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14 Arts & Crafts Show
Wild Things Happening at Your Library Librarians, like teachers, have a strong dedica-
on a homework project, that Maria took notice
of them could tackle this ambitious project.
tion to ensuring the educational success of their
that the children’s library area “could use more
Before contacting library administration
students. Also like teachers, librarians offer
color, something more lively and creative,” she
for permission, the two life-long friends needed
their time and talents without ever expecting
said. It was this observation that spawned the
to come up with an idea for the mural. As Maria
anything in return. The thought that they may
idea for a mural.
explains it, “We very quickly came up with the
help someone accomplish his or her educational goals, and in turn guide them to the next level of success, keeps librarians motivated. Occasionally, they get the incredible opportunity to meet and hear stories from patrons whose lives have been touched by their service. This article is about two local students who not only took the time to express their thanks to staff at the Aliante Library branch but who also donated their time and wonderful talent to create a lasting mural in the children’s library. Last school year, Maria Amescua Gibbons was a senior at Valley High School, involved in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. A requirement of the IB program is to create a service project that makes an improvement
The first step toward completing her mural
idea of doing a scene from the famous book,
to the local community. Maria saw the project
project was to enlist the help of her best friend,
‘Where the Wild Things Are.’ The illustrations
“more as an opportunity than a requirement,”
Daniela Gonzalez. Maria and Daniela met all
in this book were visually stunning and inspir-
she said, and she proceeded to come up with a
the way back in first grade, when they both
ing to both of us. We also decided to add addi-
great idea to use her artistic skills to brighten
attended Goynes Elementary School, located
tional children into the mural, to show diver-
the Aliante children’s library with a mural.
just down the street from Aliante Library. Dan-
sity. We wanted each child who walks into the
Maria was born and raised in the Las
iela also was a faithful patron of the library and
library to feel a connection toward the mural
Vegas area and is a longtime patron of Aliante
was happy to give back to an institution she
and to see themselves in it.” Maria and Dan-
Library. She remembers visiting the library and
frequented with her mom and sister. As Maria
iela created several different concept ideas and
checking out as many books as was allowed.
describes her, “Daniela is a talented artist with
contacted library administration for approval.
It was in her role as a faithful patron, working
a big heart,” and she was confident that the two
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