Grantmakers in the News

October 16, 2003

Robin Hood Foundation and New York City Department of Education Collaborate on L!brary Initiative, Creating Innovative and Inspiring Libraries

The L!brary Initiative, a unique collaborative project to re-imagine and rebuild public elementary school libraries, is a ground-breaking partnership of the Robin Hood Foundation and the New York City Department of Education. The Initiative is creating libraries that make the imagination soar and the heart sing. Behind the inspiring graphics, specially designed furniture, and thousands upon thousands of new books is the fundamental goal of improving literacy and achievement in public elementary schools.

With support from Mayor Bloomberg, corporate donors, and a team of volunteer architects, the partners are developing a blueprint to turn elementary school libraries into vibrant centers of teaching and learning that will serve as both a resource and catalyst to improve instruction. Each library is equipped with the latest technology, a carefully selected and extensive collection of books, and flexible space to accommodate multi-purposes. To staff the new, sophisticated facilities, the Initiative is helping librarians gain Masters Degrees in Library Education in collaboration with Syracuse University.

The new libraries will not only address low literacy skills (sixty percent of New York City public school students in grades 3 through 8 are reading below grade level), but are also designed to be a catalyst for learning. A modern library that is carefully integrated into the larger school agenda can impact a student's interest in broadening their education.

The L!brary Initiative has created 10 elementary school libraries. Twenty more libraries are now being designed and built and many more are planned. Low performing schools in high poverty neighborhoods will be given first priority for inclusion in the L!brary Initiative.