Why Replace the Library?

HOPE believes that by converting the old library into a two-story atrium and by constructing a new library, the entire Columbine community will achieve an honorable and successful solution to the future of Columbine High School.

Through the closure of the old library we, as a community, will remember the victims of April 20, 1999, and we will also protect the Columbine students and staff from the painful memories associated with this tragedy. It is the wish of HOPE that the new atrium and library will serve as another step in Columbine's healing process, and also provide a more positive learning environment for all students and staff of Columbine High School.

Through this construction project, HOPE believes that the site of the worst school massacre in American history:

• will become an area of respect to the victims without becoming a memorial;
• will allow the students and staff of CHS to reclaim this space without being forced to utilize the massacre site;
• will allow the Columbine community, the victims and the school district to come together and turn this tragedy into something more positive -- a constructive healing project.