![John Neibarger](https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/styles/bio_thumbnail_image/public/assets/images/GN-hm-2008-neibarger.jpg?itok=PwOyomPL)
In 1996, Neibarger gathered a group of residents who shared his vision of building a public library for their small town of 3,500 residents. Neibarger raised $1.8 million for the project, served as volunteer general contractor, and often pounded a hammer himself to complete construction. The opening of the 6,800-square-foot library in 2006 meant that local children have a safe and intellectually stimulating gathering place offering educational programs, book clubs, and computer workstations.