Computer inaugurated in Achuapa Library

by Brett Leghorn

January 18th witnessed an afternoon full of energy and excitement at the the María Felix Corea library in Achuapa. On that afternoon, ProNica sponsored a community event to celebrate the municipal library and its promising future. The cause for such celebration: the inauguration of a donated computer from ProNica. The event was attended by dozens of children from the community, as well as parents, teachers, and civic leaders.

The event got underway with an inspiring speech by Rafaela Valaverde, the woman who started the library in Achuapa some ten years ago and who still runs the important institution. Rafaela recounted the humble beginnings of the library and her continual efforts to acquire more books and supplies. "It has been a very difficult struggle for this library," Rafaela maintained. Rafaela mentioned the support NGOs such as ProNica—which in fact has supplied the majority of the library’s books—as vital to the success of the library.

Lillian Hall, Nicaraguan coordinator of ProNica, was on hand to make a brief speech and officially inaugurate the donated computer. With the new donation, she explained, children will now be able to play educational games and learn typing skills.

Another important figure in attendance was Don Milán Valenzuela, the newly elected Sandinista mayor of Achuapa. In his address, he voiced his commitment to the library, because "the future of our people lies in the education of our children."

All in attendance received refreshments, and the event concluded with a raucous piñata celebration. It was truly a great sight: the children in Achuapa dancing and taking their swings at the huge purple dinosaur (yes, the piñata was in the shape of Barney). Don Milán, a true "hombre del pueblo" (man of the people), called for a dancing contest after the piñata had been successfully emptied. The mayor awarded Barney’s head to a tireless 10-year-old who out-danced his peers.

Also on hand at the event were several students of a delegation from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg and ProNica volunteer Brett Leghorn, which added a sense of international solidarity to the event.

Author’s note: As a volunteer at the library, I have already noticed an increase in attendance in the weeks since the arrival of the computer! The kids are very enthused with this new addition to their library. Also, I have been offering daily English classes, and the interest of the children is growing stronger with every class.

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Computer inaugurated in Achuapa Library

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