Main Teen Department's Video Contest Is A Big Winner

Main Library Teen Department's Librarian Senior Keli Likins reports they had 14 entries and 42 teens/family members in attendance at the reception on October 16 in the Main Library's MP-1 where the winners were announced. The winner of the contest was Aakash and he played his video on the book The Life of Pi. His and the other videos can be viewed here:
http://www.youtube.com/user/JPLTeenScene

Aakash won the New iPad.  The second place winner won an iTouch and the third place winner received an iPod Classic.
In the top center photo, Bruce (a volunteer) and Angela Gaines (leader of TRW workgroup) are seen in the background and front, left to right, are Keli Likins, the 3rd place winner Ryan P., and Adult Program Specialist Lisa Buggs, who emceed the show.

On the right above are pictured Michelle Barth, Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Brown, and Dr. Donnie Horner, Education Commissioner, who obviously enjoyed the event.

Veteran's Day Display

Veteran's Day is November 11 and what a good time to have a blowout celebration of our veterans with a red white and blue book display honoring those brave men and women who have served, and many paid with their lives for us to live in this country.

Kudos from Customers

MAIN – CAL: Congratulations to your Adult Literacy Curriculum and to Katie Bark (Library Program Specialist), who wrote the Life Skills Lessons. …

MAIN – REFERENCE & PERIODICALS: Teacher Karren Deas is a very good teacher in the basic knowledge of computer skills…

GRAHAM BRANCH, MAIN, & WILLOWBRANCH: Going to the library has become a weekly ritual for us and aside from a trip to get ice cream, telling our girls we are going to the library brings unparalled excitement in our home. Mr. Josh (Jubinsky, Main), Miss Bell (Isabelle Pierre, WB), Miss Donna (Carroll, formerly at WB, now at Main), Miss Julie (Lipschutz-Pactor; formerly Children’s Librarian Senior at GB; now in Main Teen Dept.), Miss Susan (Koedel at WB))—they are all household names and have become my daughter Lillie’s alter ego when we play library at our house. Needless to say, the library and its librarians have become a constant source of entertainment and have made a strong, positive impression on my children.

SOUTH MANDARIN BRANCH: Please keep Ms. Pat (Dowdell, now at SE) in the children's section. My 3 & 4 year old have literally grown up with her. They now go right to her and ask for books on specific topics (fish, turtles, soccer, super heroes, etc.) and she helps them find just what they need each time. I do not think they would feel as comfortable asking for things themselves if they did not have such a strong bond with Ms. Pat.

City Offers Helpful Program for Staffs

Everyone seems to need help at one time or another.  Need to talk?  Got a problem that could use some valid, objective advice but you cannot afford counseling?  City/JPL employees can call (904) 351-5010 and arrange an appointment, if need be.  Short-term counseling--at no charge--on various aspects of life, are offered by the City's Employee Assistance Program.  These services include:

Addictive behaviors - Anxiety - Anger management - Caregiver counseling - Child counseling - Coping with a life change - Depression - Divorce counseling - Domestic violence - Eating disorder situations - Eldercare issues - Emotional/physchological concerns - Family counseling - Grief issues - Legal or financial stress - Loss and grieving - Marital or relationship difficulties - Organizational change - Other Difficulties - Personal and life improvment - Stress management - Substance abuse - Work stress

You are invited to visit their website:  www.aetnaeap.com

Argyle Keeps 'Em Coming In

Argyle Branch Manger Janet Ducat reports they have a volunteer who visits AYL twice a week to give computer classes on their teen computers. If not enough people sign up, she cancels the class.

Also, Amber Boyette, one of their part-timers holds a knitting class.

San Marco Hosts Creative Writing Talk

On September 25, San Marco Library hosted an evening bookside Creative Writing chat program for adults with Ray McClintock , a former professor of Creative Writing at FSCJ and Edward Waters College: Tea, Cookies, and Conversation.  SS's Manager Pam Thompson said eight attendees were delighted with the talk.

If you are interested in having Prof. McClintock do a Creative Writing talk at your branch, Ms. Thompson could give you contact information.

November Friends Book Warehouse Sale

At the next Friends of JPL Book Warehouse Sale, you could find some practically new books for your friends, family, or anyone who "has everything"--or buy a new arm chair adventure for yourself:

FJPL Members Night (You can join the Friends there, if you are not already a member):  Friday, 11/9/12:   5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Come One, Come All: Saturday, 11/10/12:  9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

$10 for a Bag of Books:
Sunday, 11/11/12: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday, 11/13/12:  4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday, November 15: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, 11/17/12: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

All sales days will be at the Friends Book Warehouse located at the University Park Branch Library.

Be a friend to the Friends and JPL:  talk up FJPL's sales days; it's a win/win opportunity.

Idea for November Book Display

November is National Adoption Month, a time to raise awareness about the adoption of children and youth from foster care. This year's initiative focuses on building capacity of adoption professionals to recruit and retain parents for the 107,000 children and youth waiting for permanent families in the U.S. foster care system.  Peruse the website for more information: http://www.childwelfare.gov/adoption/nam/

Staff Profile

Jane Harris was asked to contribute to this article when she was still West Regional/Maxville Branch Manager.  She was recently named JPL's West Region Manager and will be supervising Argyle, Highlands, Maxville and West Regional branches.  For now, Jane says she will keep her office at  WST.  Smart, kind, relatively quiet, dilligent, intuitive--one could think of many positive adjectives to describe this lady.  It is really easy to like Jane Harris, and once you read her history of 27 years at JPL, you'll agree:  JPL has come a long way!

Q: How long have you been with JPL and what experience did you bring with you that best served you here at JPL?

A: I have been with JPL for 27 years. Before coming to JPL, I worked for the Palm Beach County Library System. When I started with Palm Beach County I had no experience working in a public library. It was an eye opening experience. During my time there, I think I called every emergency number in existence, went through a hurricane, a parking lot brawl, and a number of building emergencies. By the time I started at JPL, I was a lot calmer when dealing with emergency situations.

Q: You have managed several of our libraries.  Please share your experiences and how branches differ (or don't) in service to meet the needs of their geographical areas.

A: I have managed five libraries for JPL. In many ways they have been very similar. The customers come in with a need that they expect us to fill. The vast majority of the customers are appreciative and friendly. In all the branches, children’s services were in high demand. Parents want to bring their children to the library for a fun and educational experience. The differences were mostly in the demand for materials. In my current location, Inspirational books and nonfiction “how to” books are very popular. When I was at Regency, Romance and Manga were popular. At Webb, African-American fiction and books to help with school were in demand. Of course, there are the universal favorites like DVD’s and practice test books.

Q: What are a few of the important things you have learned as a manager that could benefit all of us?

A: The main things I have found helpful are to be flexible and to listen to my employees. It is amazing what ideas they can come up with when you are receptive.

Q: What are some of the outstanding changes you have seen in libraries since you have been with JPL?

A: I am really dating myself with this one, but computers have been the most outstanding change. When I first started with JPL, the computer circulation system was in the works, but had not been implemented. This felt like a return to the dark ages for me because Palm Beach County was already using a computer circulation system. I could not check and see if another branch had a title. I no longer could easily reserve materials. The reserve system at Regency was a marker board with needed titles written on it. When items were checked in, the clerk had to check the board to see if the book was needed for a reserve. We used to make monthly trips down to Main and search the shelves to fill reserve requests. Also, for the first time, I had to file catalog cards. I hated it. I could not wait for the day Jacksonville started using computers. We have come a long way since those days. Record keeping and inventory control are so much more efficient since the advent of computers. The dissemination of information has totally changed. We take for granted so much that was not even possible such a short time ago. I love knowing where an item is and being able to locate it for a customer. It is so much easier to search a database and come up with an answer in a few minutes than searching indexes of multiple texts trying to locate an obscure fact. (Although I do miss some of the bar bet questions that apparently customers are now answering themselves.) As technology continues to develop and evolve, I know there will be other changes. I am struggling to keep up with this, but I believe that libraries will continue in some form. After all, we provide free access and assistance to information.

Q: Who is your favorite author and why?

A:  I do not really have one favorite. I like authors that develop their characters. I have to be able to see and visualize the character. One author I like is Anne McCaffrey. I like her Pern series because she has developed a whole world and society with great characters. I also like Irving Stone, Leon Uris, Jane Austen, and Janet Evanovich along with many others. I mostly read fiction although I also like biographies. Robert Massie and John Toland are two biographical writers I enjoy.

CW Enjoys Fall Fest

Webb Wesconnett celebrated a fall feast with their preschoolers and parents on September 2.  Staff and customers had an interesting agenda.  The program included the turkey pokey and kids' pictures being made  (staff later sent the emails home to participants). Then the 45 attendees enjoyd various dishes everyone brought.

A Bit of JPL History From A Soon To Be Retiree, Heather Campbell

Heather Campbell, Senior Librarian in the Main Libarary's Popular/Fiction Department, will spend her last work day at the library on September 28 after 33 years of faithful service.  Needless to say, she will be missed.  Heather has seen many changes in library service and we thought you would like to hear about some of JPL's history from someone who has experienced many changes in library service in her 33 years:

"I have been at JPL since May 1979. I started out in General Services at the old Main Library. One of my duties was Interlibrary Loan, which was a lot different from the ILL we know now. It involved teletype machines and paper forms. I was there for seven years. In 1985, I promoted to Senior Librarian and went to Highlands Branch which opened that October. It was the first branch to have computer catalogs and a Circulation system; both were still in beta testing at the time. I was there 13 years. Then I was transferred to Bradham Brooks Northwest and was there a few months. I was transferred to Literature and History at the Main Library in May 1999. I served as Senior Librarian there and then transferred to ILL in December 2003. While in ILL, I oversaw the shift from multiple softwares to the ILLiad (ILL) system. Just before I left ILL, I oversaw the introduction of the Florida Navigator system. JPL was the first Florida public library to use ILLiad for both lending and borrowing. JPL also led the way in being the first and largest public library to sign up to be a "first wave" participant in the Florida Navigator project. In October 2011, I was transferred to the Popular Department. In addition to my reference and supervisory duties, I led the Art Walk Committee, was the contact person for Tai Chi classes, and was one of the JPL representatives for ShAdCo and Downtown Vision."

We wish you and your family the very best in the years to come, Heather, and hope your retirement years will bring new adventures and much joy.  Thank you for all you have done for JPL; we have enjoyed working with you.

Kudos from Customers

Main – Popular: "...I would like to commend the very outstanding services rendered by Alisha (LeVasseur) regarding my use of my Kindle Fire."

Main - Teen: “Keli Likins from the Teen Department really went out of her way to accommodate my needs and those of my sixth grade students. She had tours set up for our students to walk through the library and also gave a 1 hour presentation on accessing the online databases. The event was such a success that Mrs. Likins offered to come to the school this year to work with our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. This was instrumental in getting our students excited about Science Fair. …”

Regency Square Branch: "…Elaine Aspinwall. I have praised her previously and it is certainly well earned and deserved. She never fails to greet me by name. She is always willing to help with any query I present. Elaine just goes out of her way to always smile and show genuine caring for my being there and her position. Please keep in mind, however, there are others on your staff there that are also wonderful and exemplary employees and volunteers or possibly interns."

San Marco Branch: "Several of the staff members know me by name and are very helpful and friendly. Philip (Sturges) is especially helpful."

Westbrook Branch:  "…the employees at this branch are awesome!!! They are so willing to help and it is nice that they all have smiles on their faces every time I come in. Christie (Rogers), Tia (Samuels), and Susan (Williamson) are the best! The Library should be very proud to have them as workers dealing with the public."

A Note From Jerry Reynolds

Special Services Manager Jerry Reynolds will retire after 24 years of service, and he has this to say:

" I appreciate the opportunity that JPL gave me to work with a very significant segment of the population of Jacksonville in offering a program as valuable as Talking Books. The chance to extend JPL’s resources into a community of people who don’t always have the advantages of excellent health or mobility was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I plan to continue to volunteer outreach and to maintain the relationships that we have built through the years, especially to seniors. The personal rewards are worth so much.  Thanks, Jerry"

And we thank you, Jerry, for all your years of dedicated service to JPL and wish you the very best in the future.

UPK Hosts CM Yarborough's Town Hall Meeting

University Park Branch hosted District 1 Councilman Clay Yarborough's  Town Hall meeting on September 17 to discuss the City's budget and his work on the Council's Finance Committee.  UPK Manager Marlin Day said about 25 people attended.

Summer Short Story Contest Winners Announced

Youth Services Supervisor Kathy Tekin announced this summer's Short Story contest winners today.  They were selected from 56 entries at the High School level and 24 entries at the Middle School Level.

Middle School Winners:

1st Place - Shruti Murali, who volunteered at Southeast and attends Darnell-Cookman School of the Medical Arts

2nd Place - Nicole Altomare, who volunteered at Mandarin and attends Liberty Pines Academy

High School Winners:

1st Place - Dipayan Banerjee, who volunteered at Mandarin and attends Stanton College Preparatory School

2nd Place - Taehwan Mark Kwak, who volunteered at Pablo Creek and attends Stanton College Preparatory School

Mrs. Tekin reports that the judges spent considerable time reading and rereading the short stories to select the best. It was a difficult task to come up with the top two in each age group.

Mrs. Tekin gives a BIG Thank You to the judges and all of the volunteer coordinators who worked with the teens this past summer.

The combined base number of hours volunteered were 800 hours of assistance in our branches!

Southeast Speeds Up Children's Check Out

Attention!  Attention!  You can now check out library materials in the Children’s Department at Southeast.  SE just moved a self-check machine from the circulation desk to the Children’s Department and customers love it!  Manager Lynne Baldwin gives a big thanks to Innovator Award winner Carisia Rooney for creating a sign to highlight ther old but new service in the Children’s Department. 

San Marco Will Host Writing Class

Who wants to write?  Shoo those customers--and you, if you like--to San Marco Branch, 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 25, 2012, for an interesting class:

Creative Writing with Ray McClintock:
Tea, Cookies and Conversation

SS invites customers and staff to join them for tea, cookies and conversation. Ray McClintock will speak about his writing career and share his keys to creative writing. He is a published poet, a past winner of the Florida First Coast Writers Competition, and a former professor of creative writing. For more information, please call SS: 858-2907.

Staff Profile

Eric Soriano is an E-Library Specialist, who works in Main's Popular department. He is the winner of the third quarter Employee of the Quarter and Challenge the Process Awards. Earlier in the year, Eric arranged a public viewing of The Hammer, a new movie about a deaf wrestler (see JPL Staff News blog article, April 12).  He is enthused about opportunities to bring those with expertise together to serve the needs in our community.  His passion for life, family, and helping others is commendable.

Q: Your interest in helping people is the basis of much of your work at JPL. What promulgated your determination to improve the quality of life for others?

A: I’ve always been involved with socially relevant and service-oriented activities since my college years. I went to a university that emphasized the value of social action and that stuck with me. As a member of Jesuit Volunteers Philippines program, my volunteer work with rural poor communities strengthened my resolve to seek opportunities to serve the underprivileged. The same passion and commitment led me to start a career education and placement program for the deaf in Manila, among other related initiatives.

Thus, I see JPL as an excellent platform to serve fellow citizens who visit the library daily. I take the word “public” in public library very seriously. As a struggling immigrant father almost six years ago, I was a beneficiary myself of the fantastic services of the public library. So I can relate how a refugee, a person with a disability, or a customer facing challenges appreciates JPL’s many resources and programs. It is my own way of giving thanks to this institution for the many opportunities given to me both as a customer and as an employee.

Q: After “The Hammer” was shown at the Main Library, teachers and deaf viewers expressed an interest in attending future JPL deaf or ASL related activities. Have more activities been scheduled?

A: I am grateful to the Jacksonville Deaf Club, local colleges that offer deaf education/ASL courses, and various JPL offices for making The Hammer movie screening a great success. I'd like future programs to carry the same spirit of collaboration with both JPL and the deaf community. That said, there is a pending request to see if we could get the rights for movies using mostly ASL. There are independent film companies that produce such films. However, these titles are not part of the current list of movies that we have the rights to show. Hopefully, we can develop a follow-up movie program sometime during the fall. We are also checking the possible use of the auditorium in November for the Deaf Hands-On Theatre program organized by the Jacksonville Deaf Club and UNF. ASL programs for kids are also being discussed. There may be opportunities for other JPL branches to host deaf-themed programs. I plan to contact JPL colleagues who may be interested in exploring these activities. Working with and for the deaf community is a rewarding experience.

Q: How have you used your knowledge of Filipino sign language in assisting deaf customers?

A: I always tell people that there is no universal sign language and my previous experience signing in Filipino Sign Language (FSL) does not perfectly translate to American Sign Language (ASL). However, it helps that the language structure/rules and many signs of FSL and ASL are very similar. It has definitely been an advantage communicating with our deaf customers. While I am not certified to interpret, I've been called numerous times at the circulation and "Ask Here" desks to facilitate the communication between staffs and customers. I have also made myself available during e-government and job search open lab programs for deaf customers in need of assistance.

Q: When you found that our deaf and Spanish-speaking population wanted computer classes, you met the challenge. How did you organize these classes and get instructors to assist, and what benefits do you see for these people and JPL from your efforts?

A: We have yet to offer regular computer classes in ASL. I have discussed this with our partners and hope to someday offer classes at Main and other branches that may be more accessible to the deaf community.

Computer classes in Spanish, on the other hand, wouldn't be possible without the partnership with Center for Adult Learning (CAL) and the support of my supervisors. CAL was instrumental in relaying to us the request for basic computer instruction from their ESOL students, as well as coordinating with the students and promoting the program. I was fortunate to have a couple of bilingual volunteers who were very patient with me as we went through the birth pains of the program. One of them, Francisco, is now currently employed and serves as a class facilitator. CW’s Jessica Serrano is part of the team that developed the modules and regularly teaches classes. My role has been to set the general direction of the program, coordinate with our various partners, and be our learners' number one cheerleader! The team also enjoyed the numerous brainstorming and evaluation meetings since the early conceptualization stage back in April. We've grown from an initial pilot class exclusive to selected ESOL students to weekly public class offerings in two locations (Main and CW). The goal is to further improve promotion of the program and recruit more bilingual volunteers to teach classes. We hope to work with other branches that have a significant Spanish-speaking population and offer similar classes in the future.

Q: What is your favorite pastime?

A: I am blessed to have a beautiful wife, Ruby, and two amazing daughters, Danielle, age 8,  and Denise, age 7. I spend most of my leisure time with them and every moment with them is a favorite!

My wife and I love traveling and exploring new adventures together. We've done all the crazy theme park rides, skydiving, white water rafting, and we've jumped a bridge together. Recently, we conquered Asia's longest zip line (840meters/4500 feet above sea level) during a visit to the island of Mindanao, Philippines. We are the biggest fans of our daughters who are budding junior triathletes. They are now training for their third race of the year in central Florida.

I'm getting more involved with the Filipino community in Jacksonville and currently teach a pilot Conversational Tagalog class twice a month at the Main Library. I am a lifelong sports fan. I only discovered American football six years ago and now I'm totally hooked on the game and rooting hard for the Jags!

What is most important to me, though, is that I always try to make time amidst my busy schedule for personal prayer and reflection.

CW: Celebrating Success and Rewarding Great Customers

Webb Wesconnett hosted 120 people at a special party, Saturday, August 25.  All who came and had read the 10 book requirement for the summer received a book. (Webb reports that 3,000+ books were read over the summer and CW had the highest number of people in the library system that signed up SRP readers.

At the party, everyone received prizes. Laurie Mills asked three pizza places to donate pizza: Papa Johns, Pizza Hut, and Little Caesars. Pizza and drinks were follwed by dessert (four dozen donut holes donated by Dunkin Donuts).  Gator Clowns volunteered to do a skit and they painted faces and animal balloons. All the kids dressed as storybook characters.

Laurie Mills' grandchildren attended and they are pictured lower left.    What a way to celebrate the success of CW's Summer Library Program and reward those who came!

Webb Closes SRP Then Stars the Tooth Fairy

Webb Wesconnett's Carol Bunker dressed as the one and only Tooth Fairy and--to no one's surprise--kids listened aptly to stories about teeth.  Laurie Mills demonstrated the proper way to brush one's teeth, using Freddy Sauras' (a stuffed dinosaur) pearly whites. The children received new tooth brushes, tooth paste, and a color book about the importance of brushing well. They had a healthy apple snack and watched a movie on te subject. The August 16 program garnered 32 people.  Pictured are some of the kids with the Tooth Fairy.

Curious Moon Puppets delighted the 65 folks who attended CW's last program of the summer on August 1st. The program complemented their night time theme for the Summer Reading Program, Dream Big.

Ballots for City's Pension Advisory Committee Due August 29, 2012

Per the August 6, 2012 memo from the City's Retirement System Administrative Office, City employees must return their ballots by Monday, August 27, 2012, by no later than 4:00 p.m.  Facsimiles and postmarked dates will not be accepted.

Two-Term Chair Jim Selzer Honored By BOLT

Brenda Simmons-Hutchins, Ph.D., became the new Chair of our Board of Library Trustees, July 1.  Here she honors past two-term Chair Jim Selzer with a book that will be placed in the library in his honor.  He also received a beautiful wooden bowl handmade by BOLT member Mark Wood. 

Many of us remember Jim Selzer's untiring efforts working on the Capacity Plan and working hard with Director Gubbin and other BOLT members to keep as many dollars as they could for JPL's budget and help move JPL's services into the 21st century.  We deeply appreciate Mr. Selzer's dedication to JPL; he is an outstanding executive and will continue to serve as a Trustee on the Library Board.

Award Time For Staff At BOLT Meeting

Pictured left/right, top to bottom, are BOLT Chair Brenda Simmons-Hutchins, flanked by Deputy Director Carolyn Williams, presenting awards at the August 9 Board meeting to:  CAL's Katie Bark and Karen Wishart both won a Challenge the Process award. 

AR's Elaine Aspinwall won the Encourage the Heart award and Main Conference Center's Will Daniels won the Model the Way award. Enable Others to Act awards were presented to JPL's Training Coordinator Sara Radovic and SE's Carisia Rooney. Main's Eric Soriano won a Challenge the Process award and the Employee of the Quarter award. (We regret that a presentation picture of Carisia and Eric were not received but are including their staff pictures.) 

"Back to School" At GB Hosts 200+ Families

For several years, GB Library Clerk Delores (Dee) Walker has organized a Back to School event in the Urban Core. On August 15, Dee was assisted by GB staffers Carolyn Armstrong and Johnnie Speights, and all relished seeing the results of their labor. Thanks to gracious donations of JPL staff and community “friends”, Graham Branch hosted 200+ families.  Each child received an age appropriate bag with school supplies, and clothing and treats were available.  Additionally, children were given a TNT bag full of  tooth paste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc. that Dee helped put together.

One special feature was the Unique Boutique where Dee and other volunteers helped families select an outfit for their children. One special memory for Dee is when she assisted a family with two visually impaired young ladies.  She enjoyed helping their parents select an outfit for both girls that met everyone’s satisfaction.

Dee said, “It was hard work but worth every minute when so many kids with wide smiles said ‘thank you’. The biggest reward was when a family of four said ‘thank you’ and then one of the little boys turned away from his family and ran back and gave me the biggest hug without saying a word.  To me, that was worth all the sleepless nights of preparations.”

This event was truly a labor of love and it couldn’t have been done without the extraordinary efforts of Dee, her volunteers, and the gracious donations and assistance of others.

Need New Ideas? Innovator Award Winners Have 'Em

We all need a fresh idea at times and JPL's Innovator Award winners can help turn the light bulb on for you.  Just when you think it has all been done, someone gets a nifty idea; in fact, at JPL it is almost every day.  If you have not looked at the Innovator Award site lately, do it now--you'll be glad you did:

http://jplstaff.coj.net/archive/admin/innovator-award/index.html

Kudos from Customers

Brentwood Branch: The staffs at the Pearl St. library (Kim McTeer, Irissa Allen, Denise Thomas, and Margaret Miles) are very friendly.

Mandarin Branch: We have an excellent children's library section, thanks in large part to Mr. (David) Foster, Mrs. (Margo) Crafton, and (until being transferred recently) Ms. (Sarah) Miller. Thank you for being a much needed educational resource for the children, especially in the summer months.

Pablo Creek Branch: Dear Peggy (Crawford): Thank you so much for your assistance…in selecting the many bereavement books for our household; they were extremely helpful. I appreciate your efforts for going all out and researching them for us. You are a credit to the Jacksonville Library system.

South Mandarin Branch: Ms. Pat Dowdell…is so cheery, helpful, warm, and welcoming. We really appreciate her.

University Park Branch: Mary (Calcagni) and Kim (Hamilton) in the kids' section are the best! All the staff members are very friendly…and we love coming to UPK.

City Leaders & JPL Are Building Effective Partnerships

On Friday August 10th, some community leaders (pictured above with JPL staff) boarded a bus and toured several library locations, highlighting programs and services. The tour began with a continental breakfast meet and greet at Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church’s Educational Center. Locations visited included CAL, Talking Books, PCR, EB and GB. The group received words of welcome by Deputy Director Carolyn Williams and JPL's Board Chair Dr. Brenda Simmons-Hutchins. Presentations were done by Library Supervisor Marshelle Berry, Early Childhood Specialist Susan Mankowski, and Youth Services Coordinator Kathy Tekin. Talks and tours were provided by Karen Wishart, Chris Eaton, Tamera Branam and Anthony Williams.

According to Library Supervisor Marshelle Berry, “This particular tour is just one aspect of the amazing partnership with Shiloh. JPL outreach activities focusing on family literacy are being confirmed."

The partnership with the Education Center was an outgrowth of her Sunshine State Library Leadership Project. However, Ms. Berry stated, “The collaboration was specifically developed to assist in meeting critical literacy needs within the Urban Core Community. As we continue to redefine library service, establishing strategic alliances with non-traditional partners is going to be critical to our effectiveness. As a result of this one partnership, I have been contacted by other community organizations interested in collaborate efforts.”

UPK Honors Summer Teen Volunteers

University Park Branch Manager Marlin Day emailed this picture of volunteers who were honored and received treats at UPK, August 15, for all their much appreciated assistance over the summer.

Pictured left to right: Laura Sainvil, Gabriel Kwaji, Esther Iya, Adrienne Floyd, in blue in front is Lauren Adams next to sister Emily Adams.  Behind Emily is Laurie and Robin Shorem, Library Clerk Cheyla Scantling, who helped with the volunteer celebration, Harsh Patel and Marlin Day. 

Appreciation certificates and thank you notes were given to 16 teen summer volunteers. UPK also had a short story contest and the winner received an MP-3 player.  Way to go UPK volunteers!

Ending a Great SRP at Southeast

Fun was popping out all over in the Children’s Department at the Southeast Branch Library on August 8 when they celebrated the end of the Summer Reading Program with a popcorn party with over 100 parents and children in attendance.   The branch’s new popcorn machine and cart was the feature attraction along with a craft program, refreshments and awarding of prizes.

A Bridal Shower for Virginia Romero at Southeast Branch

Staff at the Southeast Branch Library gave a surprise bridal shower on August 7, 2012 for PT Library Clerk Virginia Romero who was so surprised she was speechless. Southeast’s own Cake Boss Barbara Hughes baked and decorated a pink shower cake. Library Associate Pelin Hangul (with able assistance from PT Library Clerk Suzanne Neikirk) did a beautiful job decorating the breakroom with different shades of pink, aqua and purple.  Virginia and Alex were married at the Ribault Club in Ft. George Island, Sunday, August 12, and we hope Virigina will share a wedding picture with us when she returns from her honeymoon--as well as her new last name.

AR Hosts Popular Party To Close SRP

Regency Square Branch's August 11 End of Summer Reading Party was held on AR's lawn and hosted 100 teens and chldren, who enjoyed sno-cones, ice cream and games.

Big Win for Jax Suns As JPL Customers & Staff Close SRP

The Jacksonville Suns hosted JPL customers and staff, as they have done for years, to close JPL's Summer Reading Program.  Youth Services Coordinator Kathy Tekin reports the August 12th ballgame was a real win for both the Suns and all who attended because the Suns won 7 - 1 over the Montgomery Biscuits!  That was remarkable because their opponents are leading in the league.

Robbie Tiedeman, Executive Assistant to the Facilities Manager, deferred his chance to throw the opening pitch to let his oldest son, Trevor, have the honor (pictured above).

Suns owner Peter Bragan, Jr. provided two bicycles to be given away at the game.  Ten year old Regency Square Branch customer Holly Adams and seven year old Argyle Branch customer Connor Peterson won the drawings.  Holly read approximately 50 books and Connor read about 125 books.  Mrs. Tekin said pictures of the winners should be available soon.

DU's Kathleen Brunner took her son, Alex, (pictured left ) and UPK's Rosalin Smalls (right) brought her granddaughter, Zylynn, to enjoy the winning game in the best weather they have had in years.

Today a Wrestling DVD; Tomorrow the Olympics?

Never underestimate the power of a good display.  This display of wrestling DVDs was done by Kim McTeer at Brentwood.  The young fellow is really taking it in; maybe he is dreaming of being an Olympic wrestler.  You never know who or what you may be inspiring, but one thing is certain, libraries make a big difference in millions of lives every day.

Staff Profile

Farryn James is a Non-Civil Service Clerk in the Main Library's Special Collections Department.  Pat Morrison, who supervises that department, thought Farryn's experiences would be of interest to JPL staff.  Farryn exemplifies what one can do early in life to overcome obstacles, set goals high, and work hard to attain them. 

Q: What were your aspirations when you were a young girl?

A: As a little girl, I always knew I could do everything and be anything. I wanted to be a “quadruple threat”—singer, dancer, actress and an author.  As I matured, however, I found my real passion in life was writing. I knew I was destined to become an author when I was writing on my bedroom walls as a kid. In my free time, I would take the school planners and compose songs and poems in them. I wrote my first play in elementary school and in high school I received an “A” on my first short story.

Q: How do you deal with adversity?

A: As a teenager, I remember asking God, “Why me?” when it seemed that my luck could not get any worse.  I was 15 when I was diagnosed with two chronic and sometimes debilitating diseases. Although I would be forced to live with these ailments for the rest of my life, I decided they would not cripple me. While most 16 year olds were enjoying their summer vacation, I was beating the pavement looking for a summer job. I didn’t have any luck until the following summer.

Q: How did you hear about the Seeds of Change Program?

A: A friend told me about this program that offers young adults job opportunities over a 16 week span during the summer, and after joining it, I was assigned to Brentwood Branch Library. Once there, I gained experience and bonded with the four women I worked with. That bond will never be broken.

Q: How has your experience in the Seeds of Change Program and JPL impacted your life?

A: The following year, I graduated from William M. Raines High School with a 3.0 GPA and began my first year at Florida State College at Jacksonville. I began working two jobs as well because I wanted to prove to my family that I could do anything I put my mind to. The Seeds of Change Program and my experiences at Brentwood Branch became building blocks for me on my bridge to success--the same bridge that brought me to my current job at the Main Library.  Ms. Gloria Armstrong (Brentwood Branch) sent excellent recommendations to my current supervisor.  I received a phone call, interviewed with Mrs. Margaret Morford, and the rest is history.

Now it seems as though my life has come full circle.  Instead of asking God “why me”; I thank Him every day for all the blessings in my personal and professional life. This year, I graduated from FSCJ with a cumulative GPA of 3.08 and an Associate of Arts Degree. I recently received a letter stating that I made the President’s List during my final semester at FSCJ.  I have been accepted at the University of North Florida and plan to receive my bachelor’s degree in Journalism. I never imagined that I would be where I am today, and I am so thankful for the good and the bad because everything is a lesson learned for me.

Q:  To a large degree, past and present determine the future.  What do you see for your future?

A:  While I feel I have accomplished so much, this is only the beginning. Look for me on the New York Times bestsellers list one day.  Toward that end, I continue to work on my craft -- writing, learning, and growing. I always thought, but now I know, any and everything is possible.

ULC Enjoys Three Treats In One Meeting

The Urban Library Center team breakfast was held at Graham Branch, July 26. Staff members came together from the four ULC locations and contributed breakfast items such as homemade waffles, cornbeef hash, grits, fresh fruit, bagels and sausage balls.

Christie Rogers and Tia Samuels were presented with JPL Innovator Awards.

As special guest, FJPL President Harry Reagan was presented with a certificate of appreciation.

KEEP THOSE INNOVATOR IDEAS & AWARDS GOING

Tia Samuels, Library Assistant at Westbrook Branch (pictured above), received her Innovator Award at a Team breakfast at Graham Branch, July 9, 2012.  Urban Library Center Supervisor Marshelle Berry was pleased to present Ms. Samuels her award, along with an Innovator Award presented to WBK's Library Associate Christie Rogers.  Ms. Rogers won her award for her personalized services at WBK.  She dedicates one hour each week of one-on-one computer training to a senior adult.  Ms. Samuels created "Recommended Reading " Shelf Talkers and uses bright colored paper with brief summaries of books to garner attention of customers, resulting in increased circulation.

Circulation was also upped in Main's Poular & Fiction when Librarian Kema Roseberry created a Last Chance Bookshelf that consists of books that have not been checked out for a while and are in danger of being weeded.  Ms. Roseberry won an Innovator Award for her idea, July 26, and it was presented by Library Supervisor Alisha LeVasseur, who appreciates these books getting more attention and seeing increased circulation.  A sign draws attention to the shelf, which reads, "Your patronage helps keep these books circulating in our collection. Check out a book today!"

Y-O-U may have a new idea to share with your manager that would benefit staff and/or customers.  Be creative and share your helpful suggestions with your supervisor.  If your idea is used, you could be the next winner of an Innovator Award.

Staff Trains Staff at UPK = Another Success

On Saturday, July 21, Library Assistant Josh Wise coordinated and conducted staff training for the ULC Part-time clerks at University Park Branch Library. Library Supervisor Marshelle Berry and Training Coordinator Sara Radovic served as training facilitators. Circulation Services Supervisor Ron Block was the guest speaker for the event.

Ms. Berry, who is Mr. Wise’s supervisor, states, “He graciously accepted this assignment and handled it extremely well. This once again proves that leaders can come from any level of the organization.

Ocean Comes Alive at Beaches Library

As part of their summer programming, the Friends of the Beaches Library donated a generous amount of money towards programming. For the fifth year running, the library is proud to host Eco-Ed Science. Eco-Ed conducts science experiments with a small group of children. Each program lasts about an hour and kids all get something to take home. The last workshop was themed for Ocean Exploration and caught the eye of none other than The Florida Times-Union's Shorelines extension staff. They came to watch as professional teacher Jolene Roszel helped kids create an "ocean" in a water bottle, learn the difference between salt and fresh waters, and even toss a beach ball to learn about just how much of Planet Earth is water! Interested in seeing JB make waves? Check out the link:

http://jacksonville.com/community/shorelines/2012-07-14/story/ocean-comes-alive-library-program

Camping Out Condensed

Beaches Branch Library recently hosted a faux camp-out experience for those of us too intimidated to venture out of doors. On June 28, they decided to turn their auditorium into a wilderness and invited attendees to spend an hour doing camp activities. Kids painted pet rocks, some even created wild creations ranging from a purple monster to a gorgeous turtle. They then told scary stories around Miss Dianne's painstaking re-creation of a fire (tissue paper sculpted into roaring "flames"). They delighted in the telling, and you could tell from the giggles that it was less scary than silly. A sing-along is an old camp tradition, and this one was one for the ages as JB let kids have a hand in banging on some drums. And what camp-out would be complete without s'mores? In lieu of melting marshmallows, kids made the gooey concoctions with Marshmallow Fluff! Unfortunately, JB was not able to capture the event on film, but the memory of the day has lasted in kids' minds, as staff has already been asked, "When will we do this again?!"

It's A Dog's Life at the Beach

Beaches Branch is fortunate to have an involved and active community. Local resident Dot Mitchell volunteered to bring Sunshine into the library to listen to children read aloud. Sunshine is a trained therapy dog that lends her services to Patriot Service Dogs and local schools, in addition to being a dedicated library patron. Sunshine has developed quite a following at JB, with devotees returning week after week to tell this Golden Lab what they're reading. In fact, Sunshine's popularity has grown so much that they now give out bookmarks to readers as a makeshift autograph for her fans. And The Florida Times-Union photographers wanted to see this clever girl in action. Sunshine is highlighted on Take Your Dog to Work Day in this T-U photo gallery:

http://photos.jacksonville.com/mycapture/category.asp?eventID=1491861&CategoryID=14346

CM Love & Library Board Vice Chair Skinner Visit Special Services Dept.

Jerry Reynolds, Manager of Special Services, gives this report on an important visit to his department, "Councilman Jim Love (pictured above), who represents District 14, and Library Board Vice Chair Erin Vance Skinner paid a visit to the Special Services Department at the Main Library, July 23.  I extended the invitation predicated on Director Barbara Gubbin’s request for all of us to involve more members of City government in what JPL’s services really entail.

"Councilman Love expressed genuine interest in our outreach to people with disabilities and inquired as to how we get the word out to potential constituents. This is a constant challenge and, of course, if people don’t know about us, we fail in a basic aspect of our mission. We followed through by comparing and contrasting the differences and similarities between Talking Books and Interlibrary Loan, and Councilman Love immediately saw the great value of both of these services. The whole experience, which took the better part of an hour, was highly rewarding. Vice Chair Skinner reinforced what she felt was the importance and value of the work that we do."

Star Reader Draws the Kids at CW

Webb Wesconnett Branch hosted the ever popular Ronald McDonald Program on July 11 when 135 kids enjoyed McD's clown reading for them and a majic show topped off  a fun time.

Kudos from Customers

MAIN LIBRARY: “Kenya Coleman (Children’s), Matthew Moyer (Pop/Fic), Eric Soriano (E-Library), and Chaka Onfroy (Circulation) are all excellent re: customer service and providing help. This library exceeds all expectations and consistently provides excellence.”

MAIN LIBRARY – Special Collections: “I could not have hoped for a better experience. I was a visitor who, over a period of half a year, spent about two months in the Special Collections area. The entire staff of professionals went out of their way to help me find what I needed, use the equipment and look for ways to make my work easier. One librarian in particular, David (Fuller), is a one-man public relations team who never stops working, helping and smiling. I hope you can find a way to acknowledge that. A second, whose name I do not recall (and will locate), was so helpful and has a wonderful sense of humor. Thank you for an unparalleled experience that will make me smile for the rest of my life.”

MAIN LIBRARY – Youth Services: “Susan Mankowski was excellent in the children's library. She went above and beyond.”

MANDARIN BRANCH: “I'm the media specialist at J. Allen Axson Montesori Elementary School, and I wanted to let you know how wonderful Cheryl Callavini is! She voluntarily came to a springtime Storytelling Event at my school and told stories to about 300 people. Her composure, stage presence and professionalism were superb! She was also very kind to do this. As a taxpayer in Duval County, I am thrilled to see such a high level of expertise and commitment in our public employees.”

WEBB WESCONNETT: “Mr. (John) Jessee, Library Worker, was very polite, helpful, and informative on resources and reference materials.”

CW Offers Zombie Program

Webb Wesconnett's Teen Zombie program, July 19, attracted 26 young people who wanted to scare and be scared.  Gator clowns painted their faces deathly white and the kids could dance to "Thriller" and play games such as "How to Survive a Zombie Attack".  Additionally, a Zomibe Backpack survival kit was available for extra protection--and remarkably everyone survived.

Before the fun began, the kids had to do a little research on zombies and plan how to get to a safe place before the zombies arrived.  Lots of zombie books were available to check out and plenty of candy to go around.

First Trip Out of Country? Be Sure To "Ask A Librarian"

Kareem Chambers (pictured beneath the huge robot and with Japanese flag below) now works in Talking Books.  But before he was transferred from Main's Popular & Fiction area, he shared his ten year dream to travel to Japan with a few employees in that department.  After saving for over a year, he made it to "the land the of the rising sun."  Kareem said, "I have always admired its culture, cinema, and beautiful landscape. What inspired me the most was its No. 1 export, Anime (Japanese animation). I feel that I owe accolates to my coworkers for my successful adventure because they gave such good travel advice.  Before I flew to Japan two weeks ago, I had not been on a plane or out of the country.

"Matthew Moyer helped me plan my itinerary. I also spoke with Matt about the things that I would need to carry and places that I should visit. Matt offered advice on how to get around the world’s largest city without spending all the money I had saved. I seemed to be ready to go until I realized that I needed to find a place to stay. Kema DeSagrada-Parker suggested I speak with Becky Jones, a former member of the JPL family who currently lives in Tokyo. They both helped me find an affordable place where I later met and made many friends.  Mitesh Sangani has traveled to many countries and he also had some valuable tips that only a seasoned traveler could share.

"I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun. Not only did I get the chance to go to Akihabara (Anime Town or Electric Town), I also climbed Japan’s highest peak, Mount Fuji, which is still an active volcano.
 
"Each day I searched to find a new dish that I had never tried, such as curry.  I'm not discouraged that I did not get to do and see all the things I wanted to.  I am happy that I was blessed to meet and spend time with such wonderful people from all over the world."
 
It pays to "Ask A Librarian".

Summer Job Tutor Is A Success At EB

Ariana Silas (right), who came to the Brown Eastside Branch Library through the Mayor’s Summer Job Program, is shown tutoring Zaryuana Williams at EB. Ms. Silas is enrolling in Edward Waters College this fall and plans to make teaching her career.  EB's Library Associate Tony Williams reports, "This is Ms. Silas' second year at EB and she has been a strong asset to the branch during her time here."

2012 Battle of the Bands

Education Commissioner Dr. Donnie Horn welcomed teens and kicked off the 2012 Teen Annual Battle of the Bands, June 23; 380 teens attend and six bands performed.    

No Clowning About Cheering Less Fortunate

Pixie the Clown (aka Judy Ricket) performed a special program for 55 school age children and parents, July 3, who enjoyed listening to clown stories and learning how to make balloon animals.  Judy, as Pixie the Clown, shared her inspiring past that proves one can pursue his/her dreams, all the while brightening the lives of others:

"I always wanted to be a clown. When my husband and I moved to Costa Rica, we met a man whose professional clown name is Corn Cobb.  (He performed as a clown inNew Orleans before he came to Costa Rica.)  He gave us clown lessons and I became Pixie and my husband became Bobo. We met a woman by the name of Gail Nystrum, who was the head of the Humanitarian Foundation. We clowned for her with the Orphans of Costa Rica, the Street Children of Costa Rica, Mother Theresa’s Homeless shelter, the 4th of July celebration in the Costa Rica Ambassador’s home with 7000 Americans and many other projects. When we returned to the states four years later, we clowned for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Vets and many others in Palm Coast and Daytona.  In September 2004, my husband died and I continued to clown.  I moved to Jacksonville and I clowned in Southlake Nursing Home, Wyndam Lakes Independent Living and the Alzheimer’s facility with my granddaughter, Kaila Lariviere.  I have been at several schools, the San Marco Library and many other activities such as church, Hastings Juvenile Youth facility and any other voluntary organizations upon request. It is so much fun to clown and bring laughter and pleasure to people. As long as I can be Pixie the Clown, I will. I do not take money for clowning. It is my gift."

WST & MAX Invite You To Their Blog

A little of West Regional's Summer Reading programs, including Star Wars activities. were posted on your JPL Staff News blog, June 26.   Chris Cavan, Librarian Senior, welcomes you to explore more of their interesting stories about SRP programs and photos on WST's blog: http://jplwestkids.blogspot.com/.

Take a trip to Maxville Branch's blog at:
http://maxvillelibrary.blogspot.com.

CW Hosts Dance Competition for Pre-Teens & Teens

Webb Wesconnett Branch hosted a three day competition, June 26-28, concluding with Just dance: Dance off!  A total of sixty pre-teens and teens competed for best dancer.  Candy was the daily prize and the Dance Off! final winner  received an MP3 player.

CW Knows How To Get A BIG Summer Draw

Webb Wesconnett Branch had their pre-School Carnival June 21 with 130 in attendance.  Children could play with ducks in a pool and/or participate in spin art, a lollipop game, tattoos, snow cones, and a Little Debbie cake walk--some needed a little help making the "big" steps--and  Skippy  Jon Jones paid a visit. (Top two photos.)

Prior to that, CW held their Summer Opening Party, June 13, and 126 people dressed up as pirates and hunted for treasure.  Pirate hats, telescopes, tattoos, swords, and eye patches were readymade attire available for those who really wanted to get in gear for the search.  Great fun; great turnout.

Art In The Dark, was CW's June 8th pre-school/family program and 102 kids enjoyed glow in the dark Jell-O, punch, and cupcakes.  Glow-in-the-dark games, crafts, paints, chalk and bubbbles helped make this a big success.