Revitalization journey improved space, diversified book selection

July 16, 2025 / Over the past year, the library at Chiloquin Junior/Senior High School has been transformed — evolving from a dated, underutilized space into a vibrant, culturally affirming sanctuary that reflects and supports the students it serves. The school’s library coordinator Kayce Womack, also known by her Klamath name Shuina Sko, spearheaded the change.

Womack, who started work at the library in September 2024, recognized early on that the space needed revitalization.

“My first impression was that the bookshelves and environment needed major attention to improve the vibe and to get students excited about being in the space,” she said. “The library didn’t match what I knew students needed,” Womack said, adding that Indigenous youth make up about 60% of the student body. “My goal was to create a safe space where all of the students feel seen and valued.”

Partnering with the Southern Oregon Education Service District and Library Media Specialist Miranda Doyle, Womack assessed the library’s collection and quickly discovered that the average book age was nearly 50 years old, and over 70% of non-fiction materials were outdated or irrelevant. Many texts contained racist content or scientifically inaccurate information.

Womack led the effort to weed out thousands of obsolete titles, significantly improving the collection’s quality — though the process revealed a critical shortage of diverse and culturally relevant content as well as a need for updated materials in technology and the sciences.

Over the last six months, book donations began to come in and by June, more than 100 books were donated — including Indigenous-authored titles from both local and international contributors. Gifts came from Klamath Tribes members, local author and therapist Renee Frye, and Saskatchewan First Nations author Jerilyn Alderman-Hansson. The school district also provided $1,000 towards the purchase of new books.

Additional items like rugs, games, and seating were secured via DonorsChoose. These enhancements turned the once-sterile space into one filled with cozy reading areas — now popular among students daily.

A standout feature of the renovation is a 30-foot-long mural painted by Womack with help from students. The mural features the CHS black panther mascot, the word “INSPIRE,” and a traditional Klamath basket design. Funds for the mural came from the Klamath County School District and from Will Hess, Klamath community liaison for On Track OHSU!

In addition, flags from several federally recognized Oregon tribes, including the Klamath Tribes, now proudly hang in the library, further reinforcing cultural pride and representation.

“Shuína has turned the library into a sanctuary; a peaceful place for students and teachers,” said Leona Anderson, an art teacher at Chiloquin. “This space has made a positive turnaround and things are continuing in that direction.”

Womack spent this past school year working on the dramatic transformation, but says there is more work to be done. However, Womack is moving out of the area and hopes the community will continue to support the school’s library project.

“I am beyond grateful for the support and donations received thus far,” she said. “More books are still needed and I hopeful donations will continue to trickle in.”