History Fair Inspires $16,000 Commitment to Lincoln Avenue Public School Library

Ajax, ON - What began as a celebration of Canadian history has grown into an extraordinary moment of generosity for Lincoln Avenue Public School. Following the school’s annual Grade 8 “Greatest Canadian” History Fair, Indigo founder and Indigo Love of Reading Foundation chair Heather Reisman was so inspired by the students’ work that she committed a $16,000 donation from the Foundation to help transform and expand its library.

Reisman originally attended the History Fair as a special guest, supporting a student who profiled her philanthropic leadership and contributions to literacy in Canada. After meeting students, viewing their projects, and learning about the school community, she offered a remarkable donation: an opportunity for Lincoln Avenue PS to select books and educational materials directly from Indigo.

Students K-8, joined by their families and school staff visited an Indigo store and spent the evening choosing books for their school library across every genre and reading level – from graphic novels and fiction series to STEM titles, cookbooks, biographies, and classroom activity kits.

In a special highlight of the night, students were also invited to contribute to Indigo’s “Kids’ Picks”, adding their own recommendations to the store’s featured display of young readers’ favourite books.

Principal James Rowed shared how meaningful the experience was for the school community. “Our students already felt proud after the History Fair, but this gift has taken their excitement to another level. Heather Reisman’s generosity will enrich our library for years to come, and the opportunity for students to personally select the books that will fill our shelves made it even more special.”

The donation will allow Lincoln Avenue PS to significantly update and diversify its library collection, ensuring students have access to engaging and relevant reading materials that support both curriculum and curiosity.

The History Fair, which featured student research on notable Canadians such as Marc Garneau, Dr. Emily Stowe, Dr. Frederick Banting, Molly Burke, and Heather Reisman herself, has long been an annual highlight of the school, and this year it sparked an impact far beyond the classroom.