On January 27th, the new St. Genevieve Parish schools’ library opened to the “wows” and “aaaahs” of parents and students alike. Ms. Beth Nimmo, author and mother of Rachel Scott, the first student killed in the 1999 Columbine High School tragedy, did the honors by cutting the ribbon on what can only be described and the most beautiful high school media center/reading/research facility in any school in southern California.

The new library houses both the high school and the elementary school book collections and provides a commodious and very welcoming environment to young learners. The 45 desktop and laptop state-of-the-art computers offer students opportunities to do research, edit video and take on-line high school and college courses. The well-lit, open-air environment and accessibility of the shelves makes finding books quick and simple. Small study areas along the beautiful new atrium windows provide natural light and quiet places where students can work undisturbed.

St. Genevieve Elementary School students are particular beneficiaries of this new facility as they now have a library in which entire classes can be taught and youngsters can undertake age-appropriate reading and research learning projects.

The new St. Genevieve Parish schools’ library is one of several joint high school-elementary school undertakings which promises to enhance the quality of education available to all students enrolled in Parish schools.