To Touch Or Not To Touch

The Children’s Department at the Mandarin Branch Library hosted Michelle (R, far left) with the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for the Stories for Young Children program, March 27.  A crowd of 89 plus kids, parents, and caregivers were excited to see--and sometimes touch-- snakes, opossums, lizards and other exotic creatures.  Big thanks to Children’s Library Associate Alison Pulley (R, far R), PT Library Associate Frances Wickes and volunteer Brianna Moore (R, middle), who coordinated the event at the branch.  (Thanks to KR Manager Lynne Baldwin for this blurb.)

CAL's ESL Instructor Now In South Korea

For nearly  a year, Lane Wright volunteered as an ESL instructor with the Center for Adult Learning (CAL). When a vacancy opened in the department, Lane began working as a part-time instructor at the Main Library.  He taught higher level classes as well as an introductory level group of women who spoke very little English. Lane put together fun, creative lessons that helped women from many different countries begin to understand and express themselves in English. In February, Lane followed his passion and accepted a full-time position in South Korea teaching English to second and third graders.  Lane is third from the left sitting among fellow teachers and new friends.

Thanks to CAL's Literacy Program Manager, Sharon Jaskula, for this article.

Lesislative Day At The Capitol

Keeping JPL’s needs in the forefront of our legislators’ budget plans is a top priority for the Library Board and Director Gubbin and the Administrative team, supported by JPL’s various Friends groups.  A major effort in this vein is an annual trip to Tallahassee when they visit our state senators and representatives.  On March 25, Board Chair Dr. Brenda Simmons-Hutchins, Director Barbara Gubbin, Deputy Director Carolyn Williams, Roxanne Henkle, Willowbranch "Friends", and Daniel Kibler, Murray Hill "Friends", again met with state legislators.  Above are pictured L/R State Senator Audrey Gibson, Board Chair Dr. Simmons-Hutchins, Director Gubbin, and a University of Central Florida student, Peter Cannon, who is working on his MLS. 

The whole team met with Senator Audrey Gibson, Representatives Reggie Fullwood, Daniel Davis, and Janet Adkins.  Director Gubbin spoke briefly with Senator Aaron Bean, Representatives Lake Ray and Dr. Ronald Renuart.  Representative Mia Jones was out sick but JPL’s needs were discussed with her District Secretary, Milan Thompson.

Below are pictured L/R Deputy Director Williams, Murray Hill Friends member, Daniel Kibler, Willowbranch Friends member Roxanne Henkle, and State Representative Daniel Davis.



Director Gubbin wants to thank our "Friends", Roxanne Henkle and Daniel Kibler, for making the trip to Tallahassee--and all the "Friends" group members, who could not go to Tallahassee but work tirelessly throughout the year to support the Jacksonville Public Library.

NS Blossoms w/Activites For Spring

Pat Morrison, Urban Libraries Supervisor, proudly recaps some of NS' activities:
 
Customers and staff at Brentwood library welcomed spring with open arms and loads of activities.  Young customers were treated to a week of food, fun and games during Spring Break.  The activities began with Game Day where children and teens played board games and Bingo.  The winners received prizes and all attendees received hot dogs, chips, drinks and popcorn.  Game Day was sponsored by a generous donation from the Friends of Brentwood Library.

Above, Betty Williams gives encouragement at the Connect Four table.  Teen volunteer DeJohn officiated at the table and aptly mediated disputes and kept the peace.

Chanika Kimbrough (left) was Bingo caller extraordinaire and Gloria Armstrong (below) was Mrs. Popcorn Popper.

 
Children and teens created bracelets at Art Club.  Attendance at the event was predominantly teen boys who showcased their skills by making double, triple and quadruple strand bracelets. 

Movie Time was a “Toons” marathon showcasing classic cartoons like the Flintstones, Tom and Jerry and the Chip 'n' Dales.  No time for a feature?  Just drop in for a cartoon or two.

 

Gardening and Spring flowers was the theme at Story Time.  Story time regulars Sophia and Michaela (pictured R, below) show off their gardening skills with the pots and seeds Peggy Crawford provided.

 




 


 

 

 The week of activities ended with the “A Good Yarn” crochet and book club beginning a new project.  Below, Sharon Whitt gives instructions to the group.  Aquilla Stewart coordinates this activity – scheduling, recruiting and contacting participants, and assisting Sharon.

 

 

By the end of the week 85 children and teens attended programs at Brentwood Library.  Kudos to the staff!

184 Attend 2 KR Programs

Lynne Baldwin, Mandarin Branch Manager, gives a shout out for her employees, "I want to brag about the Children’s Department at the Mandarin Branch Library:  129 kids, parents and caregivers showed up for the spring break movie presentation of Frozen, March 21, and 55 kids created collages with Alison Pulley at Spring Break Art Club, March 18.  WOW!" 

Lynne cheers Fran Sweeney (right), who volunteered to set up refreshments for the movie.  Volunteers like Ms. Sweeney are the "whipped cream and the cherry on top" all across the library system and we could not have the successes JPL enjoys without our volunteers.

Fun At Highlands Branch

Beverly Mason reports that Highlands Branch held two programs recently, "On March 18, 17 teens participated in Teen Gaming, played Wii and Xbox games and Clue. On March 20, we showed Thor the Dark World; 11 attended.  Refreshments were served at both programs.  

 

 

Worth Repeating

Donna Carroll, Regency Square Branch Manager recognizes a good deed when she sees one, "We had a customer with an $18 fine that he could not pay.  Another customer overheard this and without hesitation paid the fine.  He said while he doesn’t have much, he believes in helping others when he can."

At WBK, Learning Is Fun

Westbrook Branch's spring break balloon twisting program, March 21, was double decked with fun and a science lesson for 25 kids.   What child doesn't like creating things with balloons--and they learned about helium and how balloons are made.  Big kids at heart, Kimberly McTeer and Susan Williamson, also joined in the fun.

SOM's Kids Programs Keep 'Em Coming In

South Mandarin Library's Lego Club, April 12, had 33 kids showing off their creativity. Children's Library Associate Bryan Thomas reports, "Lego Club is held the first early release Wednesday of each month at 3:30 pm. to celebrate early out. Each month has a new theme. All kids can come and use their imagination to create anything from a spaceship to an entire city. Legos are provided. This program is for grades K-6th grade.

"A St. Patrick’s Day Celebration (right), March 15, included Irish storytellers and 38 people sang Irish folk songs, made colorful shamrock window art and had face-painting.

"Origami Fun, March 19, kept 31 kids happy as they celebrated spring break.  Kids made origami star sun catchers and an origami star book."

SOM's Librarian, Margo Crafton, taught the Origami class.

What's not to like about being creative!

 

Kudos From Customers

Beaches Branch: Michelle (Petrin) in Reference was so friendly, helpful and went over & above!

Main – Special Collections:  I feel compelled to tell you about my most recent experience using the COJ's Public Library. I was doing...research for a retired college Professor... The Professor has pinned several books including "World's Finest Beach." That book renders a history of the development of Jacksonville Beaches. I called your library and spoke with Kathleen Krizek. She was enthusiastic, cheerful, attentive to my needs and most knowledgeable. The Professor was searching for information on The Homestead Restaurant. Ms. Krizek immediately directed me to a book titled "The Lost Restaurants of Jacksonville." The following day, I visited your library and met Ms. Krizek. Once again she provided me with excellence in customer service. She assisted me in locating the book and directed me to the second floor where I could continue the research in the old newspapers that are on film...

Mandarin Branch: I would like to commend the entire staff of the Mandarin Regional Library and, in particular, the children's librarian, David (Foster).  Mr. David knows my son and my family, and yesterday we were at the library when ...my 5 year old...disappeared. I ...could not find him and immediately went over to Mr. David to let him know I was having trouble finding my child. He sprang into action, and immediately had the entire staff searching for my son. ...(He) had wandered out to the parking lot on his own, and we were very fortunate that another mom brought him back inside. When a child goes missing, every second counts, and the library staff made every effort to make sure that every second counted. I really, really appreciate their effort and caring in helping me in a moment of panic. I can see that they take the entirety of their job very seriously, and they have always provided us with the best service librarians could offer. I just wanted to thank them for everything.

Webb Wesconnett Branch:  ...I worked at the Charles Webb library…and saw first-hand how difficult a job the librarians have every day. They are the front line, and every staff member (Sharon Kirkes, Stephanie Miller, Jeff Geiger, Sara Radovic, Christie Rogers, Jessica Serrano, Stephanie Harley, Vickie Leonard, Dana Curry, Ronald Jones, and Patricia Turner) I met was calm, professional, and kept a positive attitude during a trying time. I commend the library staff for meeting the needs of the citizens of the City of Jacksonville each and every day. We are behind the curtain and do not always realize the challenge of working directly with the public.

Willowbranch:  Micah (Mills) was so very patient and kind when showing me some basic computer functions, helping me login to email and other sites.  He calmly explained how to do it, instead of doing it for me, which I appreciated.  He never made me feel stupid for not already knowing how to do these things.  I really appreciated his assistance.

UPK's Open Mic Night & Teen Fashion Show

 
Eighty two customers enjoyed a variety of talents at University Park Branch's annual Spring Break Extravaganza, 6 pm - 8 pm, March 18.  Rosalin Smalls was Mistress of Ceremony for 13 young people, ages 7 - 16, who performed and participated in the Teen Fashion Show.  Alius Dance School students demonstrated modern dance and ballet. Some sang and there were poetry readings and a creative pencil table performance.

The program was closed with a surprise expression of appreciation to Mina Figuerrez for her tireless work with the teens.  Light refreshments, including Roz’s sumptuous red velvet cake, topped off the evening.  Everyone expressed their delight and anticipation for next year's event. 

Happy Birthday, Lynne!

The Mandarin Branch employees surprised Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin with a card and beautiful flowers for her birthday. We add our best wishes, too! 

Staff Profile - April 2014: Sharon Kirkes

Webb Wesconnett's Branch Manager is a leader in pushing for staff education in the basics of technological issues so customers can be better served and JPL as a whole can use e-specialists' time in the most efficient way.  How does she do that and manage CW effectively?  Glad you asked.

Q: You are credited with leading your entire reference staff to do basic troubleshooting with technical issues for customers before offering people an appointment with the e-library specialist.  How did you accomplish this? 

A: More than anything else, probably by example. Many of the questions and issues that come up can be dealt with on the spot—we try to save our E-Library Specialist for the more challenging or time-intensive issues. I think the customers appreciate our efforts, and it keeps us aware of their needs and issues. Most of my employees are more technologically adept than I am anyway, so it wasn’t too much of a stretch.

Q: Do you now have training for other staff in some areas of new technology, and if so, please share your plans and results with that.

A: We try to take advantage of training opportunities offered by SST and the Training Office, but scheduling for these is difficult. Recently our Reference staff participated in an internal, mini-seminar on Google Power Searching. We are looking forward to the E-Services Get-to-Yes training, and at least two of us will attend a session on SharePoint.

Q: Are the majority of Webb Wesconnett Branch customers transitioning to new technologies and what are their main issues with technology?

A: Many of our customers, probably more so than at other locations, are very much on the wrong side of the Digital Divide. Their main issues tend to be really basic—struggling with setting up email accounts, producing simple documents, finding appropriate websites and filling out applications for work or assistance.

Q: You also support JPL’s efforts to provide computer classes in Spanish, both at CW and other libraries.  How do you plan and execute that?

 

A: This is primarily a scheduling function on my part. I try to ensure that Webb has adequate coverage for Thursday evenings and Friday mornings when the classes are here, and that Jessica is available to participate, as needed, in classes or meetings that may be held at other locations in the system.

Q: What is something most of us would not know about you that you would like to share with us?

A: I enjoy watching, and reading about  silent films—particularly those of Lillian Gish and D.W. Griffiith.

Northwest Has It

Just in case customers are zooming to computers or using a meeting room and didn't stop for a book, Northwest's Gloria Buenavista gives them inviting invitations as seen in these two "ads", and Shinita Miles, part time Library Associate, made a must see/read table display of tempting books.

GB's Whitt Gets Innovator Award

Sharon Whitt, Library Associate at Graham Branch, was presented an Innovator Award certificate and button, March 14, 2014, by her Branch Manager, Jackie Spiritas.  Sharon is credited with creating Fitness Fridays at GB during February and March.  An earlier blurb appears on this blog about these classes.

Author Daniel Schafer Is Big Draw At UPK

Award-winning author and historian Daniel Schafer spoke about his newest book, Zephaniah Kingsley Jr. and the Atlantic World: Slave Trader, Plantation Owner, Emancipator, at the February 18th meeting of Old Arlington, Inc., a non-profit community group, held at the University Park Branch. Branch Manager Theresa Rooney coordinated with Old Arlington members on pre-event publicity and the event attracted 78 people.  Ms. Rooney said, “I had heard Dr. Schafer speak before so I knew we could bring in a good crowd with some coordinated effort, particularly word-of-mouth advertising. Old Arlington President Steve Matchett made the poster and flyer we used. Kathy Lussier and Olga Bayer were particularly helpful in helping me to get an item about the event posted in the JPL e-newsletter and in putting out a press release on Friday before the event. I had shared with the Old Arlington members that my vision was to fill the room and amazingly, we did, although even I was surprised by the huge turn-out. I had 83 chairs in the Community Room, but in the last few minutes before the event began, my staff and I started rolling in 10 chairs from the Computer Classroom just to make sure we had enough seating. Dr. Schafer’s talk was fascinating and the Arlington Women’s Club supplied awesome refreshments. The leftover refreshments – particularly the best lemon bars I’ve ever tasted – were much appreciated by my staff.”

KR's Robert Moseley Finds A Better Way

Robert Moseley, KR Library Assistant, received his Innovator Award on Saturday, March 15, 2014, for creating instructions on how to format the audit report.  Robert used Stacey Van Hoy as a guinea pig to work out any kinks before finalizing the instructions and Mandarin Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin reports Robert's instructions have made formatting the Workflows audit much easier to understand and complete.  Go, Robert!

Little Change = Big Results & Smiles At UPK

Library Clerks Roz Smalls and Linda Griffin Foresto recently took the initiative to complete a small project at University Park Branch that pays big dividends for staff assigned to drops. UPK's two drive-up drop chutes were not previously labeled, one for media and one for books. Now they are and it is much easier to sort materials. Nice job, Linda and Roz!

UPK Hosts CM Crescimbeni

Council Member John Crescimbeni is pictured with Michelle Myers, Community Education Specialist at the Jacksonville Zoo & Community Gardens, and Mary Calcagni, Children’s Librarian at UPK.  CM and Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library Vice-President Crescimbeni was rewarded for his tireless and effective efforts on behalf of JPL by an invitation to Zoo Story Time at University Park Branch Library, March 13. The program was conducted by Ms. Myers and CM Crescimbeni was amazed that 83 children and parents turned out to visit with a rainbow boa snake, a rabbit, a baby alligator, a bearded dragon lizard and a baby possum. After the event, Branch Manager Theresa Rooney gave CM Crescimbeni a tour of the branch and building, including the Computer Classroom, which fortuitously had a computer class being conducted by e-Specialist Randy Mapanoo, the BOB area and SST offices where he met some of the staff who work behind the scenes.

 

Pictured right in her pink jacket is Ms. Rooney's granddaughter, Rivers Matchett, who was fascinated by the array of wild life at Zoo Story Time; to her right is her mother, Emily Matchett.

Main Library Gets Much Needed Overhaul

As you may have heard on local news, the City is in litigation with the original contractor for the new Main Library.  The law suit is for approximately $1.4 million in damages to the Main Library due to construction shortfalls when Main was constructed, 2003-2005. 

In the fall of 2013, City Of Jacksonville Public Works (COJ/PW) began an invasive assessment to determine the cause and pin-point the source of damages within the Main Library believed to be due to faulty construction.  During this assessment, it was found that there was delamination of stucco (separation of exterior stucco from the wall of the building), H20 intrusion linked to installation shortfalls of exterior windows and skylights, along with H2O intrusion identified within the courtyard.   

Long story short, ACON Construction was contracted by COJ/PW to conduct this activity on/about October 2013.  Work is still in process to rectify the damages and it is anticipated to be completed by October 2015. 

Kudos to employees who have been patient with the necessary noise and open areas on cold days while windows were removed and reinstalled. 

Thanks to CR&M’s Marsha Blasco for the photo of the installation of new windows at the Main Library.

News From San Marco Branch

Pam Thompson, SS's Branch Manager, shares their latest good news:

·       2/14/2014 – A schoolage program featuring homemade playdough was the most well received program for the age group so far this year. Thirteen middle schoolers spent an hour crafting various food items, castles, and even a Gandalf figurine. Several of the youth have personally requested another round.

 ·       2/19/2014 –A guest reader was very well received during a farm themed Stories for Young Children. Harvard Blake McCorvey (Mr. Blake to the kids), a theater major from FSCJ, read “Moo!” by David LaRochelle. The laughter generated could be heard throughout the library.

The Library Is The Place To Bee

Spring is slowly but surely making its approach and Graham Branch's Chanika Kimbrough knew just how to celebrate it.  For the months of March, April, and May, Chanika decided to have the theme, The Library Is the Place to Bee, and made a display board with the title in spring colors. Then she involved GB youth by asking them to jot down reasons why they frequent the library. The blurbs are being used to decorate the colorful board in the form of bees.  It is a great feeling to know that the library is greatly appreciated by community youth.  Here are some of the responses Chanika was given:

  

·        “To help me stay focused”
·        “To see kind workers”
·        “Youth Programs”
·        “I like to read”
·        “To socialize/hang with my friends”
·        “For crafts”
·        “Always something to do”
 

Dallas Graham Branch Manager, Jackie Spiritas, said, "Chanika is always finding new ways to engage the youth at Graham and bring out the best in them. She holds them all to a high standard and  the branch is a better place to bring young people together with her on staff."

As Far As U Could See: Pots Of Gold At The End Of Each Rainbow

Janice Best , a part-time Library Associate at Bradham Brooks Northwest held a St. Patrick’s Day story time, March 11. It was attended by 57 kids. As you see, there really is a pot of gold at the end of your rainbow--even if you have to paint it.

Thanks to Gloria Buenavista for letting us know.

Congrats to KR Innoator Award Winners

Sara Peretzman and Jessica Jones with their Innovator Award certificates and buttons received from Lynne Baldwin, Mandarin Branch Manager,  Saturday, March 8, 2014.  

Special Women's History Month Display At Murray Hill

Chiquita Powell, Children's Librarian at Murray Hill Branch, lauds their  History Fair project currently displayed in the children’s section, "Our part-timer, Amy Davis, has a talented 6^thgrade daughter, 11 year old Hannah, who did this board for her History Fair project.  The title is 'Women in World War 1: Paving the Way to Equality.'  This display comes at a perfect time as March is Women’s History Month."

 

Don't you know that Mom is proud!

18 Families at Mandarin's Primetime!

Mandarin Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin is pleased with KR's Primetime success, "Eighteen Mandarin area families have been participating in Primetime, the six week family reading program which began, February 26.   Children ages 6-10 and their parents and guardians have enjoyed sharing a healthy meal,  listening to storytellers and reading together.  The program wraps up, April 9, with a visit from CM Matt Schellenberg.  Congratulations to Laura , Emily and Pam for their outstanding work on this program.

"Library Associate Alison Pulley is pictured sharing story time with the younger siblings of Primetime participants at the Mandarin Branch Library." 

UPK: Calling All Aspiring Young Artists!

Calling all ages 10 - 18:  Poets, Singers, Dancers, Musicians, Rappers (clean), Storytellers, Jugglers, and Fashionistas!  They all are invited to come share their work or just come and listen.  Where and What:
 
University Park Branch, 3435 University Boulevard North (a few blocks north of JU, on the right) for a Spring Break Extravaganza, “Open Mic Night and Teen Fashion Show”, 6:00 – 8:00pm., Tuesday, March 18, 2014.

 
Rosalin Smalls will again MC the event and staff will be taking and sharing pictures with us on the blog after.

Lynne Baldwin Gets Well Deserved Studdy Buddy

The Jackson de Ville “Study Buddy” was given to Mandarin Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin by South Mandarin Librarian Margo Crafton for always going "above and beyond" in external and internal customer service and for her ever present “I care” attitude.

KR Innovators Receive Awards

Mandarin Branch Library Associate Don Carpenter, left, and Children's Library Assistant David Foster each received an Innovator Award and button, March 7, from KR Manager Lynne Baldwin. 

 

David and Don were recognized for their innovative and creative youth services programming.

KR Goes Green Early For St. Patty's Day

Library Clerk Eric Cusaac wishes customers a Happy St. Patrick’s Day as the Mandarin Branch Library celebrates the heritage of Ireland with an abundance of four-leaf clover cutouts and balloons and informative displays.

 

It's good to see green again!

NW Celebrates Black History Month

Bradham Brooks Northwest Branch staff created their own colorful Black History Hall of Fame (left)  and a display in the Children's Department.

 

The Friends of Bradham Brooks Branch Library held a Brotherhood Month program entitled: Sharing Cultural Expressions, February 19; 47 participants and guests enjoyed sharing dance, poetry, songs, stories and costumes.

Shevonica Howell, a local author (right) shared an excerpt from her book: Girl, they aint ready! Life can be all you want it to be; trust me! Gloria Buenavista said, "NW has a copy of her book and every time she comes in to the branch, the book is always checked out."

 

Kathy Cooley, another local author, read from one of her books; she has authored two, Married to the Confused, Selfish and Heartless Guy and The Love That Seeped From My Heart. 

Thanks to Gloria Buenavista for this article.