Daniella Henry's letter inspired the NCB Foundation to help her school's library. - Contributed

Daniella Henry's assignment letter was a dream come true for Balmagie Primary School, as it wooed the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation to donate $100,000 to help the institution's library dramatically increase its book complement.

It all started when Daniella, 11, observed that the library was underserved, and her grade-five teacher asked the class to write letters soliciting sponsorship. Daniella's letter caught the foundation's eye.

"On behalf of the school library, I am writing this letter to ask for your assistance. The school library is completely in need of more books for our information and our enjoyment," Daniella had written to NCB.

In an interview with The Gleaner, Daniella said she was elated that her plea had not fallen on deaf ears.

"It felt really great that NCB responded and I really appreciate this donation they made to the school," she said, beaming.

Daniella said that prior to the foundation's assistance, both the book numbers and subject variety were a turn-off for students who visited Balmagie's library.

Despite assistance from the Jamaica Library Service through its book-loan programme, the school still struggled to provide enough reading material, the librarian said. Sometimes, reading sessions had to be split in two to ease the cramming inside the library.

Commitment to youth

Bridgette Rhoden, public relations and communication officer at the NCB Foundation, said the project formed part of the organisation's commitment to youth education.

"We were very moved by Daniella's letter when she wrote to NCB Foundation seeking assistance on behalf of her school, teachers and friends, and especially her initiative to become an agent of change within her community," Rhoden told The Gleaner.

Evon Lennon, principal of Balmagie Primary, said the donation would encourage students to be ready for reading competitions. The book boost will also help programmes aimed at developing literacy levels, Lennon added.

Henry, along with the librarian and another schoolmate, got the opportunity to choose books that she believed would best pique students' interest.

"Life is better now as some of the computers are fixed, and we have access to Internet. The books are fun, interesting and educational," Daniella told The Gleaner. "I have learnt never to put your hope down and it is always good to try."

sonia.mitchell@gleanerjm.com