The American Embassy in Samoa has refurbished and revitalised the learning space for students at the American Corner in the Nelson Memorial Library Apia with the official unveiling of renovations on Thursday morning. 

A handing-over ceremony was held on Thursday morning to present the new tables, chairs, $2000 worth of books and a grant of $16,000 for the American space.

The United States' Regional Public Engagement Specialist, Scott Hartmann, flew in from Jakarta to present the donations on behalf of the Embassy.

He is a leading expert on American cultural spaces in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Mr. Hartmann said the American Corner at Nelson Library is known for its free internet access and air-conditioned rooms, but the goal is for over 600 American spaces in the world to be a gateway for the students of Samoa to access a network of knowledge, resources and opportunities.

"One of our main goals is to empower young people," he said.

"It is not just about giving you access to knowledge and free space for you to think and explore but its also about connecting you to opportunity."

He acknowledged their ongoing partnership with the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, saying he is glad that what they are trying to encourage at the American space aligns properly with some focal points of the Ministry.

"To expand programming and be a space for young people to challenge themselves to dream big and help connect with the outside world."