PHOTOS: Hillside Elementary Completes New Classrooms and Library

Aside from the excitement of going back to school this year, students at have a new library and classrooms to look forward to.

Funded by Measure E and O, the $1.88 million school improvement project took nearly two and a half years to complete. Demolition and building the structures began once summer vacation started.

The library, which boasts sleek, modern features, was worth the wait according to Principal Pam VandeKamp.

"We ended up with a really beautiful product," VandeKamp said. "It's designed around the students and is very accessible and kid-friendly."

She said you can spot students from anywhere in the library because of its round design.

In addition to being used as a library for students, the building will be multipurpose, used for staff meetings and other events.

The old library will be transformed into a staff and parent resource center, where parents will be encouraged to wait for their kids after school while sipping coffee.

To see the before and after photos at Hillside Elementary School, click through the gallery above.