WACO, TX- Tuesday evening, Mountainview Elementary School (MVE) rededicated its renovated campus library to former Principal Raymond Weldon and Librarian Dottie Buchanan with the help of more than 150 current and former students, staff, and families.

“There have been many influential people over the years who have made Mountainview the school that we are today,” said Cari Detlefsen, Principal of MVE. “We have the opportunity to honor two pillars of our history-Mr. Raymond Weldon and Mrs. Dottie Buchanan. These two outstanding individuals have impacted thousands of lives, and we want their legacy to be forever remembered here on campus and in the community.”

Weldon served as principal at MVE for 13 years from 1987-2000 and worked in education for 41 years. Buchanan, also known as Mrs. B, was a beloved librarian at MVE for 32 years. She retired in 2018 and passed away shortly after. Her passion for books inspired many students, even the reluctant readers, to fall in love with reading. Many MVE alumni will tell you that she is the reason they love reading to this day. 

“The library isn’t a library without a librarian,” said MVE fifth grader, Isabella De La Fuente. “I am also thankful for Ms. B. She was here when I was younger. I remember her wonderful stories, treats, and fun attitude. We miss her.” 

MVE’s Weldon-Buchanan Library was recently updated with more than 8,000 new books, new kid-friendly furniture, and a new layout as a part of district-wide literacy initiatives. Since April 2022,  every elementary and middle school library has benefited from the district’s investment of $2.4 million in new books for campus libraries and $1.5 million in furniture and shelving to make those libraries more functional, welcoming spaces.

These improvements have not gone unnoticed by students and several shared their favorite library activities or features in their speech. 

“I love our library because there are fun spots to read in, calm music, and great books to read,” said MVE fifth grader, Patrick Jones.

Waco ISD is thrilled to provide a renovated space that encourages reading while also honoring two beloved former staff members.

Please click here to view more photos from the event.