When Mandy Brown first ventured into the main Pueblo Library branch, it was because she wanted to escape the heat in the air-conditioned building. But over time, the staff got to know Brown. They encouraged her to take a computer class -- even though she was so intimidated by technology at first, she couldn't even stand next to a computer. A librarian suggested places she could apply for work, and helped her enroll in the nursing program at Pueblo Community College.
"They believed in me, and so it made me start believing in me," Brown said.
It was Pueblo Library's work with Brown and other community members that scored the library system this year's National Medal for Museum and Library Services. Brown is traveling to Washington, D.C. to help accept the award.
