
But even knowing this, we weren’t prepared for the rush of enthusiasm when the library doors eventually opened. As soon we installed the first bookshelves and put up posters, students began to arrive in droves. They asked to help clean, paint, and – as soon as there were books – stock the shelves and leaf through their newest toys.
The incredible amount of student demand was strong enough to draw us from our initial project timeline, and although the library is not officially inaugurated, teachers already have access during class hours and students are free to explore independently during recess.
Over the next few weeks we’ll complete final library installations and deliver more books. It’s a humble beginning, but we’re very optimistic about this new chapter in the Chacaya Elementary School’s ongoing development.