On April 24, Rex Mill Middle School and Carson Scholars Fund celebrated the opening of a new Think Big Reading Room, marking the creation of an inviting new space specially designed to inspire students to further their love of reading. Located in Rex, Georgia, the reading room was the 312th reading room designed and built in the United States and the 63rd sponsored by the wonderful Eleni and Wolfgang Gagon Trust.

Designed specifically for the school’s middle school students, the space was created through collaboration with both students and educators to resemble a modern café, offering an environment where students can relax and dive into a good book. The room is centered around the theme “Reading is a Vibe,” incorporating colors and design elements inspired by the school’s mascot, a bee, creating an energetic ambience.

One of the most special things about this space is that students were directly involved in the project, they helped choose 1,100 books to fill the shelves; as well as aiding in the selection of motivational quotes and inspirational posters throughout the room. This offered students the opportunity to choose messages that directly speak to them and their needs. This collaboration created a space that reflects messages of confidence, growth, and seeing reading as something that is empowering.

The opening of this Think Big Reading Room reflects Rex Mill Middles School’s commitment to creating collaborative spaces with educators, students, and community supporters where students can find themselves, foster a strong love of reading and learn to thrive. We are excited to celebrate the successful launch of this reading room and look forward to having students create meaningful memories in the space.