CSLA Betty Barkema School Library Improvement Grant

As the winner of the CSLA Betty Barkema School Library Improvement Grant in 2015, I applied for this grant as a supplemental funding source for current renovations to Lafayette Elementary School Library in Long Beach, Ca.  Using LCFF funds with LBUSD approval, the Lafayette Library Media Center was created; a library and adjoining 35 desktop computer lab.  Large picture windows and a doorway separate the two spaces, allowing for the rooms to be used separately or as one continuous space. The remodeled library needed a space for 8 new laptops for online catalog access.

The goal of my grant proposal was to seamlessly integrate purchased laptops in the new library media center.  As space is always premium and the library is a multipurpose room; used for staff meetings, parent trainings, and library classes, I researched DEMCO Technolink Stations as the perfect solution to house the laptops used by students for access to our online catalog.  The multi-station free standing unit could hold two laptops and the single station could be attached to the wall, with adjustable shelf, I could place two more laptops and the others sit on bookshelves in one section of the library. I contacted DEMCO for a quote and used it in my grant proposal. I was totally shocked and excited to be the grant winner!! 

DEMCO has so many solutions to updating our libraries; seating, book shelving, tech integration...the possibilities are endless!  Thank you to CSLA/DEMCO Betty Barkema School Library Improvement Grant for bringing Lafayette Elementary School Library into 21st Century Learning! 

 

Katherine Tacea

Teacher Librarian

Lafayette Elementary School

Long Beach, Ca