I know what this library means to you and your entire family, as well as an entire community that loved your neice. One of the most special moments of my life was having the opportunity to dedicate this library to honor the life of such a special girl. Indeed Elena Haasen’s ideals will live on forever, even in a far away small village in West Africa.

With lots of love, Steve

It has taken me a few days to formulate some coherent words that express what this library and your amazing work means to me. You quoted Nelson Mandela in your welcoming speech, who said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” These libraries provide this learning opportunity to so many children who might not otherwise have that chance. Your work to advocate for these children by actually “walking the walk” is inspiring. On a much more personal level, this particular library means so much to me and my family – Elena’s spirit will live on through the children, hopefully they will be motivated by the motto she strived to follow. It is so overwhelming to see that motto with Elena’s name on the plaque, as well as her name on the tile that hangs above the entrance of the library.

The great poet Maya Angelou once said “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him.” I hope that the books in the library will be the catalyst for many children in promoting their reading habits … Elena would have loved and certainly endorsed that.

With so much gratitude, Karen