Feeding Dreams Program in Northwest

Bradham Brooks Northwest was selected to host a General Mills Feeding Dreams Program.
We had 47 ladies in attendance and Reverend Yvette Williams was our special honoree.
The program is designed to empower African American women in health and education.

Operation Christmas Cards at CW

Webb Wesconnett Branch is involving children in Operation Christmas Cards. Michaels Arts & Crafts sponsored CW by providing stickers and cards. Children make the Christmas cards and then staff gives them back to Michaels to be sent to the soldiers in Afghanistan. CW has offered this program three times a week. Interest has grown and CW now has about 125 kids who participate. Operation Christmas Cards will culminate the end of October.

Princes and Pirates Party at CW

Webb Wesconnett Branch hosted a Halloween party, October 27, with 90 kids (and some adults), who came to show off their costumes.  Before they could ask, "Trick or treat?", CW offered plenty of candy, food, and other goodies.

How DO You Get 500+ Kids To Your Library?

On October 25th, Urban Library Center staff, including Garland Wilson, Anthony Williams, Joshua Wise and Library Supervisor, Marshelle Berry, welcomed a parade of over 500 students from R. L. Brown Elementary School. Students, teachers, and parents, as well as the Principal and Vice Principal, made their way through the Brown-Eastside Branch Library dressed as book characters. Those who did not have JPL cards, completed library card applications, which were handed to staff as students chanted, “We love to Read”. Each student was given a colorful bookmark to take with them.

In upper left photo, students file into Eastside Branch as Joshua Wise holds the door, and Garland Wilson passes out bookmarks to students in lower photo.

The event was followed by a Family Learning Night at the school and staff also participated in that.

Fire Prevention Program @ Northwest

October is fire prevention month, Northwest had a wonderful program today with Officer Cynthia Downer from the Fire and Rescue department. We had 61 in attendance representing Precious Hearts Learning Center, As we Grow Learning Center, St. Thomas Child Development Center and Genius Factory Learning Center. Thanks to Maude Scott, Northwest's Children's librarian for coordinating this program.

Councilman Ray Holt Reads at Highlands Branch

On October 24, Councilman Ray Holt (pictured center, facing camera, photo to right) visited Highlands Branch Library and read a book at the Family Preschool Story Time. CM Holt recently presided over the opening of the Oceanway Express lockers, for which Highlands is responsible. At that same event, a dog park was opened at the Oceanway community center, so DU chose dogs as their story time theme.

Beverly Mason (center, facing camera in photo at left), DU's Children’s Library Associate, planned and presented the story time. CM Holt read the book, Digby Takes Charge, by Caroline Jayne Church, and sang along with “B.I.N.G.O” and “How Much is that Doggie in the Window.” Ms. Mason reports that CM Holt was an excellent reader, engaging the audience of 20 preschoolers and parents. As an elected official, CM Holt is used to taking the stage. He also “has the three most adorable children on the planet” according to his official online profile and is clearly comfortable reading to children.

Southeast Branch Draws Kids With Chibi

Southeast Chibi Drawing Club proudly presents the "Artists of the Month" (top picture).  Each month students (a girl and a boy) get their own exhibition in the SE Teen Department.  Congratulations to October Artists Stephanie Preston and Tyler Ray, who attended the program all summer and did great artwork.  You are invited to visit SE Teen Department and feast your eyes.

SE Tween Chibi Drawing Club (bottom left) welcomed autumn with a party recently where they snacked on cupcakes and chocolate milk.  Chibi drawing classes will be going full speed during winter 2012, too.

Palin Hangul, SE Library Associate, sent in these pictures and comments and said "chibi" is a different kind of manga art in that it is simpler and more cartoonish than manga.

Library Leadership Students Making History

Carol Bunker, left, Library Clerk at Webb Wesconnett Branch, and her father, Lowell Edwin (Ed) Bunker, Maintenance Worker Crew Leader for Public Works, are LDA students . This is the first time two generations have taken this City program together.  He graduated from LDA, October 19; she has one more class left.  Carol and Ed realize LDA is essential to being promoted within their respective City departments.

Carol says, "LDA is fun and informative. I have learned so much from the program and gained a lot of information and friends along the way. I believe that it has helped me have better relationships with my coworkers and supervisors."  Additionally, she is enjoying her first semester at the School of Information Science at Florida State University, working towards her Master's degree in Information Science and hopes to become a librarian and eventually a supervisor. For now, she is happy being a clerk and going to school.

Kudos from Customers

Bradham Brooks Northwest Branch: “The library staff that is working here at this time are the most helpful and polite staff that I have ever encountered in this branch. I must point out Shivon (Rockward). …She is just walking around helping everyone and doing it in a very professional manner...”

Main – Center for Adult Learning: “…I am originally from Nicaragua. I wanted ...to say thank you to Miss Tammy Owens in the Center for Adult Learning for all of the help in my class and all of the materials that she is sharing with me. My goal is to write very good English, and I learn new rules each time I come to her class. Also, my husband is so happy when I share everything with him that I learn. Thank you so much, Miss Tammy, for everything you do to help me and all of the other students that are in your classes.”

Main – Popular Department: “Peggy (Glasnapp) was so helpful - always had a smile on her face. Hard to find good customer service these days - she is a dying breed.”

Mandarin Branch and Main's Interlibrary Loan Departmnt: “I would like to again compliment those men and women who …are very, very professional and give me outstanding service. They include: Cheryl Callavini, Branch Manager; Larry Butler, Don Carpenter, Elizabeth Garnett, Becky McClure, Linda Smith, Margo Crafton, David Foster, Elaine Roberson, Frances Wickes, Sarah Miller, Robert Moseley, Mildred Roton, Eric Cusaac, David Jones, Sim Yam, Tammy Hilbert, Diane Lewis, Josh Santiago, Lisa Veal, Shuki Banerjee, Jessica Jones, and Brettney Gonzales. I also want to commend Carolyn Hampton in the Interlibrary Loan Division.”

Southeast Branch: “I come in on my lunch hour every day and want to praise Pelin Hangul and Blake Fowler - both are extremely helpful and go out of their way to help all the time. Also reference gentleman w/ glasses, middle age - very helpful.”

JPL's Library Board Is Forward Thinking

Mayor Alvin Brown says City departments must be ready for reorganization.  With input from the Capacity Plan, JPL's Library Board will be setting up an action plan for the library.  It will focus on five key areas all staff should be aware of, and we will hear more about this in coming months:

1. Strengthen information delivery.
2. Maintain buildings adequately.
3. Remedy inequities in library service.
4. Stabilize funding.
5. Ensure flexibility in staffing.

These five focus points are posted in front of every Library Board meeting.  JPL owes a BIG thank you to Jim Selzer, Chair, and every Board member for their forward thinking and more than able leadership of this library system in difficult times.

Got Friends? Oh, Yes, We Do!

Barbara Gubbin, our Library Director, says "Thank You's" are important and it's true, appreciation never goes out of style.  Library support flowed in from many directions before and during our recent City Council meeting, September 27, which went into the wee hours of September 28.  Our many vocal supporters helped influence City Council and JPL got back $1.7 million of the original $3.1 million proposed library budget cuts.  Our Friends groups played a big part in our public support.  Why not say "Thank You" to these advocates when you see them--especially considering October 16-22 is National Friends of Libraries Week--as well as any others you know who made that special effort:

Harry Reagan, President of the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library
Virginia Maxted, President, Friends of the Beaches Branch
Alisa Harrell, President, Friends of the Bradham Brooks Northwest Branch
Celia Miller, Graham Branch
Judy Klein, President, Friends of Murray Hill Branch
Alicia Johnson, President, Friends of the Willowbranch Branch

And, if you called or wrote your City Council Member, give yourself a pat on the back.

Northwest's Art Program

Children from local Bradham*Brooks-Northwest area schools (Good Shepherd, For Your Child Only, and Genius Factory) came to the library for a special program in which they painted their very own works of art. Shivon Rockward got the creative juices flowing and Maude Scott sent the teachers back to school with goody bags of library promotional materials as a “Thank You” for attending. The program was a blast with 44 children and 6 adults! For more pictures click here.

50 Years Celebrated for Brown Eastside Branch

It was a bright, sunshiny day as Marshelle Berry, Brown Eastside Branch Manager, welcomed everyone to this library's 50th anniversary celebration, October 5. She introduced former State Sen. Tony Hill, who represented Mayor Alvin Brown. He recounted his "home branch" memories for the approximately 50 people in attendance. Sen. Hill grew up across the street from this library and Willy Dennis, the branch's first manager, encouraged him to read books instead of some of his other after-school activities--and he decided to heed her advice. She told him reading could take him to higher places in life and when he and Ms. Dennis attended Pres. Clinton's inauguration years later, Sen. Hill reminded Ms. Dennis of her admonition.

Sen. Hill read Mayor Brown's proclamation commemorating the library's 50th anniversary and declaring October 5, 2011, as Brown Eastside Branch Library Day.

He noted that he and Councilman Dr. Johnny Gaffney had played football together in this neighborhood and were best friends, and then introduced him to speak.

CM Dr. Johnny Gaffney stressed that he was passionate about his service as a City Councilman. He said he owed his success to the good Lord and one of the things that contributed to his pursuing a Ph.D. in education was the Brown Eastside Branch Library. He said, "We cannot afford to let this library shut down," and was glad when Ms. Berry asked him to speak at this event.

Charlotte Brown Osgood, daughter of Raiford Allen Brown, Sr., for whom this library was named, said several members of the Brown family had travelled far to attend this celebration. Her father advocated for the community and implored City Council to put a library in this neighborhood. Subsequently, Eastside Branch was built and dedicated, August 12, 1961. (It was renovated in 1992 and expanded under The Better Jacksonville Plan in 2004.) Mrs. Osgood said Maryanne Pearson, who retired from JPL as department head for the Main Library's Business, Science, and Documents Department years later, had been Willy Dennis' first assistant at Brown Eastside, and she also was in attendance. Mrs. Osgood thanked everyone who made this library possible and said the fight for libraries is not over.

Mrs. Osgood dedicated a book she brought for Brown Eastside, Remembering Neighborhoods of Jacksonvile, Florida: Oakland, Campbell's Addition, East Jacksonville, and Fairfield: the African-American Influence, by Mary F. Mungen Jameson.

Library Director Barbara Gubbin and Jim Selzer, Chair of the Library Board of Trustees, also spoke and thanked the Brown family, legislators, and all who attended and cared deeply about Brown Eastside Branch.

Mr. Selzer presented CM Dr. Gaffney with a book for the Eastside Branch, The Mentor Leader, by Tony Dungy, which will be dedicated in his honor. Mr. Selzer expressed appreciation to all City Council members who supported JPL in the recent budget process that effected $1.7 million being restored to JPL from the original $3.1 million FY2012 budget cut. He said the speakers for this event had emphasized the value of Brown Eastside Branch Library in the successes they attained and they seemed to think of this library as a second home--and so all of our libraries should be considered by customers.

He asked Jackie Perry, Library Board Trustee, to speak and Ms. Perry said she grew up a few blocks from her "home branch", Brown Eastside, and was pleased to serve on the Library Board.

The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library members donated refreshments of cake, ice cream, and punch, which everyone enjoyed at the close of Brown Eastside Branch Library's 50th anniversary celebration.

Photos will be added here when they are ready.

Staff Profile

Marilyn Jordan, West Regional's Clerical Services Supervisor, won the third quarter Model the Way and Employee of the Quarter awards--and for no small accomplishments. Both Jane Harris, WST's Branch Manager, and Ron Block, Circulation Services Coordinator, recognized her proficiency in cash handling procedures and asked Marilyn to illustrate them to JPL employees who need training in balancing accounts for all monetary transactions.

Ron Block asked her to illustrate and explain her cash handling procedures, processes, procedures and financial paper work to City auditors. She was appointed chair of the Cash Handling Committee and worked diligently to develop written procedures that can be clearly and accurately conveyed to library personnel. Marilyn has trained all WST staff and those from other JPL locations in reading and correlating audit reports with daily financial statements, but let's hear the story in Marilyn Jordan's own words:

Q: You saw a need for JPL staff to have a uniform way to account for monetary transactions. How did you propose to solve this need and get supervisory approval to use your cash handling methods?

A: I was approached by a member of JPL Administration and asked to work on a team with other JPL employees, both from Public Service and JPL Finance, plus team members from ASD to create a uniform way of handling money at all JPL libraries. The team members--Charlene Ovshak, Donna Crowther, Cindy Chism, Bill Schaefer, Renee Frederick, Mary Namala--and I worked very hard to create a JPL cash handling manual that was manageable and would account for all the ways that the library is unique as a City agency. We also made sure that our manual was in line with the City's cash handling policy.

Q: Did you write cash handling procedures "from scratch" for JPL based on City cash handling policy, or revise procedures that were already in place?

A: We used the old JPL cash handling manual as a guideline. After we revised and added everything we thought was pertinent we compared our proposed manual to the City's cash handling manual to make sure we were not violating any City policy. We had to make some changes and additions; overall, however, we streamlined what was already in place.

The biggest challenge we faced was writing VCA and copier procedures. From Bil Schaefer we realized the old copier form we had always filled out really did not tell us what we needed to know. Bill created a new copier log form and instruction guide that makes copier collection much easier.

Q: What advice, if any, did the City auditors have for your proposed guidelines?

A: The auditors advised us that our manual should be in sync with the City's cash handling manual and to be sure we had policies in place that would ensure that we are good stewards of the taxpayer's money.

We implemented checks and balances on all cash handling duties so JPL staff can see at a glance if there is a problem. The new copier log sheet, the VCA report, and the daily audit are some of the tools provided to help employees with daily cash handling responsibilities.

Q: Which branch employees have you trained in cash handling and do you plan to continue this training for JPL?

A: I have worked with all of the reference staff at West Regional on proper cash handling. I've also worked with employees from several other branches on general cash handling duties and how to use the daily audit as a tool to see if your money is really balanced. I am a huge proponent of consistency throughout the system, so if I am asked to provide training, I will be happy to comply. Employees I have worked with thus far seem to have benefited from the training I have provided.

Q: Who is your favorite author and why?

A: My favorite author is Janet Evanovich because she makes me laugh out loud. When I'm reading her books I always have a smile on my face.

Prime Time Is Prime Example of JPL's Great Service to Families

Kathy Tekin, Library Supervisor for Youth Services, reports that the Prime Time Family Reading Time Program has returned to JPL and this series will be hosted at Webb Wesconnett Branch, running from September 27 & 28 through November 8 & 9. They have enjoyed a successful recruitment of families that will participate in the two-day weekly program that spans six weeks. Attendance the first week boasted 24 family members on Tuesday and 23 family members on Wednesday, and a few more families have registered since September 28.

Additionally, Prime Time scheduled new storytellers--Debra Keels and Robert Kelly--and scholars--Dr. Elizabeth Furdell and Lisa Wells--for this six week session.

Patricia Putman and Carly Guidry with Florida Humanities Council will be at CW's October 11 Prime Time and are meeting staff members from Three Rivers Regional Library System to observe JPL's program.

Teens + Harry Potter Event = Big Success At AR

In July, the Regency Square Branch Library hosted a Harry Potter After Hours event for teens. This event was planned and executed by their Teen Anime & Activity Committee (TAAC), pictured at left. This group of young people worked hard to make this event a success. In addition to planning for the big night, they set up, manned games, conducted activities, monitored themselves and the area for clean-up needs, prepared and served refreshments that included endless cups of butter beer--and then helped clean up after the 37 attendees. Rita Vernon, AR Librarian, reported that they were great about reporting clean-up needs and helping her and other staff members, including those who came from other branches to assist.

Their enthusiasm for this project was so catching that they inspired staff and parents to donate food, time, and attendance at the function. The team's hard work has been recognized with an R&R nomination for a 4th quarter Team Award. Team members included Daniel Jefferson, TAAC President and Vice President, respectively, Devon Quattlebaum and Carlisha Jeminson; TAAC Treasurer Joshua Bertrand, TAAC Advisors Robert Wing and Kathryn McMurtry; Jack Godsey; Donna Leonardy; and DeAngelo Demps.

NW STAFF VISITS ALL ASSIGNED SCHOOLS IN SEPTEMBER

Bradham Brooks Northwest Branch kicked off the school year by participating in a big celebration at the annual Carter G. Woodson Elementary's (CGWE) Community Day on Saturday, August 20. Library Associate Gloria Buenavista (pictured left at a school display table) and Part-time Library Clerk Annie Norris met with 260+ students and parents at the event and promoted library programs and services--everything from Live Homework Help to Zumba classes.

In the month of September, staff attended three open house events at local elementary and middle schools. In addition to CGWE, they visited all of their other assigned schools--16 in all! These schools were presented with informational packets about library events, programs, and services.

Great accomplishment!

Kaherine Day Retires After 23 Years at JPL

Katherine Day, Librarian at Beaches Branch, finishes her long tenure at JPL, September 23, and the Beaches employees honored her with a retirement party on the 14th.

Katherine had this to say about her visions of carefree days, "My plans are to put in a winter vegetable garden (organic, with raised beds) in our back yard; plant some flowers around the place, now that I can tend them; spend time with my husband, kids and granddaughters; read, make jewelry and sew-- and dust off the pressure-cooker because we’ll be eating beans again! I will also grow my healing ministry. And in the spring, Doug and I intend to go to France. It has been a desire of his since he was a kid. So, April in Paris, anyone?"

All of us wish you the very best in all you endeavors, Katherine. We will miss you.

Argyle Programs Are Packed with People and Goodies

Noah Thomas, Libray Clerk II, who started with a 11:00 am Toddler Story Time on Thursdays at the Argyle Branch, has been such a hit with the kids and parents that she now has to offer two toddler times on Thursdays. On average Noah has 60 participants for both programs.

Aracelis Diaz, Children’s Library Assistant, began her weekly After-School Program two weeks ago. The first week she had 20 participants and they played Wii and board games. Last week she had 15 participants and they used their creativity to make candy sushi. They used rice crispy treats for the rice and various candies were put on top of the roll, then topped it off by dipping their candy sushi in chocolate syrup. Ummmm. Does that sound good!

Kudos from Customers

MAIN – CHILDREN’S: “Ms. Laura's (Minnich) story time is well prepared and the crafts are wonderful. She has brought education to her work. My kid began to brush teeth after a tooth story time from her.”

MAIN – REFERENCE & PERIODICALS: “I was helped by a very nice gentleman. … I asked a question and, like a professional, he retrieved the information and handed it to me. I was so grateful. … Mr. Greg Royce, your candor is greatly appreciated.”

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL: “Customer Service: Randy (Mapanoo) was extremely helpful! Thank you.

UNIVERSITY PARK BRANCH: (In response to Counting Opinions Question: “What are you most satisfied with (staff)?” Answer: “Ms. Mina (Figuerrez).”

WEBB WESCONNETT: “Thank you so much for finding and holding my ID and Social Security card. Thank you, Vickie (Leonard)!”

Staff Profile

Graduates of the Sunshine State Library Leadership Institute (SSLLI), Samantha Helfrich, Librarian Senior at Murray Hill Branch, and Laura Minnich, Librarian Senior in the Main Library's Children's Department, each had to complete a project as part of the requirements for graduating from this one year program.

Samantha's project was "to plan a project and write an LSTA grant proposal that will enable the system to evolve a small community library branch from a traditional library space to a learning and information commons. This space will provide the community with greater access to technology, digital literacy training and educational resources. These tools will help customers from a lower socio-econonimic neighborhood bridge the digital divide and promote access and education in the digital age."

Since Laura was the subject of JPL Staff News September 2009 "Staff Profile", we thought it would be fair to ask Samantha to share her experiences as she worked on completing the SSLLI program.

Q: Please tell us about SSLLI and why it is useful to public librarians.

A: The Sunshine State Library Leadership Institute is a year long program offered by the State Library to train library professionals to be tomorrow’s library leaders. It is an intensive series of courses that helps to give meaning to all those leadership practices we hear about on a regular basis, and give library staff a practical tool box for the workplace and community.

Q: Why did you decide to apply for the SSLLI program and how has that benefited you professionally?

A: I had always heard good things about the institute, and when the application was forwarded to me, I decided to apply. Moreover, the mission of the institute spoke to the skills I felt would better equip me to take charge of my professional development. As a new senior in a small branch library, it provided a great deal of insight and perspective to experiences I was having for the first time, and it gave me a greater sense of community with professionals outside the system.

Q: Your project changed as you went through the program; please share with us how that evolved as you worked through it at Murray Hill.

A: When I applied to the institute, I was a teen librarian and the focus of my project reflected a need I saw in young adult services. However, by the time I started the program, I had been transferred to Murray Hill Branch, and as the senior librarian, my focus shifted to needs of the local community and the ways the branch could better address customer needs with online job seeking training and digital literacy skills.

Q: What positive results were effected at Murray Hill due to your efforts on your SSLLI project?

A: Quite candidly, without knowing the outcome on the LSTA grant application, it is hard to tell what the long- term impact will be for the branch. However, working on the grant helped me gain a clearer understanding of what our customers are looking for and what the need is in the community. It helped the branch to identify programs and partnerships we could offer, i.e. personalized computer classes, partnering with WorkSource, and e-government assistance.

Q: What is your favorite leisure time activity?

A: I love all things related to travel. I love to read about it, research places I would like to visit, and agonize over where to go when I have the time to take a vacation.

Southeast Waves Bye to SLP and Celebrates Goin' Back to School

Southeast Branch Library celebrated Going Back to School with their Summer Reading Finale Ice Cream Party, August 17, at 2:00 pm. Over 200 kids and parents enjoyed ice cream with their choice of toppings and sprinkles and freshly popped pop corn from the old fashioned pop corn maker (courtesy of the Mandarin Branch Library).

The party was made even more eventful with three special guests – Library Board Trustee Christina Stallings (top left picture on left facing camera), Deputy Director Carolyn Williams (pictured bottom right, on left facing camera) and our very own Administrative Supervisor Donna Riegel (bottom right, far right, facing camera.)

Trustee Stallings helped Anita Haller (top left, center) give out reading certificates and gift coupons while Carolyn Williams, Carisia Rooney and Volunteer Chelsea Samera served ice cream. Donna Riegel was indispensable handing out napkins and utensils. Volunteer Linda Elmore was in charge of the pop corn, and Paul Schaffner and Pelin Hangul took care of the crowd control. It was team work at its best.

State Rep. Weinstein Reads at SOM

State Rep. Mike Weinstein, pictured left, visited the South Mandarin Branch Library, August 26, 2011, for an all-ages Family Storytime. He read a book for the children based on SOM's "Back to School" theme, If You Take a Mouse to School, by Laura Numeroff. Rep. Weinstein engaged the audience in his reading, asking questions and soliciting responses from the children.

Forty children and parents enjoyed the program, including Rep. Weinstein's wife, son, and grandson, and SOM put out the welcome mat for him and his family to return anytime.

Pat Dowdell, children's LA, and Rep. Weinstein are pictured right, clapping along to the opening song before he read to the children.

Does your library have a legislator to read at Storytime yet?

Three from Main Library Promote

The Main Library had reason to celebrate, August 25, because Circulation's Tricia Larrabee (left center), Teen's Robert Moseley, and Popular/Fiction's Donna Peretzman--all Library Assistants--will be promoted and report in their new positions, August 29, 2011.

Tricia and Robert will be Clerical Supervisors. At University Park Branch, Tricia will report to Michael Rouse, Branch Manager. At Mandarin Branch, Robert will report to Cheryl Callavini, Branch Manager. Donna will remain at Main as JPL's E-Specialist under the supervision of Mark Hohnadel, Librarian Senior in Reference & Periodicals.

Main's Circulation, Popular, and Teen department employees gathered together and served a celebratory cake as they wished these three the very best in their new positions.

Congratulations from the rest of us, too, Tricia, Robert, and Donna.

FJPL's 2nd Book Warehouse Sale, 9/23-25/11

The Friends of JPL recently held their first Book Warehouse Sale. It was so successful that another three-day sale has been scheduled for 5 pm-8 pm, Friday, September 23; 9 am-5 pm, Saturday, September 24; and 12 pm-5 pm, Sunday, September 25, 2011. Customers can purchase one or more books or a brown bag full for $10; bags will be provided by FJPL.

Talk up the sale to JPL customers and tell them FJPL's warehouse is located at the far right side of University Park Branch Library, 3435 University Boulevard North, just north of Jacksonville University.

Since it has become impossible to schedule a sale at the fairgrounds, FJPL may replace the Great Jacksonville Book Sales at the fairgrounds with Book Warehouse Sales in their UPK warehouse. Additionally, FJPL President Harry Reagan says this would save the hard work of moving thousands of books to the fairgrounds, as well as the expenses of renting space, trailers to haul books, etc.

JPL + Partnerships = Win Win

August 6 was a Night to Remember dance for fathers, volunteer “dads”, and daughters ages 4-16. Denise Kirkland, JPL’s Literacy Specialist, chaired a committee made up of many local partnering organizations and businesses, which sponsored several events culminating in a dance in the Brentwood Lake Community Center. (Brentwood Branch Library hosted the first event, Saturday Explosion, May 21, which advertised the upcoming events and dance; click on the “NS” label to the right for the June 8 JPL Staff News article.)

Prior to the father/daughter dance, a slumber party was held for the girls, June 23; then a dance dress fitting, July 16, followed by a character building program for dads and daughters, July 23, and an etiquette and ball room dancing rehearsal, July 30.

For the dance, each dad received a tuxedo, shoes, tie and vest for $40 (based on financial need) from Men’s Wearhouse. The girls were fitted by a local gown shop owner who donated brand new gowns, valued from $60 - $300. Sweet Tomatoes donated salads for the etiquette class and each girl could, as instructed, arrange a proper place setting for a formal dinner. The tables were set with white linen, a lovely dinner and desert were served, and the room was tastefully decorated.

Donated door prizes for the dance included a weekend stay for four at the Comfort End Suites & Hotels, Disney Park passes for four, and a $50 K-Mart gift card. Sally Industries provided an enchanted mural. Each girl received a bag of goodies, including a necklace and earring set from Dignity You Wear.

Beside the Jacksonville Public Library, A Night to Remember father/daughter dance was also made possible by the special efforts of: JHA, Lea’s Place, Magnolia Project, Department of Children and Families, NFL Yet Center/Boys and Girls Club, Greggs AME Temple Church, War on Poverty, Moncrief Road CDC and partial funding by the U.S. Department of HUD Community Development Block Grant Program.

This dance was covered in the Sunday Metro section of The Florida Times-Union, August 7, 2011, describing how many hands made memorable moments for 24 misses—and their dads.

CM Schellenberg Reads at SOM Storytime

City Councilman Matt Schellenberg visited the South Mandarin Library on Friday, August 12, 2011, for an all-ages Family Storytime. He read two books for the children: Jack's New Boat, by Sarah McMenemy, and Boats for Bedtime, by Olga Litowinsky. He originally planned to read one book, but graciously read two books for the 22 children and parents who attended the program.

During the storytime, he shared his experiences as a child boating with his friend and encouraged the children to share their stories as well. Customers and staff had a great storytime with their special visitor, and although a future date has not been set, CM Schellenberg was invited back to SOM.

Kudios from Customers

Main Library – Popular & Fiction: “Thanks to Karren Deas and Matthew (Moyer) for a wonderful teaching job.”

Main Library – Teen: “I heart Mia (Clark). She is the best.”

Regency Square Branch: “I just wanted to mention an exemplary person working for the Regency Branch ... Elaine Aspinwall. In the years that I have enjoyed … your library system, Elaine has been the second person to recognize me by name every time that I visit Regency. She always welcomes me when I am there and never hesitates to go out of her way to help me in any way she can. You may get many good comments on employees, but you truly have a gem in this lady. She is truly an exceptional representative for your system.”

University Park Branch: “…While visiting the library, I am treated with kindness and respect and am always the recipient of excellent service by Ms. (Gail) Midon. …Her professional approach made me take note of the caliber of employee that she is. She is always courteous and helpful and real in her concerns …”

Westbrook Branch: “… Utilizing the library as a safe place, in my opinion, has increased my daughter’s appreciation for reading, comprehension, and social interaction. Being at the library with Beatrice Kungu, Tia Samuels, and Kim McTeer has proven to me that there are adults who care about the well being of my child and countless other children that utilize the library as a safe place after school. The care and concern that the Dynamic Trio at Westbrook offers positive influence with the use of digital media, books and social interaction for individuals like my daughter…”

Beaches Branch Displays Fine Watercolors

Pat Doyle, Beaches Branch Manager (seated right in picture to left), sent in these photos and stated that Chen Qitao, who is a well known artist in China, is currently exhibiting his watercolors at the Beaches Branch. (The young lady is one of JB's customers and works at Michaels. She helped Mr. Qitao mount his work for this display.)

Mr. Chen came in Pat Doyle's office (pictureto right) to see the needlework that her mother did when she lived in the Florida Keys. Mr. Y. M. Lin was Mr. Chen’s spokesperson and took these photos. Double click on the picture and see the enlarged version; Pat's mother was an excellent craftswoman/artist.

If you have not seen this exhibit, it is well worth the trip to the Beaches Branch to enjoy the beautiful array of watercolors Mr. Qitao has graciously loaned to the library.

Two At Main Library Receive Their MLIS Degrees

Kaity Barrand, Library Associate Sr. in Main's Teen Department, gives us a brief tour of her journey to earning her MLIS: "I began my degree with FSU’s MLIS program in August 2009, and took two classes a semester at first while I was working full time at UNF. I left my position there to study full time, which I did until beginning my full time position here at Main this past November, which for me necessitated dropping back down to part time study for my remaining two semesters in the program. While volunteering and then shelving at the Southeast Branch, I realized that I had a passion for children’s and youth services and began tailoring my degree to this specialization. JPL has been a fantastically supportive and inspiring environment in which to pursue my degree. I graduated Saturday, August 5, in the Tallahassee Civic Center with my MLIS and, boy, did it feel great! JPL has been a fantastically supportive and inspiring environment in which to pursue my degree, so many thanks to you all!

And Eric Daniel Soriano, Library Associate in Main's E-Library, shares his trek towards his MLIS: "USF's Summer 2011 commencement ceremony was held August 6, 20111, at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa FL. It took me a little less than two years to finish the degree. I started during the fall semester of 2009 when I was still at San Marco Branch and took two or three classes per semester. This is my second Master's Degree, the first one being in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. I appreciate all the support and encouragement from my JPL family, especially colleagues from SS and Main.

All of us at JPL congratulate Kaity and Eric on their milestones to success.

SOM's 24,605 Beads Mean Kids READ!

SOM held its end of summer program, August 10, 2011, and 85 kids and parents had a wonderful time. The kids ate ice cream, made boomerangs, and played hopscotch--American and French versions--as well as Branch Manager Ed Murray (right). In keeping with the "One World, Many Stories" SLP theme, customers were asked to choose their favorite place to visit and Paris was the winner.

Remember the "globe" jar pictured on this blog, July 19, and kids were to drop a bead in the jar each time they read a book? Well, the "globe" now contains 24,605 beads! During the program the kids guessed how many beads were in the globe; the two closest numbers chosen were 9,000 and 10,000 beads.

SOM employees know how to get into a theme and Tracy O'Sullivan, left in a glamorous mask, Anne Clement, center, and Angela Richman and her daughter, Amy, donned sombreros for the event.

Three cheers for South Mandarin Branch staff for all those programs that attracted so many kids to the library to READ, READ, READ.

CW Spins a Webb of Summer Library Programs

Webb Wesconnett Branch had an array of Summer Library Programs to entrance children. On June 11, the Gator City Jacksonville clowns (pictured top left) offered face painting, clown skits, and balloon animals for the 160 in attendance.

On July 13, 90 customers celebrated CW's theme, Tropical and Christmas, and enjoyed snow cones, sugar cookies, games, presents, Christmas songs and movies. CW topped it off with a visit from Santa Claus (starring Eric
Simmons, Library Clerk) and each
child received a book.

Laurie Mills, Library Associate (center, top pic on right), designed a
Pirate Scavenger Hunt for July 20 and had 92 attend. Kids enjoyed
dressing like pirates and searching the library
for treasures.

Ronald McDonald (second pic down on right) visited on July 26 and, as usual, this program was popular--96 fans came to see Mr. McD.



Then Junie B. Jones, played by Jessica Serrano, Library Associate (bottom left photo), entertained 18 kids on
August 2.

"One World, Many Stories" at Webb Wesconnett Branch

For eight weeks during the summer, Webb Wesconnett Branch decorated their children’s reference desk each week in themes representing different countries corresponding with the summer reading theme, "One World, Many Stories": Mexico (right), Brazil's rain forest, Egypt ( left), Australia's coral reefs, Hawaii, USA, Holland, Russia, and China. To set the mood, staff played movies and made book displays depicting the country of the week. Children had to get their passports stamped each week for the different countries they visited.

JPL Is Noticed By Avant-Garde

Mark Hohnadel, Librarian Senior in Reference at the Main Library, contributed input for an interesting article written by Casey Ayers entitled "How Jacksonville's Libraries Help Entrepreneurs Succeed", posted in One Spark, a website/blog, August 2. Thanks to Richard Mott, Manager of Strategic Initiatives, for forwarding this information and URL to us:

http://bit.ly/nkuqdU

Staff Profile

Sharon Jaskula, Center for Adult Learning’s (CAL) Program Manager, was highly recommended for this position by Jean Brinkman, who headed this department prior to her retirement in 1995 and recognized Sharon’s capabilities.

Deputy Director Carolyn Williams now supervises Sharon, and had this to say, “Through her commitment and dedication, Sharon Jaskula and the CAL staff have maintained a literacy program that is recognized across the state and by national organizations.”

Sharon’s progressive success is predicated by a determination to make this a better city and she realizes it can only be done one human being at a time.

Q: How long has CAL been a part of the JPL system and how does it differ from the rest of the library system?

A: CAL opened in 1985 as a grant-funded adult literacy program. While many library programs are planned as single events or a short series of workshops, learning to read and/or speak English takes a long time. Many of the customers who enroll in CAL stay with us for several years before they reach their goals. Our responsibilities are very different from those of most JPL employees; during the course of a day we are testing, interviewing, and teaching adult learners or volunteer tutors. While we’re committed to helping our customers become regular library users by introducing them to JPL resources, most of us have never been on the other side of the counter. If I had to spend 15 minutes behind the Circ desk, I would be totally lost and scared to death. Pharos? Sirsi? Workflows? I just try to look like I know what you guys are talking about!

Q: What are some of the outstanding accomplishments CAL has experienced this year?

A: There’s a lot that we’re proud of this year. We have a new role in serving refugees, particularly Cuban refugees being resettled by World Relief. Two of our instructors (Katie Bark and Flory Martinez) are involved in a Cultural Orientation piece being hosted at the Main Library for refugees who are recent arrivals. Some of these families have been in the U.S. less than a week and are already using the public library as a source of information and support. We’ve seen people cry when they realize they can communicate with friends and family members they left behind using a library computer and a free e-mail account.

I’m also very proud of one student in particular and JPL’s relationship with him. Kevin Trego was formerly a homeless library “regular” who passed an HVAC program at the college, became an apprentice in the field, and now has his own apartment. He was helped by CAL and several other educational/social service programs along the way. He never would have known about these resources had it not been for librarian Peggy Glasnapp who saw Kevin struggling to read and study on his own. Kevin gives Peggy all the credit for pointing him in the right direction and connecting him to the resources he needed.

Q: How does CAL work with other similar agencies in Duval County and how does that benefit CAL/JPL?

A: CAL maintains relationships with social service agencies and other adult education providers to facilitate referrals to the program. In the past, large numbers of students transitioned back and forth between CAL and Learn to Read as their needs changed; now Learn to Read is headquartered with CAL at Main. It’s been a challenge for both programs to learn to function in the same space, but humor and a commitment to a “greater cause” has turned this into an effective one-stop literacy center (and very little blood was shed in the process)! More than 1,000 students are served by CAL and Learn to Read each year. We are also working on a tutor-training piece that may be used by the Duval County Public Schools to prepare volunteers, mentors, and parents to teach kids to read. It would be very rewarding to play a part in preventing reading problems in children before they become disheartened adults.

Q: What is your history with CAL?

A: When I first applied for a teaching position with CAL in 1987, I didn’t get that job. It was one of my first interviews and I was not adept at that. Fortunately, after Jean Brinkman interviewed me, she directed me to a vacant part-time clerical position in Community Relations. I typed PSA’s and created program flyers from scratch (clip art didn’t exist, so we had to letter and illustrate each one by hand!) The two of us in Community Relations also handled a lot of the Director’s correspondence to board members and the City Council, which was an interesting introduction to the politics behind the library system. Later that year, another position opened in CAL and I was invited to reapply. What started as a teaching position, eventually led to grant writing, project management, and curriculum development. Then Mrs. Brinkman recommended me for this position when she retired and I have held it for the last 16 years. While every job has its good and bad days, I think this position is a good fit for me.

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

A: I’m a “Navy brat” who was fortunate enough to live with my family in places like Sicily and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. My first paid job was picking up rocks, bolts, and other debris from a military airfield during the summer monsoon season to make sure things didn’t get sucked into jet engines. I much prefer an air-conditioned library. Over the past twelve years I’ve written and secured more than $840,000 in grant funding for the library, so when I reach that million dollar mark I expect to see Carolyn Williams standing there with a box of Krispy Kremes just for me (and she can’t retire until then)! I have a mail order husband (I met Brad Jaskula online) and we were married five years ago in the Main Library’s Conference Center--all beautifully orchestrated by our good friend, Will Daniels.

An Emergency Check List

Have you looked at the POD list Robbie Tiedeman, Facilities Manager, emailed to staff in his "JPL Main" memo & attachment, June 3, 2011, and know where your POD location is so you can report to duty in an emergency, if required? Do you have that address memorized or written down so you know exactly how to get there using the shortest route?

Do you know if you are in a flood zone? Try this site: http://maps.coj.net/jaxgis/

Do you know where to find storm weather information quickly? Scroll down your JPL Staff News blog and on the right side, under the "Jacksonville Links" gadget, click on sun/cloud icon, then click on "Severe Weather". To find out about Tropical Storm Emily, for instance, click on "Tropical & Hurricane"; then scroll down & select how you want to look at Tropical Storm Emily--tracking map, public advisory, etc.

Helpful planning information can be found in the "Hurricane Planning Guide", published by the City's Emergency Preparedness Division, and review The Florida Times-Union's "Storm Watch" for suggestions on supply kit checklists, protecting your home, shelter information and evacuation routes.

SLP Attendance Breaks Record at Urban Library Centers

Julie Lipschutz, Libararian, reports the Summer Library Program is a great success in the Urban Library Centers this summer.

Top left, Christie Rogers, Library Associate, reads a story to some school age children during her program, "Hello Hawaii" recently held at Westbrook Branch.

Top right, third graders are reading together at the Northshore Book Club, run by Librarian Julie Lipschutz. at Northshore Team Up's summer camp.

Lower left, kids enjoy 15 minutes of solo reading time at the end of every school-age program at Westbrook Branch Library.

And lower right is a mother and her two children reading together at Graham Branch's weekly Family Preschool Storytime.

Combined Florida Library Youth Program attendance at Graham, Eastside, and Westbrook Branches--thus far--has increased 65% over 2009, the most recent year of full summer programming at these locations.

WOW! What a summer!