New Junior High Library: fresh, exciting

A newly remodeled library is becoming a hub for activity.

 It has a modern look, lots of new equipment, carts full of laptop computers, 89 just-purchased books, a huge volume of checked-out books and a librarian who helps the kids get excited about reading.

"The new library is one of my favorite resources on campus," said Bruce Standifer, a teacher at the school. "The students like having the flexibility of a different environment."

Lauren Parnes, school librarian, says the new equipment is having a positive effect.

“I think that I have actually convinced some of the kids that the books are better than the computers because they do not have to plug them in,” she said.

Community contributions have been key, Parnes added.

Donations from companies and organizations such as Syar, Kiwanis, Rotary, Hotel Healdsburg, and individual families such as John and Kim Lloyd, Gina Fontana and the Bursicks provided the 48 laptop computers that are stored on carts that are easily secured and also serve as charging stations. The carts can be checked out by teachers and moved to any classroom. A  plaque on the wall lists the donors (or you can see the attached picture). 

 “The donations and grants that we receive are the backbone of our success and there is room for more," she said. "We can use more tutors, money donations and the science fair is coming up so there is unlimited opportunity to mentor this youth to greatness.”

New features at the library include added windows and a new entrance that allows natural light to fill the room. The furniture is modern and comfortable. It encourages the kids to work in teams and show respect for what they have and one another. 

There is a large scrapbook with the students comments regarding all the changes and it is pretty adorable. 

At lunch, all the computers are in use. Students research for topics such as the science projects or they register for the Kuder Navigator website, a place to research colleges and continuing education opportunities.

In January alone, 491 books were checked out from the new library, Parnes said. 

Eighty-nine new books were purchased from the Junior Library Guild and are "permabound" for greater durability. Just the process of choosing the books is interesting.

The Guild started with over 8,000 submissions and whittled that down to just 350. The topics of the new books include Alcatraz, Charlie Chaplin, Darwin, civil rights, physics, Frida Kahlo and even ten books on poetry that are checked out constantly. 

For more information or to visit, contact Lauren Parnes, HJH Library, 707-888-9115.  During the week, the library is open until 4 p.m. daily.

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