Chattanooga Man Honors Mother by Creating a Community Library
In the charming city of Chattanooga, a heartwarming story has emerged as a local man has dedicated his efforts to build a library in honor of his mother, who instilled a love of reading in her family despite having to overcome significant challenges herself.
A Mother’s Legacy
Tommy Alexander recently celebrated the grand opening of this beautiful library, which serves as a tribute to his mother, Ada Mae Alexander. Born in Alabama in 1918, Ada Mae faced hardships early in life, including not learning to read as a child. However, her passion for books and belief that reading is crucial for children became a legacy she passed on to her family.
“She always said that reading was fundamental,” Tommy shares, and now he is fulfilling that vision through this wonderful project.
A Treasure Trove of Books
The library is a treasure trove for readers, boasting an impressive collection of 1,500 books. It features everything from coloring books for the little ones to engaging reads like the New York Times bestseller “The January 6th Report”. Tommy has ensured that the library reflects his mother’s spirit, filling it with motivational quotes and creating a warm, inviting space for the next generation.
Tommy didn’t cut corners either! He crafted the bookshelves himself and funded the entire project, which totaled around $14,000. Every dollar spent was an investment in the future of countless children who will benefit from the new collection.
The Community’s Reaction
The library has already made quite the splash among local families. Tommy’s niece, Az’ari Jordan, who is in the third grade and has a growing love of reading, expressed her excitement. “I want to be a doctor!” she excitedly shared. “I want to check your ears, check your nose, and give you a shot, which I don’t like.” Her enthusiasm perfectly captures the joyful energy that this library aims to foster.
Community Support and Collaboration
Victoria Muhammad, an advocate with the Community Haven, noted that Tommy approached them with the idea for the library. The Community Haven is a fantastic non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in Chattanooga, and they saw the potential in Tommy’s vision.
Tommy praised their support, saying the collaboration has helped turn his dream into reality. With the support of locals and organizations, the library is set to be a beacon of literacy in the area.
A Mission Accomplished
As Tommy looks around at the bustling activity in the library, his heart swells with pride. For him, the project means more than just books on a shelf; it represents a fulfillment of his mother’s legacy. “When children come here and discover the joy of reading, that’s when I know I’ve accomplished my mission,” he said.
With the love for literature that Ada Mae fostered in her family living on through this special library, Tommy Alexander has not only created a community resource but has also crafted a beautiful tribute to a beloved mother.
So, in Chattanooga, a new chapter begins, quite literally, as children and families immerse themselves in the pages of countless stories, thanks to one man’s devotion to honoring his mother’s cherished belief in the power of reading.
