Wednesday Target Corp. and The Heart of America Foundation unveiled a state-of-the-art library at George Washington Carver Elementary School in Dallas. As part of the 2012 Target School Library Makeover program, which includes plans to give more than $12 million to support education, the retailer is unveiling new libraries at a total of 32 in-need elementary schools across the country. In addition, Target will award $15,000 reading grants to four Dallas schools that previously received library makeovers.
“The new library is an amazing gift for our school and our students,” said Joe Estrada, principal, George Washington Carver Elementary School. “Thanks to Target and The Heart of America Foundation, our students have the resources they need to feel inspired and ready to learn when they walk through our school doors.”
The new library at George Washington Carver Elementary School features 2,000 new books, furniture, carpet and shelves, and a complete technology upgrade, including new iPads. The program also provides seven new books for each student to take home following the unveiling celebration.
“At Target, we understand that a quality education is integral to the success of a child’s future,” said Laysha Ward, president of community relations, Target. “Through the Target School Library Makeover program, we aim to pave a path to graduation for more U.S. students by equipping them with the resources they need to excel in the classroom and beyond.”
“Since 2007, our partnership with the Target School Library Makeover program has helped to turn more than 100 dilapidated libraries into vibrant centers of learning,” said Angie Halamandaris, president and co-founder of The Heart of America Foundation. “This year, we are proud to continue our partnership with Target. By revitalizing 32 school libraries across the country, we are helping to create new spaces that inspire students, parents and community members to love reading.”
Target’s commitment to the Dallas community extends beyond the Target School Library Makeover program. In 2011, Target contributed more than $2 million to support the Dallas community. Target’s support included funding programs and initiatives, such as Target Field Trip Grants and Take Charge of Education.
