PHILIPSBURG:--- As the 2025–2026 school year has begun, the Sint Maarten Library welcomes students, educators, and families with renewed enthusiasm, exciting opportunities, and a strong focus on academic growth. This year, we encourage all students to take full advantage of one of the most powerful tools for success: the joy of reading and the resources available at our three locations—Philipsburg, Cay Hill, and Belvedere.

“Reading is the foundation of lifelong learning,” said the General Manager of the Sint Maarten Library. “Whether exploring fiction, researching science topics, or learning new skills, books open the door to imagination, knowledge, and critical thinking.”

Each library location is fully stocked with new materials and digital resources for students of all ages and interests. Our librarians and administrative specialists are ready to help students discover materials that spark curiosity, build literacy, and support their academic journey.

Since 2024, the Sint Maarten Library has offered free library memberships to all children aged 0 to 18. This initiative promotes lifelong learning and strengthens communities by making essential resources accessible to every child.

This school year, we encourage students to:

• Read daily, both in and outside of the classroom
• Explore genres beyond their comfort zones
• Use library spaces for research, collaboration, and quiet study
• Take advantage of our digital databases and online services through the library's website

As we begin this new academic term, we invite all students to dream big, read often, and make the most of every opportunity. Let us make 2025–2026 a year of curiosity, creativity, and success!

For more information about reading programs and library services, visit the Sint Maarten Library website at www.library.sx or follow us on all major social media platforms.

Remember our motto: “Reading is Fundamental.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Library has added a compelling new book, Art at the Sea, to its collection. This book was generously donated by the L.O.V.E 2 L.E.A.R.N. Foundation and was entirely created by local youth celebrating 12 of Sint Maarten’s influential pioneers, both living and late.

Across fields such as politics, media, music, culture, and economics, these young contributors honor the legacies of individuals who have significantly shaped the Sint Maarten community through heartfelt storytelling and expressive artwork.

With the school term underway, Art at the Sea stands as more than a tribute to local history. It exemplifies the power of youth engagement, creativity, and community contribution. The book also serves as a valuable research resource, showcasing the artistic and intellectual investment of its student contributors.

Librarian M. Powell expressed gratitude on behalf of the Sint Maarten Library: “Art at the Sea is a welcome and meaningful addition to our collection. It not only honors important figures in our nation’s history but also highlights the immense talent of our youth. We are deeply thankful to the L.O.V.E 2 L.E.A.R.N. Foundation for this donation and for their continued commitment to education and cultural preservation.”

Art at the Sea is now available to the public for research at the Sint Maarten Library.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Since 2018, the Sint Maarten Lions Club has proudly upheld its tradition of welcoming students back to school with warmth and encouragement. This year, Lions members visited Prince Willem Alexander School on Wednesday, August 20th, and Martin Luther King School on Monday, August 25th, personally greeting a total of 210 students at the school gates.

With smiles, cheers, and a small treat to kick off the academic year, students met with enthusiasm and positivity, setting the tone for a year of growth and learning.

In its sixth year of this heartfelt initiative, the Lions Club expanded its gesture of appreciation by also honoring the dedicated teachers and staff. Each received a thoughtful token of gratitude in recognition of their tireless efforts to nurture and educate the island’s youth.

             “The Sint Maarten Lions Club has proudly executed our ‘Welcome Back to School’ project at the start of each academic year to show support for students and uplift the teachers and support staff who guide them,” said Lion President Alvin Prescod. “Education is a cornerstone of a brighter future—opening doors to opportunity and shaping tomorrow’s community leaders. We believe in showing appreciation through action, by being present in our schools and in our community.”

The Lions Club remains committed to serving the community In meaningful ways—championing education, celebrating school spirit, and fostering a culture of encouragement and inclusion from day one

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Departments of Sport, Culture, and Collective Prevention Services are pleased to announce the return of the Annual Health, Sport & Culture Expo, taking place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the John Cooper Jose Lake Ball Park.

The Expo, a signature community initiative, is designed to promote health awareness, physical activity, and cultural enrichment within the community of Sint Maarten. This year’s program will once again highlight the importance of wellness and healthy living through a variety of interactive and educational activities.

The Expo will feature:

• Free health screenings including Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and HIV testing.
• A Police Obstacle Course Challenge, open to the public, to test their skills and endurance.
• Interactive fitness and cultural classes, including Zumba, Capoeira, and Yoga.

“The Health, Sport & Culture Expo is about bringing our community together to learn, move, and celebrate wellness,” said Jonelle Richardson, Head of the Department of Sport. “It is an opportunity for everyone to take part in activities that benefit both body and mind, while also enjoying the diversity of our cultural practices.”

Eva Lista–de Weever, Head of Collective Prevention Services, said, “CPS is pleased to take part in this year’s Expo and remains thankful for the continued collaboration with government partners and community organizations as we work together to promote healthy living.”

In addition to health and sport, the Expo will also highlight Sint Maarten’s vibrant cultural scene. The Department of Culture emphasizes the importance of the creative industry in the country’s development. “The development of the Cultural Creative Industry on Sint Maarten continues to be at the forefront of the agenda of the Department of Culture. As such, the department is encouraging all residents in our community to come out, partake and experience the diverse groups that will be featured at this year's Health Sport & Culture EXPO 2025.”

The general public is encouraged to come out and take advantage of this free and accessible event, designed to promote wellness, community spirit, and healthy living across Sint Maarten.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
🕖 Time: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Venue: John Cooper Jose Lake Ball Park
💰 Admission: FREE