By D.D. Rathnayake
Dr. Megan Welter, Associate Commissioner for Public Education at Maine Department of Education, set the tone for an extraordinary celebration of diversity and inclusion at the Westbrook Performing Arts Center on September 13, 2024.
“A warm welcome is so much better.”
—Dr. Megan Welter, Maine Department of Education
Hosted in partnership with I’m Your Neighbor Books, the Maine DOE launched a groundbreaking initiative, the Pine Project: Welcoming Library, marking a monumental moment for schools across Maine.
This first-of-its-kind project will distribute 6,180 vibrant, immigrant-themed picture books—known as the Welcoming Library—to every school district in Maine. This collection is more than just stories; it’s a bridge to understanding, featuring award-winning picture books that celebrate diversity, belonging, and acceptance.
Books That Spark Conversations
“These are not just books; they are tools for transformation.”
—Melanie Junkins, Multilingual and Bilingual Education Specialist, Maine DOE.
The 30 carefully curated titles come with built-in discussion prompts designed to foster meaningful conversations between students and educators.
“These books are mirrors, reflecting the lives and experiences of the students who read them.”
—Dr. Megan Welter, Maine Department of Education
From Maine to the Nation
Kirsten Cappy, Executive Director of I’m Your Neighbor Books and Pine Project Lead, shared the remarkable journey of the Welcoming Library. What began in 2017 as a mobile book-and-discussion initiative has now evolved into a permanent presence in Maine classrooms.
“Thanks to the Maine DOE, any teacher in the state can now access these books and use them to build a culture of belonging.”
-Kirsten Cappy, Executive Director of I’m Your Neighbor Books, and Pine Project Lead
Stories That Connect Us All
The event was a sensory delight, with highlights like a spirited reading of I’m an American by Westbrook Middle School students. This book is part of the Welcoming Library collection and the soon-to-launch Pine Project: Professional Development—a self-guided training program that equips educators to teach critical concepts like self-awareness, relationship skills, and cultural understanding.
“Through these stories, we celebrate the beautiful tapestry of humanity. They are windows into cultures that deserve to be seen and understood.”
—Charles Mugabe, Director of Migration at Catholic Charities Maine
Designed with Maine in Mind
The initiative’s attention to detail extends beyond the books. Each Welcoming Library includes a specially designed bookshelf crafted by Nomak Design and Orion Woodworking, topped with signage from Banacom Sign, and packed with care by Volk Packaging volunteers.
An Unforgettable Event
The celebration brought together a vibrant mix of voices, from Dr. Peter Lancia, Superintendent of Westbrook Schools, to local authors like Francie Latour, who eloquently stated:
“America would not be America without the traditions of its immigrant communities. We all belong to each other.”
—Author Francie Latour
A Lasting Impact
Funded through Federal Emergency Relief, the Pine Project represents Maine’s commitment to its Whole Student Pandemic Response, addressing both the academic and emotional needs of students. It’s a timely reminder that belonging and connection are foundational to learning.
With heartfelt thanks to all the educators, volunteers, and partners who brought this initiative to life, The Pine Project is a shining example of how stories can shape hearts and minds.
Together, we’re creating a world where every student feels seen, valued, and welcomed.
