Lady Bug & Thunders

SOM's Heather Bumbalough said, "Thunder Bug is a simple kitchen timer housed in a cute lady bug which measures about 4 inches in diameter. When staff hear thunder, they know not to go outside for curbside service for 30 minutes. They set Thunder Bug, who stays in the SOM workroom by the curbside phones, for 30 minutes each time there is thunder, so she can let staff know when it is safe for them and customers to be outside.  Our employees really get into it! Every time they hear thunder everyone yells, 'Thunder Bug!' to be sure people at the phones know to set the timer."

SOM Celebrates Fall

"South Mandarin Branch celebrated its Fall Festival, October 26, 2019, with 77 customers participating in a costume parade, crafts, pumpkin painting, and lots of candy was provided. 

Kids and caregivers enjoyed the celebration and I wore my Dr. Seuss hat, cat whiskers, and T-shirt, " said Isabel Moreno-Santiago, SOM's YS Librarian II.

 

Ralph Henderson: Job Well Done

"During the transition from the software, Evanced to Communico, Ralph Henderson made sure all the data migration was done the right way.  He kept communication with the IT department, tested and used the software to see that all events, reports, and schedules were correct. Ralph Henderson went far beyond his responsibilities and for that reason he was awarded a Job Well Done, July 9, 2019," said his nominator/supervisor, South Mandarin Branch YS Librarian II Isabel Santiago, pictured here with Ralph.  CONGRATULATIONS FROM ALL OF US, RALPH!

National Library Week At SOM

National Library Week was celebrated at South Mandarin Branch, April 13, 2019, with the theme, "Libraries Are for Everyone.”  Twelve children and their caregivers discussed the importance of traditions in families and in Latino culture. Additionally, they enjoyed the movie “Coco”, which is about Hispanic traditions, including celebrating the Day of the Dead and the children made skull masks for themselves. Thanks to Isabel Moreno-Santiago, SOM's YS Librarian II, for the input and picture. 

Drum Beats At SOM

In tune with JPL's Libraries Rock! Jazz It Up! theme, South Mandarin Library and 17 youngsters welcomed Mr. Cameron Moten--from a band called Noteworthy--and his drums, June 14, 2018.  They followed his lead in the jam session to learn basic drumming and  rhythm.  Then each child had an opportunity to conduct the group and decide how fast the drum beats would be and when to conclude in unison. What a fun way to learn to work together in harmony and experiment with leading while enjoying something new.  (Thanks to Library Associate Christie Rogers for the input and pic.) 

SOM Hosts Art Reception

SOM hosted an art reception for Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center student art May 10, 2017. Talented students are part of the Police Athletic League of Jacksonville TEAM UP after school program.

Pictured are (L/R): Youth Librarian Joanna Nigrelli, Lt. Lakesha Burton, teacher Robert Graver, student artist Leon, teacher Jo Mansell, and other JSO PAL officer representatives.  (Thanks t Joanann Nigrelli for the input.)

Star Wars At SOM & KR

Christie Rogers, Library Associate, SOM, reports, "On December 12^th, 102 people at the South Mandarin Library held a Star Wars Celebration that included light saber making and practice, Yoda ear craft, and a Jedi walk. Four characters were on hand to interact and have pictures taken with those who chose to participate. Star Wars library materials were available for check out and water and popcorn were furnished by the Friends of the South Mandarin Library. A fun time was had by all."

The picture below shows an earlier Star Wars program with participants at Mandarin Branch.  Alison Pulley said, "KR hosted a Crafternoon: Star Wars program on December 16 and had 104 attendees. Kids interacted with various Star Wars memorabilia from David Foster’s personal collection and had a blast making Yoda light sabers."

                            Getting Started

Now, how does that go together?