New library branch to be information center for Springhill
Maria Gonzalez
Special to the Minden Press-Herald
SPRINGHILL — A line of townspeople wrapped around the building Sunday, at the Willie and Mary A. Mack Branch of the Webster Parish Library’s’ Grand Opening.
It’s been approximately 14 months since renovations began at the former Walgreens property on Highway 371, but Sunday those doors opened to reveal a wonderland of books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, magazines, newspapers, computers, and the list goes on.
Children smiled and pointed in amazement at the hand-painted fairy tale-style castle on the wall, while their parents mingled and enjoyed refreshments, while taking in all the sights. They saw everything from the most recent book releases on display, to beautiful glass cases holding the library’s most precious history.
“We (our community) needed this.” was the consensus that could be heard repeatedly throughout the room.
“It’s just an awesome thing for our whole community,” said Head Librarian, Renee McCluskey, “We needed change and growth. The library isn’t just for books, it’s an information center. We have ebooks, digital newspaper archives, and so much more.”
Among the people in attendance was Dr. Donald Mack, St.Jude Dream Home founder and son of Willie and Mary Mack, whose memory is held within the name of this branch and the hearts of the community.
The library resumes normal business hours today, allowing patrons to check out items and make use of the computers and other technologies the new facility has to offer.