Lassen County Times
16 December 2003
Page 12B
By Bill Noonberg Staff writer
Wednesday, Dec. 10 was a banner day at the Herlong Library. The grand opening was officially celebrated at a library that was literally brought back from the brink of extinction.
Closed for more than three years, it was about to be closed on a permanent basis and the army was going to sell the books. But a "never-say-die" effort on the part of some of the concerned residents brought the library back.
Vivian Peterson, a Herlong resident, showed the building to County Supervisor Jack Hanson during the past summer and through their efforts, the efforts of Mickey Matthews, the director of the library, and energetic volunteers, the library opened again.
Hanson was joined by County Administrative Officer Andy Whiteman at the function and gave kudos to everyone involved.
Peterson told Hanson, while looking through the window at a closed-up building,
"This is really a shame."The task of cataloging all of the books, dusting off the shelves and getting everything ready was monumental, but all of that effort came together and was celebrated by many of the residents and those involved in getting it done at the grand opening.
"Colonel Paul Plemmons (Sierra Army Depot Commander) helped a great deal. He wanted to be a good neighbor and see the community prosper," said Peterson. "We also want to recognize the help of Jack Hanson."
The library hours are 1-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.