A renovation almost 60 years in the making - the Burleigh Elementary School library received a major facelift this summer for the first time in its almost 60-year lifetime. The ceremonial ribbon-cutting took place on Wednesday, September 13 with Elmbrook Board of Education members, Burleigh School staff members, District staff, PTO representatives, and other donors and supporters in attendance. The updated space was designed by Allume Architects and includes a brand new, multi-purpose classroom space; story corner; small group rooms; integrated audio and technology, and soft-seating sections. The previous library consisted of hardwood seating alongside shelves and high-top stools from the school’s days as a junior high back in the 1960s-70s.
“We are thrilled to have such a grand, new space for our students to read and learn in,” stated Burleigh Principal Christian Pleister. “We are so grateful to all of our donors, the PTO, District administration, and the Board of Education for making this beautiful, welcoming space possible!”
Plans for a library renovation began in the Spring of 2019, but were placed on hold in 2020 due to the pandemic. Planning efforts resumed in 2022 and received approval from the Board of Education in January 2023. Construction began in June, and students were able to experience the new library on Monday, September 11.
You can view the ribbon-cutting video here and photos of the library here!