Feb. 29, the Mineral County Library hosted a Volunteers Appreciation Day in recognition of those whose selfless efforts make the library run smoothly.

“We would like to hold a Volunteers Appreciation Day every couple of years. This is meant to honor long-time volunteers who have made a significant difference in the library,” Library director Guna Chaberek said.

One special guest at the event received the Outstanding Volunteer Award, Superior resident, Leslie Heppe. Heppe is the president of the Friends of the Library group.

Her work in the library can ben seen in many different forms, she renovated and decorated the main lobby area where various groups gather.

Heppe’s artistic touch is appreciated on the walls she painted throughout the library, and the adorable handprints she added to the children’s room.

“We are a small library, with a small crew,” Branch Librarian Florence Evans said. “Our volunteers enable us to do big things, like the Christmas Bazaar, author events, and book sales. Volunteers bring manpower.”

Heppe also is the coordinator for the library’s Summer Reading Program which takes place at Eva Horning Park in Superior. She assists with the annual Christmas Bazaar and Pumpkin Decorating Party. Recently she was able to obtain a donor for the libraries Memorial Tree project.

It’s an understatement how crucial volunteering is to the library.

“Small communities can never completely fund their libraries, and we could never even begin to meet the needs of our patrons without volunteers,“ Chaberek said.

Heppe is the third volunteer to be honored with a plaque. This award was first given to long-time volunteers Doug and Dana Austin back in 2017.

The Austins have been dependable volunteers for over 10 years ferrying books between the Missoula Library and Superior’s branch. Their efforts allow the Mineral County Library in Superior to take part in the statewide partners library program.

“Leslie always shows up,” Evans said. “No matter what we decide to throw out there, we can depend on Leslie to be there, helping in any way needed. She is our rock, dependable, and just a great person.”

The luncheon was well attended with over 40 people whom celebrated with cake and enjoyed catering by Whipped Up Café. Small gifts were given to each participant, like cups with the Mineral County logo and “Thanks for Being a Friend of Mineral County Public Library.”

Upcoming events at the library include two books signings on April 16 and 23.

On June 6 the first annual flea market and book sale at the library will be held during the Old Schoolhouse Rock Car Show.