South Colonie Central School district leaders, along with fourth grade students, helped cut the ribbon on the new library at Veeder Elementary School. 

In the first major expansion of the elementary school in nearly 20 years, the new library is located in a fully renovated wing that includes four new kindergarten classrooms and a new nurse’s suite.

"This new library addition is far more than a place to store books,” said Assistant Superintendent for Management Services and Strategic Planning Jacqlene McAllister. “We designed this space to inspire our students to explore new ideas, and develop a genuine love for reading and exploration from their very first days in school."

The library is nearly double the size of the previous space, features two new modern touch-screen monitors, full air conditioning, and a stunning timber framework that dramatically transforms the look of the exterior of the building. The update also adds a dedicated library classroom, as well as an outdoor courtyard for hands-on, open-air learning.

“This building is yours,” Veeder Library Media Specialist Sarah Bosch told students at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “And the books that are inside are your treasure, and we hope that it brings you joy for many years to come.”

Students have kept a close watch on the progress of their new library during the construction process. Last school year, Bosch partnered with teachers to include the construction in their lesson plans. Students learned how to read architecture plans and even had the opportunity to thank the people who were building their new library. 

The library and kindergarten wing expansion at Veeder is part of the 2022 voter-approved Next Generation Capital Project, a multi-phase districtwide initiative aimed at upgrading infrastructure, improving safety, and creating modern instructional spaces for all South Colonie students.

“The Next Generation Capital Project is a direct, visible reflection of our community's trust and vision,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “Every dollar invested by our taxpayers in this capital project is a direct investment in our children's futures, giving them the modern, safe, and innovative learning environments they deserve to thrive for years to come."