Airmen great help at used book sale

When Melissa Haraughty, director of the library at Cannon Air Force Base, contacted our Friends of the Portales Public Library group to ask if she might bring airman volunteers to help us with our annual used book sale, I fear we frightened her as we lunged to accept the offer.

How wonderful it was to pull up to the library last week with a pickup load of boxed books and find Melissa waiting with a dozen airmen — young men and women who were not only delightful to work with, but who were also strong, quick, strong, enthusiastic and (did I mention?) strong.

In an hour and a half, they did two days-worth of furniture moving, table juggling and book organizing for us.

Then — icing on the cake — Melissa returned at quitting time Saturday with 14 airmen. Within a record-shattering 25 minutes, the remaining books were boxed and stacked away, the furniture was replaced to pre-sale appearances, and we were done.

Cannon has far more important missions than helping at used book sales, but Melissa reminded me that the airmen stationed here are always looking for opportunities to be part of the communities where they live.

You won’t find better help.

Betty Williamson loves books, but appreciates help lifting them. You may reach her at:

[email protected]