations.
The theme of the library is “ BOOKS OPEN OUR WORLD.” A beautiful mural of world icons greets visitors as they enter. Outside a beautiful reading garden also provides students with a quiet reading space in a serene outdoor setting.
The Wonder of Reading transforms libraries into vibrant centers of learning by partnering with public elementary schools to implement the 3R Program—Renovate, Restock, and Read. As a result of this unique program, the organization and its partners expand and renovate libraries, making them more useful and inviting for students; restock them with new books; and train volunteers to work with below grade-level readers. For more information about The Wonder of Reading and its programs, please visit their website at www.wonderofreading.org.
La Seda Elementary School is located at 341 La Seda Road in La Puente. If you are interested in becoming a Wonder of Reading Volunteer or would like to make a donation to the ongoing fundraising efforts, please contact Principal Gay-Lynn Carnello at (626) 965-3496.
To view more photos, visit the Photo Album on the front page of the website.