The Lavié Library

A design completed by Li.Saltzman Architects, PC based in New York City. Click here to see descriptions, unit estimates, floor plans and rendering, etc. This library will be the first in the region.

Change must be initiated by the people for the people. Planting the seeds of that change by helping children who otherwise would not be able to complete or get an education is the ultimate mission of the Children of Lavié. The fulfillment of this mission will equip everyone with the ability to succeed, and in turn serve as catalysts for change and development in their communities.

 

In a region where libraries are simply nonexistent, how realistic is it to fulfill this mission without cultivating the seeds of change in these potentially great minds that remain kept in the dark? How realistic is it to fulfill this mission without creating an environment that facilitates and inspires a lifelong love of reading and learning?

 

It is not only that we cannot even begin to answer these questions without a plan for the construction of a much needed library to help open and expand the mind, but also, our mission would be a sad illusion never to be fulfilled without it.

 

The Children of Lavié is calling for contributions to fund its Library project in Lavié. Your gift is needed for the fulfillment of the mission. Please help.

Construction will be scheduled as soon as enough funding is raised. Once all resources are assembled, it will take nine months to complete the project.

The design of the much needed library, as proposed by Li/Saltzman Architects, PC, provides 10,000 square feet for:

 

• books
• periodicals
• videos and DVDs
• televison
• computers
• quiet reading areas
• meeting spaces

 

The library will serve not only as a lending source for books, newspapers and magazines, but will also function as a place for students to access information and educate their minds as well as a community resource that supports the educational, cultural and informational needs of all in the region, including children and teens.

The library will include, among other features, a copy center which will meet the direct needs of students who, for the first time, will have the opportunity to make copies of the materials they cannot afford to own.

The library will contain a broad range of books for all age groups including:

• fiction
• nonfiction
• world literature
• works covering the sciences, history, technology
• reference books (encyclopedias, dictionaries and teaching aids)

Through computers and Internet facilities, we hope to be able to link the students and all residents with the rest of the world for a global learning experience.

More than just a library, it will be a place for vibrant discussions, studies and workshops. We anticipate partnering with organizations such as Peace Corps and local NGOs to offer language and technology training as well as a limited number of trade programs tailor made to meet local needs or any other trade programs that might be particularly helpful for local women.

Across West Africa, information on a variety of issues – health, agriculture, education, science, technology, culture and more – are needed to help citizens, governments, civil society and others address daily challenges and improve their lives. The new Lavié Library will be an attractive destination and a valuable educational tool for children and for all residents. It will help reinforce and augment what children learn in school and will inspire a lifelong love of learning. It will also strengthen the Lavié community and enhance the quality of life for all.

Click here to view all images of the library’s design.