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Airmen bring suggested improvements to the LRC

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michael Voss
  • 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
MANAS AIR BASE, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC --  Servicemembers who deploy to Manas can look forward to the services provided at the Manas Learning Resource Center.

Although not all of the staff responsible for recent upgrades to the Manas Learning Resource Center are still deployed having returned to their home stations, their efforts put together vast improvements to the 1,640 square foot center based on customer suggestions and feedback.

Senior Airman Alison Osborn and Tech. Sgt. Shawna Ray, both deployed to the 376th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron, here started the improvements over four months ago.

After receiving feedback from customer comment cards about the appearance of the LRC, the staff responded; placing a 332 facility work-order request to install new carpet and furniture.

"Many transients head to the LRC to call home, find a quiet place to read and relax," said Airman Osborn. "We had a few customer comments when I first got here complaining about the appearance of the LRC."

Not taking no for an answer they worked directly with the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing's Finance and Contracting offices as well as Civil Engineers to purchase 350 dollars worth of paint and supplies.

After corralling all the necessary supplies, the entire EFSS staff chipped in to make the improvements. Shutting down the LRC Aug. 30 and worked day and night to move out the old desks and furniture along with the hundreds of books and videos, within eight days they had the entire place renovated, including freshly painted walls and new carpeting.

"We did not just make improvements," said 376th EFSS technician Staff Sgt. Denise Pinaula. "I think it showed we actually cared about what people had to say. We took the feedback we received and we made a difference."

Reopening six days prior to the scheduled the Learning Resource Center staff also reorganized existing furniture to make room for incoming books, DVDs, and CDs available for transiting servicemembers.

"The LRC is one of the first stops for many here at Manas AB for a variety of reasons," said Airman Osborn. "In June alone we had more than 2,900 customers. It really needed improvements and we worked hard to get it done. I know it made a difference."

Judging from the response since the reopening of the Learning Resource Center, it appears she is right.