What is READesign® Library Makeover ? read more...

The READesign® Library Makeover revitalizes elementary school libraries into warm, friendly places that engage children in learning, creating a love of reading. Each themed READesign® Library Makeover includes vibrant paint, murals or original paintings by a nationally recognized artist, new furniture, and 1,000-2,000 new, high-quality library books.

The READesign® Library Makeover program engages volunteers, especially local youth, as well as corporate team members and other members of the community, in service and community involvement through library beautification and improvement activities, book distributions and one-on-one reading activities with children. The project provides tangible results in the form of a revitalized library, as well as the intangible results of engaging people in caring, compassionate community service to children in need.

What are READesign® Library Makeovers Like? read more...

Fresh and Vibrant: Each READesign® Library Makeover includes professional design services, as well as new paint and original artwork by a nationally-recognized artist. Some libraries also receive new carpeting, lighting and cosmetic construction.

Engaging: Each library also receives age-appropriate furnishings, such as tables and chairs, computer workstations, and reading corners. Children can comfortably engage in individual study at computer workstations or activity tables or interact with one another and adults in a cozy reading corner.

Resource Rich: Each school receives 1,000 to 2,000 new books for the school library, and many also receive new technology, such as new computers or Activboards. Additionally, all students receive two new books to take home to add to their home libraries.

Fun! In addition to a new library, all children in the school are invited to participate in a community reading celebration to kick-off the new library. Students and their families enjoy food, music, and arts and crafts, and all children who attend the celebration receive up to five more new books to add to their home libraries.

How are partner schools selected? read more...

READesign® Library Makeover and Target School Library Makeover recipient schools are targeted and prioritized by need and qualified by interviews and site visits. At each of the schools targeted for assistance by The Heart of America Foundation, more than 65% of the students are on meal assistance and more than 25% of the students are reading at or below basic levels. In addition to validating need, site visits evaluate the quality and commitment of the schools staff and obtain assurances that books we donate will reach the children and be appropriately used.