Chattanooga Man Dedicates Local Library to His Beloved Mother
In the vibrant city of Chattanooga, a heartwarming story has emerged showcasing the power of love, family, and a passion for reading. A local man, Tommy Alexander, has taken a noble step to honor his mother’s legacy by constructing a library that stands as a tribute to her belief in the importance of reading for children.
A Dedication from the Heart
Tommy recently celebrated the grand opening of the library, a project he has poured his heart and soul into. Named after his mother, Ada Mae Alexander, who was born in Alabama in 1918, the library is not just a building; it’s a beacon of hope and knowledge for the local community. Sadly, Ada Mae was unable to learn to read during her childhood, but this did not diminish her belief that reading is a fundamental skill everyone should possess—especially for children.
The Story Behind the Project
Ada Mae’s granddaughter, Yakesha Love, shared the family’s inspiration behind this venture. It’s clear that the family is deeply rooted in the value of education, and they aim to pass that down to future generations. During the library’s opening ceremony, Tommy proudly announced that there are a whopping 1,500 books housed within the library. The collection ranges widely, from fun-filled coloring books for little ones to in-depth reads like the New York Times bestseller “The January 6th Report,” ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Building from Scratch
But it doesn’t stop there! Tommy didn’t just purchase the books; he took on the challenge of building the bookshelves himself and furnishing the library. The walls are adorned with motivational quotes aimed at inspiring young readers to uncover the joys of reading. The love and effort Tommy put into this project highlight his unwavering dedication to his mother’s memory and the betterment of the community.
A Young Reader’s Dreams
Among the library’s early visitors is Tommy’s niece, Az’ari Jordan, a bright-eyed third-grader with a big aspiration. While chatting with her, she shared her dream of becoming a doctor—one who would “check your ears and nose” and, of course, give shots, which she admits she’s not fond of. It’s young dreamers like Az’ari who will benefit immensely from Tommy’s initiative.
Community Impact and Support
Tommy collaborated with the local nonprofit, Community Haven, which is dedicated to improving lives and enhancing the overall welfare of the community. It’s truly inspiring to see how this library project is aligned with such a vital mission. Victoria Muhammad from Community Haven noted how Tommy approached them with this incredible idea, marking his determination to make a lasting impact.
The Investment in Knowledge
Investing a total of $14,000 into the library, Tommy expressed that every dollar was worth it. For him, this gesture goes beyond the financial cost—it’s about acknowledging his mother’s belief in the transformative power of reading. Seeing children flock to the library, immersed in stories, is a dream realized for him. As Tommy enthusiastically puts it, when that happens for the children who come to the library, “mission accomplished.”
As this delightful library continues to flourish, it stands not only as a tribute to Ada Mae but also as a shining example of how one person’s vision can lead to a positive change in the community. Here’s to many young readers discovering new worlds through the pages of a book!
