Staff Profile - December 2016

Pablo Creek Manager Jackie Spiritas won the Challenge the Process Award and, subsequently, the Employee of the 4^th Quarter (July-September 2016).  Why?  Read on:

Q:  PCR is now a popular gathering place for not only customers but also businesses, City departments, and other organizations—particularly once a month.  What do you attribute this to?

A: Pablo Creek has a very large inviting space and can accommodate the needs of a wide variety of groups. We have enjoyed hosting programs for our customers that demonstrate our willingness to adapt. For instance, this past month we had a Goodwill Fashion Show in the middle of the library. This is something that we normally would have tucked in a meeting room. We don’t see our walls as barriers and this attitude toward programming creates more opportunity to help bring people and groups together. I am always looking for community groups and organizations that share similar goals; then the ideas and possibilities gain momentum more quickly and have more of a lasting impact. I have found that to be a very productive way to increase our visibility and create new and deeper partnerships and collaborations.

    

Q:  When and how did Turn It UP begin? 

A:  The idea originally was introduced by Region Manager Sara Roberts who continues to bring a unique perspective to the programming table. She recognizes the niche for innovative programming like Turn it Up and has witnessed the success of such programs in other library systems. She coached Greg Pierce and me through the process in stages and we began learning how to adapt it to our community. We held our first Turn It Up in April 2016 and we began by focusing on adult programs and demonstrations, hoping that would attract and inspire our customers. What we discovered in the process was that Pablo Creek is a family-centric library. Most adults are either accompanied by children or are using Pablo Creek in different ways than by attending programs. We turned our attention to the Children’s department and used that information to bring in programs that focused on families and children. Once we had a captive audience of adults, we learned how to promote our adult services during those moments where the children’s program transitions in to the adult area. For instance, while the children are playing games like Library Bowling or Putt Putt in the Stacks, staff can demonstrate Tumblebooks to the parents. We have found a way to tie in an online database demonstration to each program. For November, the theme was Gratitude so we focused on Transparent Language Online – how to say Thank You in different languages. Not to leave out the adults that are working on computers during Turn It Up – they get to enjoy live music, food demonstrations in the lobby, and are drawn to the activity generated by the other programs.

Q:  How did you get staff on board with this new challenge? 

A:  Honestly, the staff has been so invested in the success of Pablo Creek programming that all we have to do is describe what we are trying to accomplish and ask for help. We have a committee whose members rotate which allows everyone the chance to contribute. Staff from every department, including our volunteers and part-time staff, is given a job to do.  We meet every week to discuss and inspire each other. Every person’s idea is considered and no one is in it alone. We carve out time on the schedule to pair people up to discuss and create their ideas, whether it’s a display or just to figure out the best way to move people. I couldn’t be prouder to work alongside people who understand what we are trying to do for the community and then help to do it. I give the staff a wide berth to explain their ideas, create them, and own the success when they bring it all to life.

 Q:  How many turn out for Turn It UP now and what have been the benefits to all concerned? 

A:  We have averaged around 150 with some coming for just the Children’s program and realizing we also have live music, crafts and games. Others who are on the computer or just passing through to get a book wind up getting a free cupcake and enjoying a four-piece woodwind quartet performing by the Ask Here desk. The impact of the programming is more than the number – it gives people a story to tell when they are advocating for the library. The benefits are threefold – the staff gets to be a part of something bigger than their individual duties or responsibilities. This is a quality of life issue that I feel improves staff morale and is an incentive to continue doing excellent work for the library system. The outside groups that participate have an opportunity for extra exposure and to push the message they want out to a captive audience with no sales pressure. The library gets to live its own mission by bringing people, ideas, and information together.

Q: Tell us something about yourself most of us would not know. 

A:  I am an enigma. There is stuff even I don’t know about myself. How about this? If you see me wearing tiger eye – ask me anything. I am at my most open and confident. It’s my secret weapon. Oops – not any more!

Staff Profile - November 2016

Mandarin Branch Manager Mark Hohnadel is one who goes much more than the "extra mile" for customers, as you have read recently on this blog, should you not know him personally. Trying to get him to elaborate on his accomplishments at JPL was a task--he just isn't a self-promoter. 

Q:  You have been with JPL a long time; could you give us an overview of your professional progress?

A:  I started with JPL in 1999 at Northwest Library which is now known as the Bradham Brooks Library.  Since then I have had the great pleasure of working in many different locations where I have met some wonderful people.  My time at NW was short lived as I moved to the newly renovated Regency Library in the fall of 1999 where I first met Carolyn Williams (former deputy director) who was then AR's manager.  While at Regency I had the opportunity to take a test and was promoted to the position of what was called Librarian Senior at the time and I moved to the Beaches Library in 2001.  This was a great experience and I was even the acting manager for a while when Susan Shami, the manager, was out on maternity leave.  My next stop took me to Southeast Library where I stayed for several years.  This was fun because I was there before the branch was renovated and I was one of a few who remained there working while the branch was closed for expansion and renovations.  Shortly after this, I was transferred to Murray Hill as manager.  Next came Main where I worked in the Periodicals department under Julie McNeil, I also had the chance to work in the Popular Department as well.   I was then asked by Carolyn Williams (who was promoted to deputy director) to return to Southeast as manager, which was something I really enjoyed.  In 2015 I was relocated to Mandarin where I am currently the manager. 

Q:  As KR manager, what has been your greatest challenge?

A:  One of the biggest challenges for me now is keeping up with all the demands of being a manager.  You have to accept change and keep going; so I just take it one day at a time and give it 100%.

Q: What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?

A:  My great accomplishment is being able to work with so many great people while also helping people at the same time. I am very proud of the work I have done in my years working here.

Q:  What changes have been made at KR that have produced a positive effect for customers and/or staff?

A:  I have been able to make Mandarin Library a very nice, attractive, pleasant place for all to enjoy.

Q:  What is your favorite pastime?

A:  When I am not working I enjoy travelling to different places.  I especially enjoy art museums and historical sites.  One item on my bucket list is to visit every state at least once.  One highlight was visiting Wyoming this year.  I am well on my way but still have quite a few adventures to look forward to.

Staff Profile - October 2016

Pablo Creek Region Manager Sara Roberts came to JPL from Ventura, CA, where she served as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System. She and her husband, Shane, moved to Jacksonville the latter part of 2015 and she started with JPL, January 4, 2016.  In her brief tenure, she has proven to be an asset working under the leadership of her immediate supervisor, Assistant Director for Public Services, Julie McNeil.

Q:  What drew your interest to a career in library management?

A:  Every summer I took part in the Summer Reading Program at my local library. My parents did not go to college, nor did they care too much about grades or education. They did know that I loved to read. My mom took me to the library and let me choose whatever I wanted. I very clearly remember the SRP at my local branch because I would win a free personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut after I read so many books. Coming from my background, this was like winning the lottery. Not only was I reading, but I was providing for my family. That may sound odd for a small child, but it happens. I loved that little building more than anything else. I found myself and my place in the public library.

When I began my career, I sought out opportunities to effect change. That’s how I ended up in library management. Not because it’s so much fun, or super rewarding. It’s because I know that what I do helps other children experience the magic I felt in the library. Every decision I make should reflect the core values of the library, that’s why I manage.

Q:  You could probably apply some of the management principles and experience from your tenure as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System to your present position with JPL.  Please tell us about that.

A:  The great thing about being second in charge is that you finally see behind the curtain. The terrible thing is that you finally see behind the curtain. It’s very easy to sit in a branch and complain about the people setting priorities. But once you have to make those decisions you start to see how all of the gears fit together, and you are responsible for making it work with little to no resources. I learned many things in that position, but the size and impact of JPL is much greater!

Q:  What other experience and community service have you had that has been indispensable to the professional you are today?

A:  Well, my first master’s degree is in teaching. I spent a few years in the classroom and that was extremely helpful in shaping who I am today. Mostly, my experience as a Librarian moving through each position up the crazy jungle gym/career ladder has been my guide.

Also, I make it a point to not only study library science, but management principles as well. I am always on the lookout for more information and better ways of doing things. It’s a fun challenge, and I appreciate learning from others.

Q:  You have had a successful career for a young professional; what would be your advice to other young professionals on their career path?

A:  It isn’t easy! You have to push yourself to be better, and push your people to be better. We’re lucky because our goal is to change the world, not make someone more money. Sometimes you have to recommit yourself to that goal.

Q: What is the most rewarding experience—professionally or personally—you have had?

A:  What a question! I would have to say the day I graduated from college. It was rough going for a while but I have never felt more proud than the day I got my BA and walked across the stage. Nothing works unless you do, and I put in the work!

Staff Profile - September 2016

Main Manager Lynne Baldwin recognized Katie Guarino's ability to work well with staff--from the supply clerk to Main/Urban Region Manager Michael Sullivan-- to research, listen and communicate well and produce the Young Adult Job Fair at the Main Library, June 14. Katie garnered the expertise, talents, and cooperation of staff successfully.  The job fair had 1070 teens and 29 vendors participate--and 101 family members came to support the young adults.

It is no wonder that Katie Guarino won an Inspire a Shared Vision Award and subsequently the Employee of the Quarter Award for the 3rd quarter of FY2016. (Katie is pictured in her home town, St. Petersburg, FL, with her hubby, Drew.)  

Here this Main Teen Library Associate, who has only been with JPL since March 2015, explains how she accomplished so much.  
               

Q:   In January of this year Michael Sullivan approached you about organizing a Young Adult Job Fair, after Jackie Spiritas spearheaded a successful YA Job Fair at GB last year with over 200 teens participating.  How did you do that?

A:  I started by gathering as much information as I could from Michael and Jackie.  Since I wasn’t here for the GB job fair, I didn’t know much about it.  Jackie was very organized in putting together the original job fair, so it was just a matter of building on the strong framework that was already there.

Q:  What were the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?  

A:  It’s always hard to get everyone on the same page when you’re working with so many people all across the library system and everyone has other tasks that take priority. It was crucial to have teamwork from the Job Fair Committee, use clear communication, and then follow up.  We had an expectation for two pre-fair workshops per region, which was a challenge to coordinate.  I asked for help from the Job Fair Committee to create three different options for program plans, then we checked in with the Teen staff frequently to make sure they had programs scheduled. 

Q:   What was the response from administration, employers, teens and family members who attended?

A:  I think everyone was completely floored by the turnout, especially me. We were cautiously optimistic that we would have 400 attendees, but there was already a line down the next block before the doors opened and to see over 1,000 YA's participate made all of our efforts worth it! I think the more attention we give the 16-24 age demographic, the more response we will see. We are already brainstorming ways to make the Young Adult Job Fair bigger and better next year.

Q:  Your position allows you to enable teens to reach their full potential.  Other than the YA Job Fair, what other opportunities have you used to do just that?

A: It's very trial-and-error with what works for teens. I first try to create programs that will appeal to teens. They won't get any value out of a program they don't attend.

Q:   What are the greatest assets you have that make you successful in your position?         

A:  I set high standards for myself and I apply the same standards to projects I contribute to with others. I didn't have much leadership experience before the Job Fair, but I tried not to ask others to do work I wouldn't be willing to do myself. 

Staff Profile - August 2016

As our YS Department’s Early Childhood Specialist, Susan Mankowski doesn’t have a “9-5 job”.  She does have a passion for Early Childhood Literacy (ECL) that is apparent to even a casual observer.  Her own work, as well as her success with JPL’s

partnerships, prove she gives much of herself and makes us all proud to know Susan. 

You will see how United Way's partnering with JPL has put your contributions to excellent use and those who contribute to worthwhile causes always make a huge difference.

Q:  You’ve been involved with ECL for eight or nine years at JPL.  What progress has been made in educating parents about this critical need?

      A:  Over the past nine years, it has been a pleasure to see staff embrace early literacy and become advocates for our youngest customers.  Youth Services staff are more aware of early literacy and are now confident to speak with parents and community members about this area.  As a result, JPL is becoming a beacon in the community for people who want to know more about early literacy and early learning.  Our story times have always supported the development of literacy skills, but now we can say why we do what we do.  This also helps when developing partnerships with other early childhood agencies, which ultimately goes back to supporting our families.  So the progress I’ve seen?  Knowledge, confidence, and the ability to share information about early literacy with the community. 

Q: Recently (June 1 – 20, 2016), JPL successfully partnered with United Way in the ReadingPals program.  What other partnerships are planned to advance ECL?

A:  We have wonderful relationships within the early learning community, and I’m excited to see how the partnerships continue to evolve.  Since the successful summer book drive, we are working with ReadingPals to update and distribute the ReadingPals read-alike recommendations (check out a copy in your Children’s Department), and provide training for in-coming ReadingPals volunteers on how to read and engage young children.  Tours for pediatric residents from UF Health will continue, as literacy levels directly correlate with addiction, incarceration, and health outcomes.  The pediatricians are always amazed at how much the library offers to support their families and they speak so highly of the staff they meet.  We will continue attending Early Learning Coalition board meetings, New Town Success Zone, Read It Forward Jax, and Community Action Network partnership meetings to promote and answer questions about JPL services and resources.  Meghan Parkinson is gearing up for a second year as the Early Childhood Specialist with JPL’s LEAP program.  She is working hard with staff from the Urban Core to bring youth programs and resources into neighborhoods in Health Zone 1.  We are about to start year 2 in the Duval County Public Schools partnership!  Early childhood covers birth to 8 years, so Kindergarten field trips and Student Library Cards will play a big role in advancing early literacy opportunities for school children in Duval.  I’m sure other opportunities will present themselves as the year progresses.  

      Q:  What is your favorite part of your job?

 A:  The relationships. I love going out and being with staff.  Collaborating on projects, rearranging furniture, creating early learning spaces in the department, hearing funny stories about programs, or brainstorming challenge: I love it.  I also love going out to community events and bragging about what we do as a library system.  It’s so rewarding and fun to connect a customer with a library resource they did not know existed.  The best are the active users who love my JPL resource challenge and turn it around to try and stump me.  

Q:  You won the Sherwood Smith Children’s Champion Award in June. What is this about and what did you do that resulted in you receiving this award?

      A:  The Sherwood H. Smith Children’s Champion Award is an annual award given by United Way of Northeast Florida.  Two awards are given, actually.  One for service and one for advocacy, and I am honored to have received the Children’s Champion Award for Advocacy: “A community advocate whose efforts have resulted in positive change in policies or conditions that impact the well-being of children and youth in Northeast Florida”.  In a nutshell, I was nominated for my role in working with staff to enrich their early childhood programs and resources, as well as creating research-based training and materials for parents, teachers, and community members. 

Q:  What personal plans are on your horizon?

   

 A:  I have a few personal goals I’d like to accomplish.  I live in an older home and enjoy learning how to do many of the fixes and improvements myself (except electrical, I don’t do electrical), and my yard needs a major overhaul.  I’d like to become Florida landscape certified and/or a Master Gardner, so I can address not just the beauty but the actual problems in a way that are eco-friendly and that I can upkeep on my own.  However, a short-term goal is to use my passport again this year.  I traveled with my church and the Jacksonville University choir on a singing tour of Italy in May, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  Then I went to celebrate my friend’s birthday in Canada in July.  So I’ve got the travel bug, and want to go somewhere else by next April.  I don’t have any idea where that will be, so I am open to suggestions!  

Staff Profile - July 2016

Margaret Morford has mastered one of Wisdom's greatest components: knowing when to speak and when not to; she has that down pat.  And you would never know if she doesn't like someone because she is gracious to all. This Special Collections Librarian tops off these jeweled characteristics with a proficiency she wears like comfortable shoes.  

Margaret's husband, Don, is a physician. She is a proud aunt of grown nieces, Mary and Kris, and she and Don are excited about their planned visit with them and their families in Ocean City, MD, in late July.

 Q: You won an “Inspired a Shared Vision” award in the 2^nd fiscal quarter for your accomplishments with the JPL 50+ grant program.  What did the grant require of JPL?

A:  JPL was one of 4 libraries in the country selected to receive the AARP Foundation ISOA grant that ran from June 1, 2015 through March 31, 2016.  JPL was chosen due to its excellent programs for seniors.  Since Jacksonville’s population has 30% of its people over 50 years of age, we were considered an excellent candidate for the grant.  

The grant required that we combine AARP Foundation resources with library staff, volunteers, materials and programs to help patrons ages 50+ to find jobs and local support agencies to achieve economic success.  We performed 5 minute intake surveys for the AARP Foundation at a designated place in the library Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., August 2015 through March 2016 and we surveyed 460 people.  The survey was designed by the AARP Foundation which asked people if they had concerns about food costs, housing, looking for a job, wanting information about free tax preparation, or taking care of a relative. If they were interested, the AARP Foundation would send the person information about organizations within the community that could help them.

Q: How did you promote the JPL 50+ program and what challenges did you overcome?

                                      

A: The American Library Association monthly magazine American Libraries interviewed Lisa Buggs and me about the success of the JPL 50+ program and is running an article in the June issue.  

Transportation was an issue for older adults-- getting downtown to participate in the programs and take the surveys. We had to be creative and take programs and outreach to various events.

We had a challenge recruiting volunteers due to the distance they had to drive to get downtown and find convenient parking.

Some people didn’t want to take the survey due to privacy concerns and security of the information taken (i.e. giving name, phone number, and email address). 

We had to move our daily AARP Foundation JPL 50+grant room in the Main Library from the 3^rd floor to the ground floor to increase our visibility to customers and so we could be of more help.

Q:  How did the success of the program benefit JPL?

A: The library reached a good number of older adults in our community. We are continuing our programming at the library for seniors and it continues to be called JPL 50+.  The e-specialists have upcoming technology programs at the branches for seniors with topics such as social networking, Android phones and tablets for Adults 50+, and iPhones and iPads for Adults 50+.  Also programs are planned for topics such as Lawyers in Libraries, Get Financially Fit, and we have Career Source Northeast Florida for those looking for jobs.

By targeting people 50 years of age and older, the library is able to design programs of interest for them to attend and address their needs for resources for technology support, personal finance assistance and health concerns.

Q: You have a long history serving JPL. Please tell us about it.

A: I have been with JPL for almost 12 years after coming from a corporate/scientific librarian environment at a chemical company.  I started in Special Collections at the Main Library as a librarian in the African American Collection and remain in Special Collections as a Librarian II. I really enjoy my work in helping people with their research needs.

I have served on the JPL Leadership Awards Committee, am editor of the Special Collection’s newsletter called The Owl’s Nest, and I served as Pilot Program Manager for the AARP Foundation ISOA – JPL 50+ grant.

Q: What has been the biggest challenge in your life and how did you overcome it?

A: The biggest challenge in my life was finding out I had breast cancer in the fall of 2013.   It was a whirlwind of a year at Mayo Clinic with surgery and treatment, but I am glad to say I am cancer free and doing well.  I appreciate the support I have had from my family and friends (including library, neighborhood, and church friends). The love for my job has gotten me through it.  I definitely have a lot to be thankful for.

There were better days ahead:

Margaret and Don at the Kentucky Derby, May 7, 2016. 

Staff Profile - June 2016

Katie Devanny, now Program Manger for CAL.  The pic is from one of the first ESOL classes she taught at the Main Library.

 At times one wonders why we face the daunting challenges we encounter in life. Some people address those encounters as a wake up call and rebound with a wonderful determination to make a difference in their own and others' lives.  Meet the astute Katie Devanny, who did--and does--just that.

Q: The Center for Adult Learning (CAL) does so much for our community. Tell us about your department’s various services and who helps get what done.

A: The Center for Adult Learning (CAL) has been serving the residents of Duval County for 30+ years.  We have dabbled in all aspects of literacy throughout the years but our main focus has been Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). For the past year the focus on the ABE side has been preparing students for the GED test. At this time we are more Adult Secondary Education (ASE) oriented and we are looking to expand this next year into workforce development. Our ESOL program helps over 700 immigrants coming from 90 different countries. Our staff is large compared to most departments. We are part of the LEAP team out in the community offering GED® and Conversation Essentials, and as you know, we oversee the Career Online High School (COHS) for JPL. Tammy Owens is the supervisor and she runs the daily operations and COHS.  Denise Thomas is our volunteer and outreach coordinator. Katie Bark is our GED coordinator at Main. She teaches classes, assesses students, and helps with the volunteer instructors.  Valencia Kidwell is our full time ESOL instructor at Main. Sergio Lagman is our part time ESOL coordinator for UPK and CW and he teaches at Main, UPK, and CW. Margaret Gloag is a part time ESOL instructor at Main. Kathy Zaccardi is the ESOL coordinator for PCR and SE. Kwanza Yates is the brand new GED instructor who will be working at various libraries. We have two people working on the LEAP grant: Samantha Lee and Michele Goolsby. I had to mention everyone and what they do because without them CAL would not be possible and I would not have a job.

Q: Partnerships have become invaluable to JPL. What other agencies/organizations interrelate with CAL and how does that benefit both CAL and them?

A: CAL works with Learn to Read (LTR) of Jacksonville, a non-profit adult education program working with adults reading at a comprehension level from zero to sixth grade. LTR is based here at the Main library and they share CAL’s workroom and computer lab. Through the LEAP program we have made a number of community partnerships with local agencies such as NFCCA- Northeast Florida Community Action Agency.  We work with the local refugee agencies throughout the year on small projects. The partnerships really benefit the students. Jacksonville is so large and overwhelming in its complexities of needs, so it is great to have partners to refer students to and have students referred to us.

Q: As Program Manager of CAL how do you oversee the different functions of CAL?

A: CAL has done a 180 degree turn over this past year.  When I first took over I felt like the kid in the pool with my swimmies on.  I was not able to function without the support I received from everyone in the JPL system, and I mean everyone.  At the beginning I was just another CAL employee “doing” CAL projects but with the title of manager. Now, my team is getting stronger. I have a supervisor taking on the daily running of the department and I am becoming the planner for the department not the doer.

Q: Before you came to JPL in 2007, what background did you have that helped prepare you for this position and why was JPL/CAL a good fit for you?

A: I had worked in retail most of my life. When I first graduated from college I worked for Harborplace in Baltimore as their Special Events Coordinator. After two years I foolishly wanted to get back into retail because I really like helping customers.  I worked for GAP Inc. for 16 years and then a few big box retailers.  I was usually the district trainer in some capacity or another and so teaching came easily to me. When I decided to start my own business and went looking for part time work, the ABE classes at CAL appealed to me. My sister has worked in the adult education field for years so I had been exposed to many of the methods used with teaching ABE classes. The previous manager, Sharon, took a chance and hired me on a grant and the rest is history.

Q: Tell us something about yourself that most of us would not know.

A: That’s hard. I’m an open book--no pun intended. I know my staff knows this but I just like being happy and having fun. When I was 24 I was in a coma for three days, and I have always felt I was healed for a reason. No, I didn’t sell all my belongings and give my life to service, but I feel I’m here for some purpose: help others, lead my team, and make someone smile.

Staff Profile - May 2016

Cheryl Callavini, Southeast Branch's YS Librarian III, has served in several positions and locations with JPL.  

Where best to share your love of reading, story telling, and a desire to enrich people's lives than as a librarian. Cheryl has served her family, JPL, and its customers for almost three decades and is now ready to expand her life in new ways when she retires soon.  We will miss her and hope she checks in with us occasionally after she checks out of JPL. 

Q: You have 37 years with JPL. What motivated you for so long?

A:  Every day I learn something new, whether researching a question for a customer, or in training to keep up with all the libraries' great new services.  

Q:  What professional attributes helped you the most along your career path?

A:  My Love of reading and literature and wanting to impart that passion to our customers, through storytimes and finding just the right book for the avid reader as well as the reluctant reader.

I also love the detective work in finding the answer to a customer’s question through the reference interview process and the research using our databases and other multiple sources.

I once helped a customer who was adopted find her birth parents in Germany.  She visited them in Germany and returned to show me the write up in a German magazine giving the library credit in the help of her search. I felt a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of rightness about the profession I had chosen.

Q: In what capacities have you served JPL and what have you learned from your experience?

A:  I have worked as a reference librarian, branch manager, children’s librarian, branch manager again and finally as a Youth Services Librarian III.  

I enjoy that moment when the light bulb goes on and you know the child gets the answer he has asked you to help him find. I have learned how rewarding it is to reassure a parent who is looking for help with a problem their child has, when you can share information to guide them through this stage of development.

Q:  Do you have some suggestions for new librarians?

A:  Each day you arrive at work is a fresh new start. Mistakes made previously can be looked at as stepping stones to your learning experience. Find the joy in each day. I try and live by Mother Theresa’s quote, “We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop”.

Q:  What are some future plans you would share with us?  

A:  Travel, Travel, Travel.  Working and raising a family has kept me grounded; now I am ready to fly.  I have a list of places to visit this year, including a Mediterranean cruise (a graduation gift for my niece), Hawaii, and enjoying a New England fall. Next year, I am open to suggestions.

Staff Profile - April 2016

Emily Gideon, San Marco Branch's Children's Library Associate, coordinated the Teens Make a Difference grant program and the Prime Time Story Time grant program for three years before going full time with JPL. Both programs had ties with a number of libraries: CW, MH , KR, AR, UPK, Main, AYL, GB and DU. On a whim to test herself, Emily took the Library Associate exam. (She had planned to homeschool her daughter for one more year and wait to take a job.) She passed the test and JPL offered her a job at SS and SS is in her neighborhood, next to the school her son attended, and the one her daughter would attend the next year. Emily had a perfect match and has been at SS a year and a half. (Cherry on her whipped cream is she goes home for lunch and is able to take her daughter to/from school twice a week.)

PRICELESS: Emily with one of SS's youngest customers, whose expression appears as one of disdain about being photographed, but she may be thinking, "Oh, well; I DO have a cute hat and my best dress on, so it's ok."

Q: You helped increase circulation recently at SS, as attested to by your Branch Manager Lilia Simonton. That is no small accomplishment. How did that happen?

I started with one story time and now have three. With these story times I display books that relate to the theme. Increasing programming has helped with the circulation. Jill Haile does a fantastic job ordering books and so I feature the new books on displays. I also put seasonal books on display and make sure those displays are never empty.

Q. Specifically, what did you do in these individual projects that effected such positive results?

I have been enthusiastic about welcoming families into the San Marco children’s department. I love children’s books and I love sharing those books with the kids and I don’t mind laughing at myself. My story times are not perfect and more than once a parent or caregiver has had to help me out with a rhyme but we always have a good time.

Part of creating community has been attending School Advisory Council (SAC) meetings at Spring Park Elementary. Through that partnership, Mrs. Picray, the media specialist, suggested we have a pajama story time and she would come and read. In December, we were able to host Spring Park Elementary. Not only did Mrs. Picray read, but we had a special guest, Mrs. Molly Curry, the mayor’s wife, participate as well.  Mrs. Curry brought her three children in pajamas, and they all enjoyed the gingerbread, crafts, and activities.

Q:  As head of SS’s Children’s Department, do you see future projects that you can build on your present successes?

A: In addition to the school pajama story time we also had a stuffed animal sleep over story time.  In the future, I would like to have a once a month story time for families where both parents work and don’t have a chance to take their child to a morning story time. I would like to do a paper mache project with the 6^th graders that come every afternoon at 3:00 when school gets out. 

Q:  Is there anything in your past work experience that has helped you in your current position?

A: For 5 years, I worked in the children’s department of Barnes and Noble and then I homeschooled my four children for almost 15 years. I have taught pre-k - 5th grade at least three times, and 6^th and 7^th grades once because my children entered public school at different times. Having four varied readers in my house has also made me keenly aware of different genres of children’s books, which is helpful when a recommendation is needed.

Barnes and Noble regularly changed not only their displays but rearranged the whole department to keep things interesting for customers. I also keep in mind what I wanted as a mom when I took my kids to story time. I started taking my oldest to story time in Palm Bay, FL. I loved the rhymes and books she chose but I don’t think she ever learned our names. By the time I took my youngest to story time we were in Jacksonville and we sat through Mrs. Mary’s story times at UPK. She was always so friendly to all of my children. I also took my children to Mrs. Marie and Mrs. Rebecca’s programs at Main and they also always made us feel welcome. It’s about marketing but it goes hand in hand with community. 

An Easter 2015 picture of Emily's family, L/R: John-Thomas (20, clerk at Main; honors student at UNF); Emmett (15, IB student at Stanton);  Josh (Supervisor for the City Building Dept.); Elise (11, at Landon); Stewart (18, senior at Stanton, accepted into the honors program at FSU for the fall) and Emily Gideon.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?

A: In 5 years, I look forward to more established relationships with people in the San Marco community.  I especially hope to see little Weston or little Nola, who came to my first story time a year and a half ago, come visit me to say they will be going to Landon middle school and they will look forward to visiting me after school.

In 5 years, I see my job of raising my children as almost done. I will only have one child at home in her junior year of high school, one just finishing his first year as an honor student at some unknown college and will have two done with their enrollment as honor students at UNF and FSU and hopefully will be getting their Masters.In five years, I see myself preparing for an empty nest and filling it with JPL and spending time with my husband, Joshua 

Staff Profile - March 2016

In her 18 years with JPL, Kathy Tekin has served in several areas of management and is currently managing Webb Wesconnett Branch. Flexible, quickly responsive to change and challenge, and  ever evolving would describe Kathy's professional life. On the personal side, Kathy is married to Francis Tekin and has a grown daughter, Tara, and Tara and her hubby plan to make the Tekins grandparents soon. As a first time expectant grandparent, Kathy is excited and busy making baby clothes for baby Emma in her spare time.

  

Q: You have an extensive background with JPL. Please tell us where you have served and in what positions.

A: I started full time in July 1998 at the Highlands Branch as Children’s Librarian under Jane Harris, Branch Manager.  In December 2001, I promoted to Library Supervisor of Programming (children’s and adult), which was a new position with JPL, and transferred to the old Main Library. I worked closely with the Jaguar Foundation and the Jacksonville Zoo to create the program ZooTREK (Teaching Reading Exploring with Kids) in the urban core libraries. At the end of the fall session, the children and their chaperons could attend a Jaguar game and sit in the Honor Rows section.

In 2005, I was given the opportunity to work with just the youth portion and my title changed to Youth Services Coordinator.  I worked with two grants—one for summer reading and the second for Prime Time Family Reading Time. I was also able to hire our first Early Childhood Specialist for JPL, Susan Mankowski.

In 2013, I changed positions to become co-Library Supervisor of the Main Library with Erica Brown.  I managed Popular/Fiction, Special Needs Library/ILL, and the Center for Adult Learning.  It was the beginning of new and different responsibilities.

In July 2015, I was transferred to the West Regional Library and came full circle where Jane Harris is once again my supervisor. In November 2015, my next move was to Webb Wesconnett Regional Library.

Q: How would you define leadership versus management and how both can best be used to better JPL?

A: Leadership is working with a team of people to achieve the same goals by providing direction, guidance, and leading by example.

Management is keeping the team moving forward toward the goals through listening, acknowledgement of team progress toward the goals, recognizing the potential stumbling blocks, and following up on individual contributions to the team effort.

As the manager of a very busy branch, it takes both leadership and management for staff to achieve the goals of JPL.  It also means that you need to be visible on the floor for customers and staff. It also means communicating your expectations for BLAST (Believe, Listen, Apologize, Satisfy, and Thank) customer service and reinforcing the positive interactions with customers and co-workers.  It also means dealing quickly with the uncomfortable issues that arise.

Q: Are there any lessons in management and/or leadership that your experience has garnered that didn’t come from a textbook?

A: Good mentors from my past and learning from my own mistakes are two I can think of. My first professional position was in a small library system with one building. Sharing what was happening in the children’s department could really affect the entire building--from the number of customers to the number of items that were checked out in a given day. 

Textbooks also do not teach you how to deal with day-to-day issues with buildings and difficult/challenging customers. These items you learn from your supervisors, coworkers, and from other professionals in the field. In my first position, I learned that I had to plunge the toilet that overflowed as we did not have a custodian on site all day. The men’s room had a clogged toilet and since the public restrooms were on my floor, I was given the task to plunge the toilet.

Q: What are the differences in managing a department versus a branch?

 A: Managing a branch is smaller in size compared to Main. The branches I have managed are just as busy in regards to computer use and DVD checkouts. Webb Wesconnett Branch is busier than West Regional Branch when it comes to computer use and needing assistance. Staff is smaller and more dependent on each other, so everyone needs to know how to fill in at the various desks in a pinch.  At Main, you need to know other departments and their primary functions to fill in during a pinch and you are less likely to fill in for circulation. Having worked both, I do not see a lot of difference. You are still responsible for the building and all the services provided by staff.

Q: Who are one or two of your mentors or heroes and why?

A: Kathleen Zaenger, Director of Howell Carnegie District Library taught me a lot about working in a public library. Previously, I had worked in school media centers for two school districts. I communicated with a library board and Friends group and learned the importance of knowing members of your community and other city departments, i.e. police and fire. I was delegated with the task of meeting with a team of community volunteers to construct a float for the local Melon Fest Parade to provide the library’s request for an independent millage to support the library. The children from the summer reading program already participated in the annual parade each August. The millage rate was passed by the voters for the library to become a District Library with the necessary funds to expand the Howell Carnegie Library. Ms. Zaenger provided me the opportunity to use some of my knowledge from previous work experience in the construction industry when we expanded the Howell Library. I was the liaison with the architect and contractor representing the library and library board.

Carolyn Williams was another mentor. I wish I had her poker face when dealing with some situations. Those of us who have worked with Carolyn over the years know exactly what I am saying. You never knew what she was thinking while explaining some idea or situation until she was willing to share her thoughts.

Staff Profile - February 2016

Who would think a techy would be a branch manager and an accomplished artist?  Many of us have a much broader spectrum of interests, talents, and gifts than our coworkers know.  Karen Walker certainly does.  Now SST's Manager of e-Services and Digital Access, she is goal driven but well grounded and plays a critical role in meeting internal and external customers' needs. 

Q: As SST’s Manager of e-Services and Digital Access, what are your present responsibilities at JPL and have you worked elsewhere in JPL?

I started in 2003 working as a reference librarian at the Mandarin Branch.  I was the Senior Librarian at Highlands Branch, Manager at Westbrook and Graham Branches and then spent over five years in ILS.   When the E-Services and Digital Access Department was created in October 2012, I moved into that position.  

We have built an extensive technology class curriculum with the E-Library Specialists offering over 500 technology classes each quarter as well as hundreds of available appointments to assist customers with their tech questions.  

Daily content is created or updated on the public website.  We are advertising events and services, notifying our customers on important updates regarding branches and creating new content in support of library programs.  The website team has been working diligently to learn Drupal and assist in the design of the new website we’ll launch this spring.  This has been a massive undertaking and, while managing to keep up with all the work on the current site, the new public website is taking shape.  We will have a navigable, responsive, ADA compliant site that will be a big improvement for our customers. 

Q: How does your position interrelate with other departments of JPL and COJ?

All staffs are welcome to attend our classes, schedule appointments, and use our help sheets and start guides to assist themselves and customers using the services we provide.  It is increasingly important for public service staff to assist customers in using our downloadable media services and apps, help them connect to our Wi-Fi, and so on.   It is also important that staff refer more complex or time consuming questions to E-Services.   If a customer needs individual attention or more time than can be given on a busy reference desk, the open lab or an appointment get them the service they need.  

The information available on both the public website and the Neighborhood is invaluable to customers and staff.  The website is visited millions of times over the course of a year so its value really can’t be overstated.  

Q: Did you have previous professional experience prior to coming to JPL?

I worked as a Law Librarian in Los Angeles after I graduated from UCLA.  After my husband and I moved from LA to Jacksonville, I spent nine years working in IT installing, maintaining, and supporting Windows and Novell networks, conducting training on network administration and desktop applications and supporting accounting and document management programs popular at the time.       

Q: Is there new technology on the horizon that your department will soon add to help employees and/or customers?

We’ve added a lot this year including coding, Photoshop, MAC, Windows 10, 3D printing and Linux.   *We’re always looking for new technology to bring to our customers to help them learn and transition to the next relevant upgrade or innovation.  That’s the nature of technology.  We’re also, through LEAP, offering a number of outreach computer classes throughout the Urban Core.  We will have, by March 1, twelve classes in four different outreach locations each week. 

Q:  Would you share something about yourself that most of us don't know?

  

A: Most people don’t know that I paint-- watercolor almost exclusively.  Here is a photo of one of my watercolors and a photo of me on a cruise ship vacation “pretending” to be the

ship’s reference librarian. 

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*Scroll down (3rd article below) and see the article about Justin Keiser's trip to the Consumer's Electronic Show in Las Vegas.