Mercy Centre Library - GRAND OPENING






Short History of the Mercy Centre Library November 2009







20 May 2009

Hi Folks!
Below is an update on the progress towards realizing the construction and opening of a library associated with the Mercy Center for children in need, located in the heart of Klong Toey.
As you know, early in 2008, we were seeking funds and other resources for the library project called, “BOOKS FOR KIDS”. At that time friends and colleagues from all over the city, country and even the far reaches of the world generously gave books, money, time and services to help realize the vision.
The Human Development Foundation (HDC) and the Mercy Center team promised to deliver a room that would be suitable as a library. After resolving construction and transition activities, the team at HDC has now officially handed over the room. “BOOKS FOR KIDS” has a home!

OUR VISION
Provide a foundation for long lasting positive development in the lives of children and their families who need help.

OUR OBJECTIVES
Provide access and tools to promote literacy for children in need.
Provide an inviting space for children and adults at the Mercy Center enjoy and have access to a wide range of literature and learning support.
Provide the Mercy Center with a quality facility to offer to the community of Klong Toey.
Provide support for continuing education through the supply of books for specific needs.
Provide as many books and support as possible to the many other associated Mercy Center satellite kindergarten facilities throughout the greater Bangkok area.


TARGET OPENING DATE & CONTINUING SUPPORT
The projected date of completion is September/October 2009. We will continue to raise money to purchase books and materials for the library and other associated Mercy Center satellite kindergarten facilities throughout the Bangkok area. See details on how to participate below!

PROGRESS
Numerous volunteers have donated generous amounts of Thai language books and money for the purchase of additional Thai language books.
Human Development Center and the Mercy Center team have delivered an excellent room to build the first “BOOKS FOR KIDS” library in the heart of Klong Toey.
Numerous individuals and companies have offered to support the outfitting of the room. The range of support is vast, including students, parents, concerned citizens and some qualified experts with needed skills.
Several teachers and professionals from a variety of companies and schools have volunteered key services such as:
-direction from a volunteer interior design professional for furniture procurement at volume pricing through contacts and suppliers
-procurement support from a volunteer Thai national for ordering and purchase of Thai language books and other types of learning support tools at volume pricing
-expertise and support from ISB education and library professionals to design, organize and implement a working library that will continue to grow and thrive
-financial support from numerous companies and volunteer organizations such as Eastern Friends Golf Tournament, Pearl Oil, Asetanian Marine, EMAS, Prima Oilfield Services, BIW and many individual contributions from family, friends and many employees at Chevron
-funds and donations are now being used to purchase, fabricate and install high quality shelving, flooring, fans, lights and paint
-besides being painted and freshly renovated, the room will be enhanced to set a cheerful, peaceful environment with artwork and designs including a beautiful mosaic

LIBRARY LAYOUT & DESIGN
The library will be divided into three main sections: early childhood, middle school and young adult.
The biggest section of the library will be dedicated to early childhood development and this area will include a special listening center for stories to be read aloud.
A periodical section in the young adult area will include magazines and reference materials related to parenting, health, nutrition, mechanics, electronics, computing and other practical resources of high interest.