Mayor Brown & Other Dignitaries At JPL Partnership Event

On Saturday, March 31, 2012,  Mayor Alvin Brown and Library Supervisor Marshelle Berry posed for a quick photo at the Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Shiloh Outreach Center where they both served as guest speakers. Under Mrs. Berry’s leadership, JPL Urban Library Centers will partner with the Outreach Center in serving the community.

Library Associate Anthony Williams also made numerous community contacts as he manned a library information table at the event. Other attendees included EWC President Nat Glover and Congresswoman Corrine Brown.

ONE in THREE Exhibit at Pablo Creek

The ONE in THREE exhibit lifts the faces and stories of 20 current and former Duval County Public School students through dramatic portraits by photographer Ingrid Damiani. Their stories demonstrate the power of an engaged community that works ONE by ONE to ensure that all students are successful in school. They show the need for every person in our city to get involved in public education. In their eyes, you will find no despair—only hope. Branch Manager Carol Bailey welcomes you to enjoy this exhibit at Pablo Creek Branch Library, April 2-26 , and it can be seen at Sandalwood High School during this time.

Pablo Creek Is Art Smart

Pablo Creek Branch Library is teeming with the artwork of some of Jacksonville's most talented people.  At top right is their current exhibit of the members of First Coast Porcelain Artists .

Lower right is Wild Birds: Acrylic Paintings by Fine Artist and Painting Instructor Anthony Whiting.  This exhibit includes 13 gorgeous, colorful acrylic paintings and can be viewed during April.  Give your eyes a treat; everyone is invited.

For a larger view, click on the individual picture.

What Does Art Have To Do With Pre-Reading Skills?

Pablo Creek Branch joins libraries across the country, teaming up with parents and caregivers to foster the skills needed for reading success! The Every Child Ready to Read initiative has identified five key areas of early reading skills that are indicators of future reading success: Talking, Singing, Reading, Writing, and Playing.  PCR uses ALL of these developmental skills at the library in their story times and family programs. Artwork featured in PCR's Children’s lobby showcase was created in the Family Art Time Program at PCR, demonstrating how children can learn pre-reading skills through drawing and writing activities.

Innovator Awards Are Special

For three months, Innovator Awards have been given to nominated JPL staff.  You could be the next employee to receive this award.  You will be hearing more about Innovation Awards soon, and to whet your appetite, above are pictured two happy recipients, Librarians David Fuller (top left pic) and Jeff Geiger. 

Why did they receive an Innovator Award?  Patricia Morrison, Main's Special Collections Supervisor, said, "On April 2, 2012, the 1940 Federal Census will be released to the public.  This is a widely anticipated event in the genealogy world, one that occurs 72 years after the Census is taken. The 1940 Census will not be indexed immediately upon release and will require specific search strategies to ensure success.  In anticipation of the kinds of problems and roadblocks our staff and our customers might encounter, David, Jeff and two of our volunteers--Patricia McCullough and Pam Gibson--began researching and writing pathfinders and brochures, and planned two classes for the public. This initiative began with a conversation David had with two of our volunteers and grew to include assistance from other JPL departments (Training and CR&M) to produce the course material and promotional material.  Kudos to David and Jeff for anticipating what was needed and acting to ensure we are prepared."

Friends of JB Book Sale

Friends of the Beaches Branch Used Book Sale will be held at Beaches Branch Library, 600 3rd St., Neptune Beach:

Thursday, April 26 - 5-7 pm - members only BUT nonmembers can join FOBL opening night.
Friday & Saturday - April 27-28 - 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday April 29 - 1-4 pm

The Beaches Friends Book Sales could be just what your customers are looking for, so please let them know.

Murray Hill Friends Sign Up 70 at MH Branch

Helene Kamps-Stewart of the Murray Hill Friends of JPL reports that during the week of March 19 that they "...registerered 70 people in 6 days for MHFOJPL outside the Murray Hill Library, and most were new members!  We feel that it was a successful outreach. For those who didn't sign up, we at least spread the word and let folks know that we exist!"

Congratulations to all of you; JPL needs all the Friends we can get and we appreciate your hard work.

Spring Is Not Late This Year

You may recall that San Marco Library had to have most of their oaks removed in front and it looked a bit bare.  On Florida's Arbor Day, Winged Elms were planted and with the addition of their LaSalle Bioswale water system that filters rainwater (the first in Jacksonville), Bald Cypress trees (left) were also planted.  Spring has recently seen all the replacement trees sprouting beautifully--giving SS new "curb appeal".

SOM Teen Dept. Continues '60's Focus

Shedriek Battle (pictured right), South Mandarin Branch's Teen Library Associate and Library Associate Lily Waller continued South Mandarin's focus on the'60s , March 21, with a 3 1/2 hour "Celebrate the 60's!" program attended by 65 people.  The exhibit highlighted1960's art, culture and history.

South Mandarin Branch Zooms Back to the '60's

Councilman Stephen Joost, his family, and all those who wanted to zoom back to a volatile decade did so at South Mandarin Branch children's staff's "Spring Into the 1960s" program, March 20.  Pictures and library materials capturing the many changes of that decade--Vietnam, the civil rights movement, JFK & RFK, the Cuban crisis, the flower children; and go-go boots, wild prints, and the peace symbol were everywhere. 

Children and adults played Twister, made “pop art", hula hooped, and danced to the music of the 60s (remember the Watusi, the Twist, and the Monkey?) Whatta a decade and whatta great time the 40 participating customers had!

At top is SOM's display, and the children’s staff includes (L/R) Anne Clement, Pat Dowdell, Angela Richman, and Tracy O'Sullivan.

Movers and Shakers

Librarians Matthew Moyer (Popular/Fiction Department, Main Library) and Andrew Coulon (Support Services/ILS) had this joint response to their awards received recently from the Library Journal, "It's humbling to be recognized for the Movers and Shakers awards in the "Innovator" category.  We just want to thank everyone we have worked with on these projects and our supervisors for their incredible patience and enthusiasm.  It has been a privilege to be able to use our personal talents and expertise in the library."

Mardi Gras at Webb Wesconnett

Webb Wesconnett Branch recently had a Mardi Gras float contest and 72 adults and kids attended the program.  They dressed in Mardi Gras garb and paraded shoe box floats. Refreshments and prizes, including MP3 players, were awarded.

Old Crayons = New Learning Tool at CW's Art for Early Literacy

Elizabeth McConney (pictured right with kids' art) has a new Friday preschoolers class, Art for Early Literacy, and has had about 25 attend each class.  Children have  the opportunity to play with collage, make play-dough sculptures, fingerpaint, feed a monster, learn to mix colors and play some guessing games.  Ms. McConey also uses her newly-minted lego crayons. Using broken crayons, a silicone candy mould and her toaster, she repurposed old supplies. The lego crayons will be used by the children to learn about the quality of lines, making a collage, building with play dough and playing a shape matching game.

Kudos from Customers

Highlands Branch: “…I would like to show my appreciation to Ms. (Kathleen) Brunner for doing everything she could to help me find a book for my report and even grab a DVD after I could not locate it. It was very important to me …”

Main Library – Janitorial Staff: “...the janitorial people were really professional and were doing a great and thorough job. They kept the glass clean and the bathrooms clean. ... The window washer`s name was James (Holden). The entire staff was very helpful and courteous”

Southeast Branch: “These are donations to the library in gratitude for your help resolving an issue with a returned DVD that was missing. Special thanks to Debra Wainwright and Lynne Baldwin for their help. …”

University Park Branch: “…Marlin Day, Mina Figuerrez, Gail Midon, Kim Hamilton, Leona Cain and Mary Calcagni are terrific library professionals. They are always available to assist everyone to use the library's books, materials, and facilities more effectively. They are always generous. ...”

Webb Wesconnett Branch: “Carol Bunker was very helpful and quite competent at explaining self-check and other questions I had regarding videos, books, and computer use. She's great!”

Prime Time at Highlands Branch

Kathy Tekin, Youth Services Coordinator, said, "We had eleven families, or 33 individuals on average, attend the Prime Time Family Reading Time winter sessions on Thursdays, February 2 - March 8, 2012, at Highlands Regional Branch Library. 

"Scholar Elizabeth Furdell and Storyteller Debra Keels engaged children and parents in discussing the books. We served meals provided by Ashley Street Catering for the eleven families who attended the six week program. Emily Gideon and Tenesha Anderson made reminder calls, greeted the families and made sure they had their books for the next week and entered the door prize drawings. Beverly Mason and Donna Thomas made sure the preschool set had a fun time as well with stories and crafts that related to the theme the older children and parents were sharing in the bigger group.

"We received comments from parents that their children were doing better in school and they were asking their children more questions about what they were reading. Everyone was sad to see this very successful program come to an end. Our next library location for Prime Time will be Graham Branch Library in late April and May."

News from the Friends of JPL

Sharon Sutherland, Executive Director of the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library, reports their first Book Warehouse Sale of the year, March 2-4 & March 10, garnered over $29,000 in sales and memberships.

Please remember to spread the word:   FJPL is open for shopping at the University Park Branch Library, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings, 9 - Noon.

Friends' BOOKtique is currently offering a sale on fiction--Buy One/Get One Free and 20% off select gift items.

BOOKtique has the Great Decisions 2012 book available for those attending the Library's Discussion Program that started in February and ends in May.

The Jax Reads book, The Things They Carried, that will be featured March 26 - April 26, will be available at the BOOKtique for $14.95, and they will be available to sell the book during the program at FSCJ's Wilson Center, March 30.

GOOD BUY: FJPL offers membership to library staff for only $5 for individuals and $12.50 for families.

Talent--We Have Talent--Lots & Lots of Talent

Mandarin Branch hosted the Art Guild of Orange Park art show and reception, Saturday, March 3--and what talent there was on display as you can see from these two examples.  Don't you wish you had been there?

New Generation of Artists at SE

SE Library Assistant Paul Schaffner has been creating excellent crafts for preschoolers for five years. His current “Mr. Paul’s Painting Program”, kicked off in February 2012, has educated and entertained 100+ kids between the ages of 2-6 on Wednesdays at 1:30 and continues to attract aspiring artists. The theme of the program is, “Release your inner artist.”

Children enjoy painting free style with Mr. Paul. They have fun sharing paint and brushes with the other kids and expressing their individual talents, without their parents’ help. (Parents not only appreciate their children's art work, they get the benefits of washable paint!)

Mr. Paul honored his budding artists by creating an exhibit of their work at SE, and everyone is invited to see it.  Your customers can bring their kids to the program or just feast their eyes. Paul could be nurturing the next Matisse, Renoir, or someone who could start a whole new series of art styles as the great Picasso did.

JB Weeds & Revamps for the Future

Beaches Branch Manager Pat Doyle says the “weeding team”, organized by Charlene Adkins, did a “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” job at JB on Sunday morning, March 11. They succeeded in weeding, withdrawing and boxing up more than 3400 items!  Now JB will weed the remaining lists they have and remove three rows of shelving.  Then they will relocate (and eventually eliminate) the paperback spinners and convert that room into a “laptop” room because it has five outlets, and  carrels and tables will be provided for customers to plug in their laptops.

Self-check Usage Up 137% at UPK

 University Park Branch Manager Marlin Day reports they started their self-check promotion last November (Michael Rouse was manager then) and at the end of January UPK's self-check usage increased from 19,217 last fiscal year to 45,555 this fiscal year, reflecting an increase of 137%! UPK self-check users can put their names on a self-check award winner sticker (shown at top leftt) and then these are posted on a board, letting other customers know that they are a "reward winning self-check user". UPK also started other promotions in March.

Waste Not/Want Not

All areas currently served by Southland Waste Systems (Republic Services), including some 71,000 residences in Arlington, Mayport, and the Northside will soon convert to automated collection of household waste and recycling.  The new waste management system is the wave of Jacksonville's future and this initiative is expected to save the City $500,000/year in fuel savings and the new single-stream recycling method, which eliminates the need for customers to sort recyclables, should improve current recycling by 50% and is expected to increase annual revenues to the City by an additional $500,000.  This method brings Jacksonville closer to achieving state mandated goals that require 75% of household waste to be recycled by 2020.  These residents are getting two new, free 96-gallon trash cans (one for trash and one for recyclables) beginning this June.  These trash cans will improve curbside aesthetics because they hold more (the equivalent of three large garbage cans) and have tight fitting lids that will eliminate vermin-related issues. Customers can contact Andy Barker, Operations Manager for Southland’s Jacksonville Division, telephone: 904-350-8118, or email: ABarker@RepublicServices.com.University Park and Regency Square Branches have the new trash cans on display for a limited time. 

Helping People Get Jobs

Brown Eastside Branch Library hosted three consecutive Community Resource & Career Workshops recently in preparation for the job fair at the Main Library, March 6.  On February 27, Jacksonville Urban League facilitated the first workshop where people learned how to prepare for the job fair.  WorkSource staff assisted attendees with resume building, February 28, and on February 29, Peggy Johnson of the Petunia Patch Boutique and Maternity did a workshop on how to dress for the career fair. The goal of the workshops was to help people better their chances of getting a job interview at the JPL Community Resource and Career Fair and look their best for any job interview.  EB had about 25 people attend the three day workshops.

Spring Forward On March 11

Daylight Saving time begins at midnight this Sunday, March 11, 2012.  You get an hour of extra sleep--or an extra hour to do whatever it usually takes you to do in one hour.

In the Pink

Mandarin Branch's Teen Coordinator, Don Carpenter, honored his word to teens at his branch and his hair turned PINK.  Why?  Well, click here and find out:  http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/496425/sandy-strickland/2012-03-06/book-deadline-passes-so-his-hair-turns-pink

Job Fair at Main Library Scores Big

Ava Barrett, Main Library Administrative Supervisor, had this to report on the Job Fair held at the Main Library, March 6:  "It was a resounding success! The employers all reported being very pleased with the response and quality of the candidates and the candidates reported satisfaction with the vendors. Total registered candidates: 404. All workshops were full to capacity and WorkSource had lines of people waiting to go in for assistance with resumes or applications. Two companies actually hired on the spot and others told me they had collected some very good prospects. Everyone says it was a resounding success. Our Job Resource Guide was very popular and ran out quickly.  I am really pleased with the outcome of all our hard work."

Thank you to Library Board Trustee Rita Cannon for introducing Councilman Don Redman to speak at this event.  Partners included FSCJ, The Chamber of Commerce, WORKSource, and more than a dozen employers looking for workers.  At least two employers were hiring on the spot.  Free workshops on resume writing, networking and interviewing were offered by area experts.

Staff Profile

Randy Mapanoo started his career with JPL as a Library Clerk at Pablo Creek Branch in January 2010, and then promoted to Library Associate at Southeast Branch in March 2011. Slated for a demotion if the 15% budget cuts had taken effect FY2012, and still on probation, he pursued a project that would, if successful, give him some job security. He also knew his efforts could serve a real need at SE, educate customers, and be a draw for the library.

Southeast Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin said, “Randy Mapanoo exhibited these Destination Leadership practices in creating his E-reader presentation: Modeling the Way, Challenging the Process, Enabling Others to Act, Encouraging the Heart and Inspiring a Shared Vision when he used his E-Reader presentation as an example of the need for customer training on JPL electronic resources…” His diligent research and study did indeed result in a successful, popular E-reader class, and Randy is now the “go to” person at SE when customers or employees have E-reader questions. It is no wonder he received both the Employee of the Quarter and Challenge the Process awards for the first quarter of  FY2012.

From these Q&A’s you can see how Randy progressed and covered so many aspects of Destination Leadership to develop an effective E-Reader class.

Q: What did you do to propose and prepare yourself to make the first E-reader presentation at SE?

A: I saw the need for organized training in a group setting because many customers were asking for assistance with their E-readers and other electronic devices and resources. With approval from my direct supervisor, Bob Silkett, and Lynne Baldwin, I then discussed my plans for the E-reader training class with Overdrive expert E-Specialist Donna Peretzman. By taking online training on electronic resources and borrowing a variety of readers from ILS, I learned how each reader worked. I also spoke with staff at the Overdrive Resource Center to learn specific aspects of the program. Then I scheduled individual training times for customers and staff and continued to talk to customers about their technology needs and how our branch could help them.

Q: Did you set a goal as to when you would present the first E-reader training class?

A: My goal of creating and presenting this class was to have it in the first quarter of FY12, and the first class was scheduled for December 14, 2011. I completed my training and research and then created the PowerPoint presentation in time to meet my goal.

Q: Your project obviously needed the cooperation of staff in other areas; how did that transpire?

A: I borrowed a variety of E-readers from ILS. Community Relations and Marketing staff worked with me on promoting the project. Flyers were made and the large sign Wally Bowden made was the first thing customers saw when they entered SE. I requested that program information be posted on the SE plasma screen, on our home page rotating screen and on the branch’s blog. Fellow SE staff also assisted with promoting this project to customers and a registration sheet was placed at the reference desk.

Q: What is your overall view of the first E-reader training class and subsequent classes?

A: I made training handouts for customers and believed this to be a valid experiment. From that first class, we could see any kinks in the program, use customer feedback and my experience in training to develop better programs for the future. The work paid off and the first class was a big success. Thirty plus customers attended on December 14—just in time for Christmas.

The second class, February 13, had 39 people attend with the same positive results: customers are being educated in new technology and Southeast Branch is developing its 21st century customer base. Using my presentation as an example of the need for customer training on JPL electronic resources, SE Librarian and new Adult Programming Coordinator Jeremy Hall is working on creating additional training for customers. Seeing the need for a separate training space, Lynne Baldwin is working with Administrative Supervisor Donna Riegel and SST Manager Gretchen Mitchell to create an electronic classroom at SE.

Q: What fun things do you like to do in your spare time?

A: I love to read and finally found time to do so again last month. I just finished The Imperfectionists, by Tom Rachmann, and enjoyed it. I also am starting to enjoy cooking more. I used to see it as just a chore, but I am beginning to appreciate it as I get better. I can’t say I’m good yet, but having fun is a start!

S.S.H. at Mandarin Branch - Shoo Teens There

S.S.H., or Students Suddenly Heard, is an event planned for teens, ages 11-18, to audition at Mandarin Branch for a variety show to be held at a later date.  Mandarin's Teen Coordinator, Don Carpenter, had a popular open mic event last summer and is planning another soon that will have a different twist.  He invites other JPL's to extend this invitation to their teens.  He is seeking actors and writers for MC and sketch comedy, dancers, musicians, magicians, jugglers, artists of all varieties and anyone else who thinks he/she can contribute to what will be a fabulous show.

Hooray for Elaine Randolph

South Mandarin Branch Manager Ed Murray nominated Elaine Randolph, Librarian Senior, for the newly implemented Innovation Award because he thought her Valentine Day display was"timely and fun".  Ms. Randolph became the first employee to win this award, and Library Director Barbara Gubbin was present when she received it on February 29.

Ms. Gubbin also submitted this picture and wanted all to see how well Ms. Randolph promoted Cupid and SOM's collection of materials.  (Please click on photo for larger view.)

A Good Way to Serve, Promote JPL, & Have Fun

Any sports fans out there? Tracy O’Sullivan, Library Associate at SOM, is also President of the Gator Club of Jacksonville, a division of the University of Florida's Alumni Association.  There are several SEC and other university alumni groups in Jacksonville that can be found on the Internet, and Tracy has found it is a good way to meet fellow alumni and make new friends. Maybe your alma mater has a local alumni and friends group that you could join.

Tracy has been involved with the Gator Club since she graduated from the University of Florida, and says, “I am very honored and proud to be a leader for the Gator Nation.” On February 2, she attended an award ceremony in Gainesville on behalf of the Gator Club of Jacksonville. The work Tracy and other club members did this past year earned the Jacksonville Club three awards--the most given to any club that night. The awards were for Best Young Alumni Leader, Best Young Alumni Event in the State of Florida, and Most Improved Gator Club in the State of Florida. The local Gator Club is just one of a hundred Gator Clubs around the world. In Jacksonville alone, there are over 10,000 Gator Alumni graduates.  She helps raise money for student scholarships and bring Gator alumni and friends together.  To view photos from the award ceremony, click here:  http://www.jaxgatorclub.com/.

SOM Knows What To Do W/Spring Break

The Children are coming! The Children are coming! Duval County Public Schools Spring Break, March 17 - 25, is just around the corner.  All kids and teens are welcome at these South Mandarin Branch programs:

• 6 pm, Monday, March 19 – Board Game Battle  – Battle against your friends for bragging rights.
• 3 pm, Tuesday, March 20 – Spring into the 1960’s – Dude, we'll host a cool blast to the past.
• 2 pm, Wednesday, March 21 – Celebrate the '60’s Book and Music Exhibit – Teens check it out, man, moving and grooving to top music and books of the 60’s.
• 3 pm, Thursday, March 22 – LEGOs in the Library – Building party (blocks donated by our patrons.)
• 3 pm, Saturday, March 24 – No Batteries Required! – Puzzles and games.

First To Receive JPL Innovator Award

Librarian Senior Elaine Randolph was South Mandarin's first recipient of the JPL Innovator Award.  Elaine created an impromptu "Valentine's Day" display in multiple formats, which included romance novels, dating guides, romantic comedies on DVD, and mood music on CD.  The display was a small sensation and generated much interest!

Please Note:  Other Innovation Award winners will be posted on this blog soon!

Kudos from Customers

Highlands Branch: “The staff at the checkout counter (Michelle DuBois, Tyhedra Wilson, Dana Curry, Corey Scott, Felecia Battle, Barbara Fritz & Cheron Williams) is super friendly.”

Main – Florida Collection: “I am writing to express my thanks to the staff in the Florida Collection (Raymond Neal, Hazel Sutton, Andy Barmer, Margaret Morford, David Fuller, Cathy Currier, & Jeff Geiger). I traveled to Jacksonville...to do research ... Each staff member...was courteous, helpful, and patient. My many requests for microfilm were promptly filled and when I had problems with equipment they were right there to help. With their assistance, I was able to get a great deal of information. …”

Main – Reference & Periodicals: “Today's class was very good. Jason Eneox did a very good job. Thank you.”

Mandarin Branch: “I would like to thank the librarians that work in the children's area (Margo Crafton, David Foster, Elaine Roberson, Frances Wickes, Sarah Miller & Brittany Gonzales). My grandchildren are regular visitors to the library and I have seen first-hand how patient and helpful they are with children that are there to look for books, movies, etc. I am a Media Center assistant (18 years) and know how important it is to encourage young readers. ...”

Pablo Creek Branch: “The children's department... is excellent. I bring my 2 year old once a week to the family preschool program. She loves it and I love what she learns from it. It is wonderful that a craft is always available following the program. I consider this an important part of my daughter's early education. A special thank you to Ms. (Margaret) Crawford, Ms. (DeLon) Rowan and Ms. (Hongying) Song, who are always extremely friendly and call my daughter by name.”

Need a Better View of You?

If you want to improve your and/or your family's health, look and feel better?  You can click here to view Elizabeth McConney's PowerPoint presentation, Easy, Healthy Food Choices, which earned her the Model the Way Award for the first quarter of FY12.  The presentation, originally made to customers, can benefit all of us.  Ms. McConney compiled this presentation using the new USDA guidelines.  She is a part-time shelver at Webb Wesconnett Branch and Librarian Mia Brack, reported that Ms. McConney "saved the day" when she pinch-hit with this talk after a scheduled speaker could not keep her engagement.

JB's Sharon Whitt Has Computer Wit

Beaches Branch Library Associate Sharon Whitt recently tried a new way to answer customers’ questions. On February 15, 2012, from 1-3 p.m., she became a Computer Coach and made herself available for all computer related inquiries. During her two hour stint, she assisted eight customers and answered ten questions.  Sandra Ostroski, Librarian Senior, reported this venture and said management was very pleased with the responses customers gave to Ms. Whitt's first endeavor of this kind.  (Click on the picture for a larger view.)

First 2012 Friends Book Warehouse Sale

Harry Reagan, President of the Friends of JPL, advises, "We have scheduled our first Book Warehouse Sale of 2012 for March 2, 3, 4 & 10."  All JPL locations should now have flyers and bookmarks advertising the Sale, and all staff are asked to help promote it every chance they get.  Word of mouth is a very cost-effective means of advertising.

We hope to see you (and some of the people you’ve told or emailed) at the Sale.

Monthly Film Series @ WST: "To Kill A Mockingbird" - Feb. 21st, 2:30 PM

This year, Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird was chosen for the National Education Association's "Big Read." In support of that, the film version, starring Gregory Peck in his Oscar-winning portrayal of Atticus Finch, will be shown on Tuesday, Feb. 21st, at 2:30 PM, in the auditorium (that is, Community Room A).

There is no admission charge. Free popcorn and soda will be provided.

- EDL

Glenda Atkinson-Lewis Retires After 33 Years

Glenda Atkinson-Lewis was honored by the Library Board of Trustees on the date of her retirement, February 9, 2012, when the Board passed a Resolution honoring Glenda for her “33 years of outstanding service to the Jacksonville Public Library and the City of Jacksonville since May 1979…”

She began her career as a Clerk at the Charles Webb Wesconnett Branch, November 25, 1979, assisting with the initial setup of that library. Later she worked in the Bookmobile, Talking Books and other branches, then on to the Main Library’s Florida Collection, Genealogy, Circulation, Popular & Fiction and Children’s departments. She retires as a Library Assistant.

Glenda will be honored with a reception by JPL staff, 2:00 pm -4:00 pm, Friday, February 10, 2012, in the Main Library’s Conference level, Room G-4.

Glenda Lewis will be missed and all of us at JPL wish this lovely lady the very best in her new chapter of life.

Talking Books Volunteers Reach Milestones in February

Librarian Chris Eaton reports that our Talking Books Library volunteers have something to celebrate in February:

Mr. John Burrows and Mr. Charlie Perry of the Telecom Pioneers each have five years of volunteer service.

Mr. Robert Bronzo reached one year of volunteer service.

Ms. Cheryl Williams logged 1500 hours of volunteer service.

Thank you for making JPL's Talking Books a more effective, efficient department of the library system, Mr. Burrows, Mr. Perry, Mr. Bronzo and Ms. Williams.  We laud your accomplishments and sincerely appreciate all that you do.

Former JPL Volunteer, Virginia Campbell, Passes

Heather Campbell, Senior Librarian in Main's Popular and Fiction departments, informed us that her mother, Virginia Campbell, passed away January 25.  Mrs. Campbell worked in Ohio and Indiana as a Home Economics teacher. She later worked in Indianapolis, Indiana as a substitute teacher. 

Mrs. Campbell volunteered to go door to door collecting signatures for a petition to extend library services to all Marion County residents- something that only occurred after (following Jacksonville’s example) Indianapolis’ consolidation. Moving to Florida in 1968, she taught school as a full time teacher and as a substitute in Desoto and Charlotte counties. Later she served as an RSVP volunteer in hospitals and schools.

Mrs. Campbell volunteered in the old Main Library Literature and History Department when she visited Heather in Jacksonville from 2000-2003.  She moved to Jacksonville after Hurricane Charley destroyed her home in Punta Gorda, FL.  She volunteered in the Main Library Special Services Department from 2005-2008 when she stopped due to health concerns.  She compiled information packets for the former Books By Mail program, updated return labels with the new Main Library address, and helped update ILL reciprocity lists.  

Mrs. Campbell's final act of volunteerism was to donate her body to medical science.

Heather, we all send our sincere condolences in the loss of your mother and wish to express our sincere appreciation for all your mother did to help so many.

Raiford A. Brown Honored at EB

For Black History Month, the Brown Eastside Branch Library has set up a display in the main entrance honoring Raiford A. Brown.

Staff Profile

Marshelle Berry has been employed by JPL for 25 years. She was Branch Manager of Brentwood and Regency Square Branches before her recent assignment to Supervisor, Urban Library Centers (Brown Eastside, Brentwood, Graham and Westbrook Branch Libraries).

Q: Changing from a manager of one branch and taking on management of four libraries was a monumental step. How did you prepare for that transition?

A: Changing from a manager of one branch and taking on management of four libraries was certainly a change, but not really a major transition for me. I had previously worked at several of these libraries and am very familiar with the branches and the communities they serve.

However, my leadership training and professional experience has been a springboard for success. Creating one team in four library locations was a new concept for JPL.  It was an inviting challenge, one that I knew I could handle. A few years ago, I chaired a Florida Library Association committee in which the members resided in various regions throughout the state of Florida.  I was able to successfully engage geographically separated individuals to meet deadlines and accomplish goals. Looking back on this experience helped me to understand that a team’s strength is not necessarily determined by close proximity. A team is developed through identifying shared values, open lines of communication, building trust and, most importantly, by building on the strengths of the team. The City of Jacksonville’s Leadership Development Academy and the Library’s Destination Leadership program also prepared me for my current role. The LDA class on Team Building defines a team as a group of people working together towards a common goal.  Keeping this definition in mind has been beneficial in my leading the four branches to meet and exceed goals.

Q:  Do you have a basic rule for handling difficult decisions in management?

A: Absolutely.  My basic rules for handling difficult decisions in management is to stay focused on the desired outcome and identify possible solutions, while keeping the big picture in mind.

I understand that there are often numerous solutions to any given problem. Therefore, as a manager, I have to identify the solution that will bring about the best possible result.  One method I use to identify a solution is to gather the opinions of others.  I have never been a know-it-all.  I like to bounce ideas off other people to see different viewpoints.  After I gather what I like to call “contrasting points-of- view”, I make my final decision based on the information I have gathered.

In his book, Growing a Business, Paul Hawken states, “Good management is the art of making problems so interesting and their solutions so constructive that everyone wants to deal with them.”  I agree.  I have been able to make difficult decisions a little less difficult by making problems interesting.

For example, while managing Regency Square Branch Library, I challenged myself not only to streamline the presorting area, which had been traditionally known to be a place of extreme clutter and overflowing shelves, but I was also determined to streamline the process to the point where at least one range of presorting shelving could be removed. This was a major undertaking that took team work, buy-in and a great deal of collaboration. I did not sit in my office with my door closed trying to figure out the problem.  I observed, asked questions, and gathered the opinions of others.  I found that quite often the best solutions came from the part-time shelvers, who actually did the physical work and had a major stake in creating a successful outcome.  The presorting problem was interesting because it has existed for such a long period of time.  The decision to remove an entire shelving unit met with opposition but it was a decision that I had made and wanted to move forward.  Before I left Regency, the presorting shelving was consistently in great shape and the one range of shelving was dismantled and removed.  I’m certainly results-focused. This has enabled me to be a champion in making great decisions.

Q:  What is your management philosophy?

A:  Ralph Waldo Emerson was quoted as saying, “What you do speaks so loud that I can not hear what you say.”

I believe strongly in setting an example, or as Kouzes and Posner in The Leadership Challenge would describe it: Model the Way.  I have found that leading by example is a strong way to influence others. When you model the way, you don’t have to do a great deal of talking.  People tend to learn best by observing you. The Greek philosopher Plato was quoted as saying, “Good actions give strength to others and inspire good actions in others.”  While I believe this to be accurate, I also believe the reverse is also true.  Substandard actions inspire substandard actions in others.

As a manager I am always conscious of the message I’m sending, not only by my words but especially by my actions.

What is the most rewarding element of your position as the Urban Centers Library Supervisor?

A:  In my current role, I experience variety.  I have always successfully handled multiple priorities.  So, this role is actually a great fit for me.

On Monday, I may be working all day in the office.  On Tuesday morning, I may be assisting customers at the desk at Westbrook and by that same afternoon, I could be assisting customers at the Brown Eastside Branch.

Needless to say, I have to remain flexible, delegate responsibly, and remain thankful for such great staff members.

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

A:  I love inspirational quotes. Here’s a few of my favorites:

• Well done is better than well said. -- Benjamin Franklin
• Make the most of yourself for that is all there is of you. -- Ralph Waldo Emerson
• It always seems impossible, until it’s done. --- Nelson Mandela

Black Women in American Culture & History Calendar

Besides the other outstanding people honored in the 2012 Black Women in American Culture & History calendar, you will see JPL's photogenic Library Board Vice Chair Dr. Brenda Simmons.  Dr. Simmons is also a charter member and the Administrative Liaison and Advisor for Black Women in American Culture & History and has been since 1989. 

You will also see Deputy Director Carolyn Williams featured for April and a snapshot of JPL's Library Supervisor of JPL's Special Collections/African American Collections Pat Morrison.  Pat is also the Black History Calendar Committee Co-Chair.

2nd Chibi Exhibit at Southeast Branch

Southeast Branch Library proudly presents its second Chibi Exhibition. Teens and Tweens of Southeast's Chibi Club celebrated their success (pictured right) with a chocolate themed party. Their magnificent art work can be viewed at SE Library during January and February.  Don't miss it. 

Like Variety? DU Has It

Highlands Branch Anime Club celebrated Japanese New Year by serving egg rolls--made by the teens and fried by Charron Williams--to the ten teens attending  the event.  They dined at creative place settings designed by Dana Curry.

On January 11, Beverly Mason held the second annual Peanut Butter Mania. One of the highlights was Tyhedra Wilson singing “Peanut, Peanut Butter (and Jelly)".  Sixteen children, teens, tweens and parents enjoyed peanut butter on bread, crackers, or apples, with or without jelly. National Peanut Butter Day is January 24, but DU celebrated a little early because of early voting.

Later in the day, Eva Newton and Dana Curry took a pile of fabric and PVC pipes that had been in storage since 2004 and restored DU's puppet theater. Every few years employes take the parts out of the box, make an attempt at putting it together and pack it back up. Dana and Eva made it a reality. Expect some puppet shows in the near future at Highlands.

Brentwood Branch Offers After School Programs

Brentwood Branch's Christie Rogers sent this picture of Library Assistant Gloria Armstrong with children participating in Brentwood's after school activities. Gloria helps the children with math, reading, and writing every day after school from 3 pm-6 pm. After school games are also available for the children.

UPK's Lorraine Wilson Is 2011 "Volunteer of the Year"

Marlin Day, Librarian Senior at University Park Branch said, "If you look up the definition of 'hard working' in the dictionary, you would find a picture of Lorraine Wilson, a volunteer at UPK, who has logged more than 1,000 volunteer hours in less than two years. She helps out where and when she is needed throughout the community in a variety of ways. She volunteers at Arlington Community Services, a local food bank. She volunteers at her church and she helps out her friends.

"Ms. Wilson was chosen as JPL's Volunteer of the Year for 2011 and recently she was honored at University Park Branch with a luncheon. Library Director Barbara Gubbin would not have missed congratulating Lorraine and expressing her appreciation, and we thanked Lorraine for all the assistance she has given us over the years. Ms. Wilson has made the library a better place, given us much encouragement and contributed many hours of work pulling weeding lists, finding items on the send list, trapping holds and many, many hours of shelving books, DVDs and CDs. Our library would not be the great branch it is without the assistance of our volunteers, and Lorraine Wilson is a shining example of, as the volunteer's vision statement reads, our volunteers making a difference.  (Ms. Wilson is shown below accepting her award from Mr. Day.)

"One of the wonderful things about Lorraine is that she doesn't do what she does for the accolades. To celebrate her award and express our appreciation, we just had a simple meal and said our thank-you's for all her help and for being our friend.  Per Lorraine's wishes, there was no press, no politicians, or banners pulled across the sky.  We appreciate all that she does to help out.  Her caring, giving nature and dedication to improving the area is inspiring."

All the rest of us wish to add our sincere appreciation, too, Ms. Wilson!

Mystery Shopping FAQ's

JPL's Training Coordinator. Sara Radovic, shares this update with you:  "Thank you to everyone who responded to the Customer Service Satisfaction survey!  We have compiled your questions and below is a list of frequently asked questions with answers for you.  If you have a question that isn’t addressed on this list, please send it to me at sradovic@coj.net.  I will answer it and update the FAQs accordingly.  Again, your participation is appreciated!"

                                       MYSTERY SHOPPING FAQ'S

What will they be looking for?

The mystery shoppers will be looking at four aspects of our services – Circulation, Reference, Customer Service, and Front-line Marketing. The shoppers will be asking routine questions at the Circulation and Reference Desks. They will be assessing:
- the accuracy of the information given out (was the correct policy stated?)
- overall customer service.

What is expected of staff ?  Will I be judged for something I didn't know I was supposed to do or know?

The mystery shoppers will be asking the same kind of questions we get day-in and day-out. You are already doing most of what they’ll be looking for.  Front-line marketing is something new for JPL, and Training will make sure you’re given what you need to know to be successful in a shop.

Will the shopper check phone etiquette?

Yes, we anticipate that the mystery shoppers will evaluate phone etiquette.

Are there disciplinary procedures in place for poor mystery shopping feedback?  Will this have any impact on our performance reviews and in the distant future when we may start getting raises again, will this be a factor?  How is this going to tie into my performance management?  Is this an information gathering tool for training?  Are the above behaviors those that will be "graded" or are there other aspects?

Staff won’t be disciplined for a poor shop. It’s not a gotcha. The purpose of the mystery shopping is to assess effectiveness and determine needs for additional training, not to penalize staff. The shops can be looked at as being just another kind of customer feedback, and it’s up to the manager’s discretion as to how he/she wants to incorporate them into the performance reviews.

Are the mystery shoppers going to be regular customers who are willing to assist or are they people who do this as their job?

The mystery shoppers are professionally trained as shoppers, though they could very well also be current JPL customers.

How in-depth will the circulation questions be for staff who work in a reference department?  Some mystery shopper experiences the staff has had involved mystery shoppers being instructed to act out, be difficult, or ask what we cannot provide. Will this type of testing the staff be used?  Will the shopper ask hard questions or routine questions?  Will they understand that neighborhood libraries may be different than larger branches?

The mystery shoppers will be asking routine questions, the kind we get everyday at the Circulation and Reference Desks. They won’t be instructed to be difficult customers, and they won’t be asking weird or bizarre questions. We understand that the neighborhood libraries are different than the larger branches and have developed specific questions for the shoppers when they are there.

Will the staff be aware when the mystery shopper is coming in?

The mystery shops will start in March and managers will know within a few days when their branch has been shopped.

Will staff have an opportunity to share their experience with this endeavor?

The managers and Administrative staff will have direct access to the shops once they’re completed and will discuss outcomes in their regular staff meetings. There will be system-wide recognition of good shops.

How did this start?

Mystery shopping was selected to support Objective #6 in the Balanced Scorecard – "Practice essential behaviors of customer service excellence" and "Give accurate information to customers."

State Senator Audrey Gibson Visits Brown Eastside Branch's Career Center

State Senator Audrey Gibson visited the Brown Eastside Branch Library January 5 to learn about the library’s Career Center. Library Associate Tony Williams outlined the services offered at the Career Center, including research for those interested in starting their own business. Tony said on average, 57 people visit the center each month and customers use an average of 97 hours of computer time to search for jobs, fill out online applications and work on their resumes. Sen. Gibson remarked at how impressed she was with the center and its offerings and opened up a discussion about the challenges the library faces in providing this much needed service to the community, particularly funding for staffing. A strong library advocate, Sen. Gibson pledged her continued support for the Jacksonville Public Library system.  (Sen. Gibson, standing in above picture, took time to assist a customer during her visit.)

During the Senator’s visit, a customer praised Eastside Branch’s staff for their professional help in her job search, adding if it were not for the library and access to the Internet, she would not be able to apply for jobs or fill out other online government forms.

Attending the presentation were Library Board Trustee Jackie Perry, Administrative Supervisors Michael Sullivan and Ava Barrett, Library Supervisor Marshelle Berry, Librarian Senior Daniel Kibler, and Assistant Director of Community Relations and Marketing Kathy Lussier.

The Brown Eastside Library Career Center is open Monday through Thursday from 1 p.m.—5 p.m. Appointments may be made for one-on-one assistance. As with all library programs, there is no cost for this service. The library is located at 1390 Harrison Street and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kudos from Customers

Main – Reference & Periodicals:  "Ms. Karren (Deas) helps me with my website and also she keeps me on track at all times."

Main - Teens:  "Keli (Likins) and the wonderful library staff:  Thank you so much for the wonderful tours you gave our students this past month!  It was incredibly informative and I know the kids truly benefited from the experience.”

Pablo Creek Branch:  “The ladies in the children area (Peggy Crawford, Hongying Song, Delon Rowan, and Julie Rekow) are great and always helpful. I always enjoy going in there to pick out books for my son because I know I can ask for advice and receive help right away with a smile.”

Southeast Branch:  "The circulation staff & Lynne Baldwin are awesome! Someone Who Knows.”

South Mandarin Branch:  “Overall, the staff at S. Mandarin Branch are tops! Especially the children's section (Tracy O’Sullivan, Ann Clement, Pat Dowdell, and Angela Richmond). I've been all around Jacksonville. Thank you for all your services that are available. Living in Duval County is a blessing because of our library system. "  

47 Attend E-Reader Class at Beaches Branch

Sandra Ostroski, Librarian Senior, reports the 1 1/2 hour E-Reader Tips program, January 11, at Beaches Branch was a great success.   Five of the 47 people who attended were JPL employees.  Donna Peretzman, JPL's E-Specialist, designed and delivered an effective PowerPoint presentation on how to use Overdrive to check out e-books from the library and how to download them onto an e-reader device.  Customers and staff were pleased with the program and many positive comments have been received.

BIG Friends of JPL Sale & New Hours

Harry Reagan, President of the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library sent this update to Friends members late afternoon, January 10, which we want to share with all JPL staff: 

"I want to tell you about a special deal we’re offering our members – 50% off on all purchases of used books at our BOOKtique in the Main Library downtown, and at our Saturday Morning Bookstore at University Park Library, 3435 University Blvd. N. The 50% discount starts now, and will end January 31.

"Also, the Saturday Morning Bookstore is going to become the Tuesday Morning Bookstore and the Thursday Morning Bookstore for a while. We’ll be open from 9:00 to noon on Tuesday and Thursday, as well as Saturday.

"As you know, the regular member discount is 20%, so 50% is a very good deal.

"Please tell your friends and neighbors about this and suggest that they become FJPL members. Here are the membership prices: Family, $25; Individual, $15; Senior Citizen and Student, $10."

Pablo Creek's Avant-Garde Automated System Installed

Pablo Creek Regional Library's new automated materials return system, officially called "3MTM Intelligent Return and Sorter System", was installed December 20 and opened to the public on January 5, 2012.  This system instantly checks in materials, then sorts returns into bins for shelving.  Click here and scroll down to get a quick view of how the automated system works:  https://www.facebook.com/#!/pablo.creek.library.

What are the advantages of such an automated system?  Quick, accurate check in of materials, items returned to shelves quicker and available for check out again; holds are available for immediate processing, more staff time to assist customers--and less staff injury and physical strain.  An exclamation point could be added after this impressive list of attributes!

We can again thank The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library for providing major funding for this system. 

SAT Study Group for Teens at Pablo Creek Branch

Pablo Creek is hosting an SAT study group for teens on Monday evenings at 6:00 pm, January 23 and January 20, 2012.  Apprise teens who visit your library that they can contact teen librarian Curt Beadell to register. 

Classical Guitarist at MH for Holiday Program

Classical guitarist Jeffrey Bianchi played to a filled room of appreciative folks at Murray Hill Branch Library during a holiday program recently.  The Friends of the Murray Hill Library and these local merchants provided refreshments:  The Crazy Egg, Edgewood Bakery, and Moon River.  Many thanks to all of MH's Friends and friends. 

A story time craft for children followed the performance. 

Feast Your Eyes at Pablo Creek Branch

PCR Manager Carol Bailey invites you and your customers to a real treat:  “Oil Paintings by Chen Qitao” are on display throughout the month of January at Pablo Creek Branch.  A couple of samples like these will whet any artistic taste buds one may have (or could create some for anyone who doesn't have 'em.) 

Next month the Pablo Creek Art Gallery will feature a display called “My World Through Impressionistic Eyes: Paintings by Judy Craft”.  Ms. Craft's art will be on display the entire month of February. 

Ms. Bailey is looking for artists to feature for the rest of this year, and if anyone knows any good artists who would be interested in exhibiting at Pablo Creek, please contact her:  phone: 992-7101; or email her.  Your suggestions are appreciated.