State library lobby trashed during party

Nevada State Library and Archives workers were outraged Monday morning by the mess they found in their lobby after a private party Sunday night.

Broken bottles, papers and soda cans were strewn across the floor, and the lobby reeked of stale beer. The floor was sticky with the dried liquid.

"This is a real shame," said Sara Jones, library administrator. "We've allowed people to use the lobby for weddings and parties since the building opened 10 years ago, but this is the first time things have gotten so clearly out of control."

No serious damage was incurred, and no charges have been filed in the case. But officials say they expect the person responsible for the baptismal celebration, Carson City resident Alejandro Lozano, to pay for the cleanup. Lozano could not be reached Monday for comment.

Carpets were stained, the halls were filled with paper trash, and a Christmas tree drooped on one side of the room. The library's book return was stuffed with garbage, and the restrooms were littered with paper towels.

Between 150 and 200 people were at the event, which Capitol Police closed down at 1 a.m. It was scheduled to end at 11 p.m.

Often used for weddings and parties, the brick-and-glass facility can be reserved on weekends for free, providing it is left clean and in good order. Liability insurance is the primary requisite, and many donate $100 to the library for use of the room.

There was no estimate of Sunday night's damages, but the area will have to be commercially cleaned, according to Jones.

She said the library's policy likely will be revised as a result. Anyone using the room in the future will probably have to pay for staff or private security.

"This a good opportunity for people, and we've had more good than bad experiences," said Bob Harmon, spokesman for the Nevada Department of Cultural Affairs. "This is troubling."