The new Itzamna Library was one of Na'atik's biggest projects yet and we couldn't have done it without the help of staff, donors, and the rest of the N'atik community. Now that it's open there's a still a lot more work to do in order to get our local students using it regularly and taking advantage of this great resource. However, now seemed like a good time to reflect on how far we've come to get to this point. So let's look back at some pictures of the library process.Phase 1: ConstructionNa'atik used to just be a one story building. The construction of the library, however, meant expanding to the second floor, which now also houses new classroom and office space.Phase 2: Outfitting the SpaceAfter construction was finished we needed to fill our shell with lights, paint, and furniture.

Phase 3: Painting

Of course that was just a base layer of paint. Our teacher Paul had a vision of making the space even more exciting and inviting by turning the walls into works of art.

Phase 3: Books

Of course what's a library without books? We have been so lucky to receive numerous donations over the past few years which have helped us build our collection. Now with the library open we finally have a place to house it all! Of course organizing, cataloging, and shelving all of those books wasn't an easy task but they sure do look great up on the shelves - and even better in the hands of our students!

Again a big thanks to everyone in the Na'atik community who made the library a reality. There's still so much to do and so many new opportunities to make the project impactful. But we never could have gotten this far without all the support we've received!

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The best way to experience the Mexican lifestyle is in person, with a Na’atik Immersion experience. Not only do you live with a local Mexican-Maya family, sharing home-cooked meals and free time, but also receive expert instruction in your chosen language at our school. Best of all, every immersion experience helps fund our subsidized and free local education program, helping local students to access opportunities and make their own futures.