

March 4, 2007 – In keeping with it’s commitment to education and contributing to the communities in which its employees live and work, Spirol International has pledged $25,000 to the Bracken Memorial Library Renovation Project at Woodstock Academy. The planned renovation includes a new children’s section of the library which will be named in honor of Spirol International and its employees.
A dedicated committee of Woodstock Academy community members, faculty, staff, administrators and Trustees have been working diligently over the past two years to bring to fruition, a vision for the Howard Webster Bracken Library which not only serves as the Academy library, but as a public library for Woodstock and its surrounding communities. The renovation of the library was identified as a capital priority in the case statement of the Woodstock Academy Third Century Campaign, launched in 2001, and remains the first capital priority in the Academy’s strategic plan. As an integral part of the Academy curriculum, the Bracken Library must provide adequate support for the high quality education that Academy students are receiving.
"Our vision for the Library is one of an academic center for lifelong learning with access to high quality research through both traditional and electronic media," states Headmaster Richard Foye. "Of equal importance, is our historical connection to the community and commitment to preserve it."
Jeff Koehl, President of Spirol International, believes that Woodstock Academy’s library renovation project is a perfect fit within their mission and philosophy. "We believe strongly in investing in education and look specifically to support projects in our local community. One of our core beliefs is to help promote well rounded and educated youth. They are the future citizens and foundation of our community. Equally, we try to invest in local continuing adult education programs. Since the Bracken Library is both the Woodstock Academy Library and one of the main community libraries of Woodstock, the project fits both of our objectives. We are pleased to help this project become a reality."
The charitable arm of Spirol, the Spirol International Charitable Foundation, was created as a means to support the vision of the company’s founder, Herman Koehl, who believed strongly in the opportunities education provides in strengthening a community and our country. The Foundation’s purpose is to support local charitable endeavors, and particularly, educational programs. A large component of the Spirol International Charitable Foundation is the Spirol Scholarship Program, which, since 1993, has awarded over $300,000 in scholarships for worthy students. Other support programs include the Putnam Elementary School, the QVCC expansion project, and various other individual grant programs.