The Berendo library is named after Mrs. Norma B. Gibson. Her name adorns the outside of the library in honor of all her hard work and dedication to the family of Berendo Middle School. In 1959, Mrs. Norma B. Gibson became Principal of Berendo. By this time Berendo had begun to grow in population and problems. She was destined to serve as head of the school for eleven years. It was her misfortune and Berendo's good fortune that she ran the school during one of our nation's most disruptive periods. The country and Los Angeles in particular was experiencing a rise in crime, a war that divided the nation, gang activity, economical and political turmoil and a break down in established patterns in all schools. Demonstrations, gang warfare and demographic changes in our cities caused problems were prepared for. Gibson gained a reputation as a tough, no nonsense administrator. Even the gangs respected her as Berendo began to grow in numbers of students dramatically. A Foreign Adjustment program was initiated and grew rapidly. A student newspaper called the Berendo Banner was published through the Print Shop and won national acclaim. Creative Writing, Graphic Art for girls, Drama and Advanced Foods classes were added to the curriculum. Dance Band, Science Club, Future Homemakers of America, Typing Service and many other clubs and organizations kept the students busy.

But the most dramatic events to occur during Mrs. Gibson's tenure were the 50th Anniversary Celebration and Berendo assuming the Middle Ages as its central theme. The 1961 celebration of 50 years of Berendo History far exceeded expectations. Over 1500 former “Berendoites” attended. Famous movie stars and musicians performed and a vault was installed in the Main Hall outside of the office filled with pictures and memorabilia to be sealed until 1986 when the 75th Anniversary would be celebrated.

Students, parents, teachers, administrators and the clerical staff voted for the Middle Ages to be Berendo's central theme. All clubs, organizations and even some of Berendo's buildings were renamed to fit the new theme. Students would henceforth be dubbed the Crusaders. The theme caught on and has flourished. The Crusader Handbook was distributed to all new students so that they could assimilate to Berendo. Parliament (Student Council), Golden Torch (Honor Society), Sentinels (Hall Guards), Lords and Ladies (Service Groups) and Round Table (Senior Class Representatives) were just a few of the organizations that recognized members with sashes students wore during the school day. Many of these names still remain to this day. The school enjoyed eleven wonderful years under Ms. Gibson's leadership. The school library, which she had personally donated hundreds of books, was named in her honor.

Today, the Head Librarian is Ms. Diamond. Students can ask Ms. Diamond about the latest books that are available and check the computer for books of interest as well. Ms. Diamond has provided the following information about the library’s hours of operation and check-out procedures.