Spring 2015
HAPPENINGS
THE LIBRARY PROJECT
Library in rural China opens through DC initiative Funds raised during Discovery College’s Book Week last spring have been used to provide the Tai Xi Teaching Spot, an elementary school in Huai Ji County, Guangdong Province, China, with its own library. The new library recently opened and the students are enjoying the new facility. The initiative was launched in conjunction with The Library Project, and consisted of a reading challenge within the school community with the goal of funding a complete reading room to support students’ learning and reading and teachers’ professional development needs. Discovery College students attempted to read as many books as they could, and sought sponsors who pledged an amount for each book read. Students across the whole College participated, and by the end of the academic year HKD $21,082 (16,987 RMB) had been raised for The Library Project, meeting the goal necessary to establish the library. “The students worked very hard to read books, knowing that their reading was helping children in another school to have access to books and education,” said Principal Mark Beach. “We are very proud of their efforts and grateful for the opportunity to participate in this initiative.”
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THE LIBRARY PROJECT
The funds were used by The Library Project to purchase necessary supplies including 750 Chinese children’s books ranging from history and science to comic books and fairy tales; teacher’s books for local teachers to develop their skills; colourful chairs, tables and bookshelves to create a comfortable, safe and inviting space; artwork packages and educational toys; and training materials and supplies to support the local staff managing the library. “It’s such a meaningful event to build a library in rural China. It takes a continuous effort to encourage and sustain reading among children from everywhere,” said Kelly Lui, Discovery College library manager. When the Tai Xi Teaching Spot Library was officially opened, a plaque recognising Discovery College was proudly placed at the entrance. Discovery College students continued their tradition of service during Book Week 2015 participating in a reading challenge to support the building of a reading room in Hebei, China. Michelle Mouton Communications and Development Manager