Several members of the TK Alumni Association, TK Board of Education, and families with young students gathered in the Early Childhood Center parking lot Monday night for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located on the southeast corner of the parking lot of the ECC, the Little Free Library is easily accessible to families who want to “take a book, leave a book.”
“The establishment of this Little Free Library represents more than just a place to store books. It symbolizes a commitment to literacy, community and the joy of learning. The concept of ‘take a book, leave a book’ encourages a cycle of sharing and discovery, where every book exchanged enriches a child’s life,” said Brenda Hess, a trustee of the TK Alumni Association as well as a member of the school board.
“The Alumni Association is not only committed to alumni, but also to current students as well as teachers and staff. It is their hope this library will help foster a love of reading amongst our youngest future alumni,” said Hess.
She extended thanks to the school district for supporting and allowing the Little Free Library to be placed at the ECC and to TK Alumni George French, for building and donating the Little Free Library.
Hess said French’s attention to detail ensured the Little Free Library is not only functional but also a beautiful addition to the ECC. “We especially appreciate the fact that you used repurposed materials in its construction.”
Members of the TK Operations Department were also thanked for installing the Little Free Library and making sure it is securely in a place where it can easily be accessed. Hess noted the operations department also used materials already available to them, so there was no additional cost to the TKAA or the district for the installation.
Finally, she thanked the many families who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and for the children who were the first to take books from the library. “Let us celebrate not only the opening of this physical structure but also the endless possibilities it represents for learning, imagination and connection,” said Hess. “Together, let’s continue to build a community where the love of reading knows no bounds.”
With those final words, TK Alumni Association President Karen Page Kennedy cut the ribbon and opened the doors to the Little Free Library.