This spring, the John Wetten Elementary library was transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space where imagination, learning and wonder come alive—thanks to a generous grant awarded by the Gladstone Education Foundation (GEF) and additional funding from the JWE Parent Faculty Organization (PFO). What began as a dream shared by our beloved school mascot, The Loveable Leopard, became a joyful reality for over 600 students.
The grant application materials were uniquely crafted in the form of a children’s book titled "The Loveable Leopard’s Library Wish," in which our mascot dreams that a library fairy appears to grant wishes to "Library Guardians who are kind, loyal and true." The Loveable Leopard thinks carefully about how to make the library cozier, calmer and easier to explore—wishing for new rugs, lights, seating, graphics, wayfinding signs and delightful artwork. Thanks to the funding and support of GEF and the JWE PFO, our very own “library fairies” granted these wishes with enchanting touches that have brought magic and meaning into the space.
Each area of the library now celebrates a theme inspired by Oregon’s beautiful and diverse geography, including:
🌲 The Loveable Leopard’s Treehouse (Forest)
🌄 The Painted Hills/High Desert
🌊 The Oregon Coast
⛰ The Columbia River Gorge
🏙 Portland Cityscape
🏰 Fantasy Castle
🌈 Reading Rainbow
🚀 Galaxy Exploration/Space
With fun facts about reading in each zone and hidden mousehole graphics tucked throughout the space, students now have a more engaging, organized and calming environment that encourages discovery and supports emotional well-being.
A heartfelt thank you to JWE Librarian and Media Coordinator Nicole Denniston for spearheading the grant application, coordinating all orders and leading installation. Deep appreciation also goes to JWE parent Elsa Long for designing the space layout, developing graphics, assembling the procurement list, drafting the grant proposal and assisting with installation. Huge thanks to JWE PFO Co-Presidents Patty Stephens and Audri Wolf for their vital funding and hands-on installation support; Principal John McAndrews for championing the project; JWE Head Secretary Katie Leitzel for order logistics; Gladstone High School Prints for producing graphics and signage; Head Custodian Kelsey Slocom for installation help; Gladstone School District Communications Coordinator Raymond Rendleman for documenting behind the scenes and assisting with installation; and of course, to the Gladstone Education Foundation for making the entire reimagination possible through their grant award.
To help us understand the impact of the reimagined space, an elementary student and teacher survey is currently underway. The survey aims to collect feedback, comments and insights about how the enhancements are being used and how they are supporting the reinvigoration of library education and learning at JWE. We look forward to sharing those reflections soon!
At John Wetten, we believe libraries are more than just shelves of books—they are safe, welcoming spaces that nurture the minds and hearts of our students. This new chapter in our library’s story is already sparking joy, wonder and a deep love of reading for our students now and for years to come.