Recently, U.S. Congressman Steve Scalise visited the Harry Hurst Middle Library on behalf of the U.S. Congress and the National Endowment for Humanities. As one of thousands of libraries around the country whom received the “Picturing America” Bookshelf, Hurst received 17 hardcover books and 20 pieces of laminated art reproductions with the theme of “We the People.” Through the Picturing America initiative, the NEH aims to tell the story of America through its art. The program seeks to introduce Americans to their artistic heritage and inspire them to become more informed citizens.

Students in a Language Arts class, a American history class, a talented art class, and Noel Smith’s special education class attended a brief 45 minute reception in the library where the congressman read to the students and answered questions pertinent to government and American Literature.

K-12 public, private, parochial, and charter schools and home school consortia and public libraries in the United States and its territories interested in the Picturing America initiative can learn more at website http://picturingamerica.neh.gov/.

Harry Hurst Middle Librarian Susan Benedetto speaks to Congressman Steve Scalise and Hurst students during a reception recognizing the award of books and art reproductions through the NEH Picturing America Initiative.