The Gray-New Gloucester Middle School Library is one of 14 libraries in the state of Maine to be awarded a “We the People Bookshelf,” a collection of books from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

In addition, the middle school Art Department received “Picturing America,” reproductions of 40 works of great American art.

The library has received some of the books already, along with posters, bookmarks, and other promotional materials, through the American Library Association, which is working in partnership with the NEH.

“I thought that given the economic times, that bringing these books into the library was a good thing,” said librarian Kim Allen.

Middle school art teacher Barbara Weed said she is excited to have the reproductions as a teaching tool and is incorporating them into curriculum for the coming school year. “The materials can also be used in all classrooms,” said Weed.

Gray-New Gloucester Middle School librarian Kim Allen and art teacher Barbara Weed hold materials received from National Endowment for the Humanities. The illustrated reproductions and literature is part of the “We the People” program, which supports projects that strengthen the teaching, study, and understanding of American history and culture.