Brian Laughton has big plans for the Newport Library and Community Center, and assembling a strong collection and securing furniture are among the first tasks on his to-do list.
The city hired the 38-year Air Force and Marine Corps veteran to get the new library up and running. Newport took over responsibility for the library after Washington County closed the branch Dec. 30.
"My fourth-grade teacher would roll over in her grave if she knew that I was running a library," Laughton joked. "I am taking this serious."
His first initiative is a book donation day on Saturday. Residents can drop off books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and games from 2 to 6 p.m.
"A lot of people have things that they don't want to throw out, but would love to find a good home for it," Laughton said. "I take contributions here."
He's had some already. Washington County Library sent over four boxes of books, and the Stone Soup thrift shop helped fill the shelves with scores of novels, science fiction and Harlequin romances. Stone Soup also donated a handful of games and puzzles.
In its first two weeks, 22 people have used the library at 405 7th Av. S. They stopped by to use its three computers, read its newspapers, pick up tax forms and even mail a letter.
In the near future, Laughton hopes to add three more computers, hang a big-screen TV and add a Wii entertainment system. He also wants to hold children's programs and possibly put up theme displays to honor veterans or mark holidays.
