2003 Embassy Events
October 20, ENGLISH LIBRARY OPENED BY PEACE CORPS
Gori State University has a new English library with a collection of over 500 English-language materials, thanks to Peace Corps volunteer Edward Raupp. Mr. Raupp instigated the opening of this library and convinced Gori State University to renovate library space to house the new collection. University students were actively involved during and after the reconstruction - they helped paint, clean, and put shelves in the library, later decorating the walls with posters and photos, and shelving the books. Mrs. Miles, the Ambassador's wife, and U.S. embassy staff attended the grand opening of this English-language library on October 20, 2003. It was a gala event, attended by Gori Governor Paata Chkheidze, Peace Corps Director Norman Hickey, the Rector of Gori State University, and ETAG and British Council representatives. The opening was well covered by local TV and newspaper correspondents. The University Rector described Mr. Raupp’s work in Gori as "exemplary" and "remarkable. He acts as a real patriot of Georgia, promoting such an indispensable tool for students as a good library". The library was entirely funded by donations and should be a real centerpiece of Gori State University.
