Holmes unveils renovated LMC, marking milestone for district

The ribbon is cut to commemorate the opening of Holmes' renovated LMC

Dr. Michael Connolly, superintendent, speaks before the crowd at the ribbon-cutting for Holmes' renovated library and media center

Greg Klatecki, former president of the Village of Wheeling (and retired teacher from Holmes) watches on during the ceremony

Jenny Lagunas, principal of Holmes, describes how the new library is a huge change from her time as a student

Stephen Mogni, assistant principal for climate and culture, speaks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony

Avery L., a seventh grader at Holmes, offers her perspective on the new library

Julia Rosinski, library and media specialist, discusses how the renovations have transformed learning in the middle schools

Officials within Community Consolidated School District 21, along with several families and community members, gathered at Holmes Middle School during the afternoon of Thursday, April 3, to celebrate the grand reopening of the school’s fully renovated library and media center.

The vibrant, modernized space was designed to foster collaboration, creativity and 21st century learning. It was also one of four across the district – including Whitman, Longfellow and Poe Elementary Schools – to receive a complete transformation during the summer, fulfilling a key promise to update all LMCs into 21st century spaces as part of the $69 million referendum approved by voters in November 2018.

“This beautiful space is more than just a library—it’s a hub of innovation and curiosity, where students can explore, research, and grow,” said Dr. Michael Connolly, superintendent of District 21. “We’re proud to deliver on our promise to create modern learning environments in every one of our schools.”

The transformation was personal to Jenny Lagunas, principal of Holmes, who attended the middle school as a student.

“I remember walking around this space and admiring its beauty,” Lagunas said. “I have fond memories of working with my peers, listening to stories and browsing the latest books. Seeing it transform into this space has been incredible.”

The LMC at Holmes now features flexible seating; improved technology access; a room dedicated to science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum; expanded book collections; and welcoming spaces that support both independent study and collaborative projects.