Surprise! Library Transformation Effort Grows to 48 PGCPS Media Centers

The energy inside Frederick Douglass High School was unmistakable as students, educators and partners gathered to mark a milestone: the completion of a sweeping effort to reimagine school libraries across Prince George’s County Public Schools.

What began as an ambitious vision has become reality — 47 fully redesigned library media centers built to foster learning, creativity and connection. By the end of the event, that number grew. Surrattsville High School was announced as the 48th school to join the initiative, drawing an enthusiastic response from the crowd.

The transformation effort, led in partnership with Heart of America and Pull Up Fund, represents one of the largest public school library redesign projects in the nation — and one of the most significant public-private partnerships focused exclusively on reimagining school libraries.

Each library renovation took approximately 12 to 14 weeks to complete, and schools chose from several innovative models, including Collective Learning and Literacy Hubs, STEAM Innovation Labs and STEM Exploration Centers.

As part of the transformation, Heart of America provided more than 72,000 culturally relevant books reflecting the diversity of the district’s students. The redesigned spaces feature a nature-inspired aesthetic, incorporating natural materials and lighting to create a calm, welcoming environment. They are also equipped with modern tools,  from 3D printers to collaborative workspaces, designed to support hands-on, student-centered learning.

Student voices underscored the impact.

During a panel discussion, Frederick Douglass High School seniors Kennedy Mackall and Keith Johnson, along with junior Whitney Croom, described their reimagined media center as “open, inviting and intentionally designed for students.” They pointed to expanded resources, including dedicated printing equipment for posters and project materials, as tools that directly support their academic work.

Mackall highlighted the importance of access, noting that for students without nearby public libraries, school-based resources can be critical.

Library media specialist Dana Blair said the transformation has already changed how students engage with reading and research.

“We’re seeing students reconnect with books,” Blair said. “With new titles and tools like a 3D printer, they’re excited to come in, explore and create.”

That shift is not unique to Douglass. Beryl Brackett, library media specialist at Friendly High School, said students who previously avoided the library are now choosing to spend time there.

The initiative is backed by a multi-million-dollar investment, with Pull Up Fund serving as a key funding partner. Based in Prince George’s County, the organization has a long history of supporting education, youth development and health initiatives in historically underserved communities.

For Katrina Lamont, principal of Surrattsville High School and the recipient of the initiative’s surprise final project, the announcement represented more than a facilities upgrade.

“This opens the door to endless opportunities,” she said.