An Act of Kindness That Speaks Volumes

West Regional staff were complimented by a customer who noticed what a big difference their caring made in one appreciative life and the customer emailed Connie Holt, wife of City Council Member Ray Holt, Jr., this recount: 

"The elderly woman in the picture, Helen Ketchie, is our neighbor. She has many health issues, so reading is her life, and a trip to West Regional is her big weekly outing. I guess the staff at West Regional picked up on that, and went above and beyond to make those days much easier and certainly sweeter.

"When Mrs. Ketchie was about to bag up her heavy load of books for the week, a staffer (Wish I'd gotten her name! She is very kind and professional.) stepped away and came back with the rolling book carrier shown in the picture. She said, 'Mrs. Ketchie, on behalf of the staff here, we'd like to present you with this.' They'd noticed she used a cane and struggled with the heavy book bag. In fact, I think they'd been carrying her books to her car sometimes. Wow. I'll bet that's not in the library SOP manual. This is what happens when government employees have the permission to think for themselves and make good decisions.

"I had to ask if I could snap a pic. Look at the I-feel-loved look on this sweet lady's face.  Way to go, West Regional staff! So thankful this is MY library."

Regional Manager Jane Harris said, "The idea for giving the bag came from Noah Thomas (pictured with Mrs. Ketchie above).  The bag was originally owned by Yuri Jewitt, who gave it to Noah since she was not using it."

KR Reaches Out All Summer

Mandarin Library Assistant David Foster recently received a surprise thank you--a colorful writing board--from the Great Strides Academy where David has been presenting an outreach program once a month on Monday mornings.  Monday outreach at Great Strides is a great example of KR's continuing to provide public service to the community despite their being closed to the public on Mondays.

KR: Winning SRP Programs All Along the Way

Thanks to Mandarin Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin, we have a colorful review of their Summer Library programs.

Jackie Meadows was in charge of the BreakSpot Free Summer Lunch Program at the Mandarin Branch where 973 lunches were served to children under the age of 18 from June 11-August 9. 

Local Author T. L. Randall, is pictured above with KR's Children's Library Assistant, David Foster.  Ms. Randall read from her book, Don’t Try to Kiss A Lizard, on August 8.  

Juggler Ron Anglin wowed an audience of 135 children and parents at KR's “Juggle Like An Egyptian” program, July 24, and  Geddy Gecko (first picture above) entertained 69 kids and parents at the Mandarin Branch Library, July 17.

Mandarin Branch Library staff show off their 2013 Summer Reading Visual display of the large JPL Logo.  The multitude of blue and yellow dots represent each book read during the 2013 Summer Reading Program at KR.  Pictured clockwise from left to right:  David Foster, Lisa Veal, Eric Cusaac, Robert Mosley, Diane Lewis, Hongying Song and Stacey Van Hoy.  

What wonderful accomplishments you have to brag about, Mandarin Branch, for your Summer Reading Program! 

DU Plays Mind Games

DU's Beverly Mason reports their "Price Is Right" College Edition program helped keep attendees' minds sharp in preparation for fall classes.  Fun mind exercises included these games:
One Away  - Had to choose the correct call number for an item
Ten Chances - Had to unscramble words
Lucky Seven - They had to guess the gross earnings in the opening of a film.
3 Strikes - Had to put the words in order for our slogan "Start Here Go Anywhere"
The Race Game - Had to choose the correct year 5 colleges were founded
Switch? - Had to determine the correct author of 2 books
Showcase Showdown
And don't forget the final showcase

Prizes for each game won were various school supplies, and the grand prize for the final showcase was a backpack filled  with school supplies.

I Meant To Do My Work Today

JPL's Ed Lein, a librarian at  Main, schedules and is a big proponent for "Music at Main".  He wrote the music for a song, published in May 2013, which was arranged for trumpet and piano. The poem is by Richard Le Gallianne (1892, public domain).  Ed wanted to share it with you, so click on the link:    

http://edwardlein.instantencore.com/web/video_details.aspx?ItemId=1184909

      I Meant To Do My Work Today

I meant to do my work today—
   But a brown bird sang in the apple tree,
And a butterfly flitted across the field,
   And all the leaves were calling me.

And the wind went sighing over the land,
   Tossing the grasses to and fro,
And a rainbow held out its shining hand—
   So what could I do but laugh and go?

                          ----------------

We can all relate to this little ditty at one time or another, Ed, and on weekends and vacation is not a bad thing to do.

NW's Great Program For Youth

NW recently hosted Dr. Arvin Johnson, Northwestern Middle School Principal, and Apryl Shackleford, DCPS Florida Blue Teacher of the Year, to hold a reading discussion for adolescents, "Locking In On Literacy".  The room was filled with avid listeners, grabbing every word these educators had to share.

After the program, everyone shared their take on the program and enjoyed refreshments.  (Thanks to Gloria Buenavista for the input.)

Additionally, DCPS School Board member Paula Wright and State Senator Audrey Gibson both gave brief talks to the students.

Staff Profile

Pictured above at Executive Assistant Andi Hammond's desk in Administration are Mariah Cohen and Damon Edmond, Jr., who agreed to be the subjects for the August "Staff Profile".  Both recently finished their six week assignments working at the Main Library as participants in the Mayor's Summer Job Program.  Damon worked under Andi Hammond's supervision and Mariah worked in Kathy Lussier's department, Community Relations & Marketing.  The summer job initiative was intended to help the teens build character and confidence, gain exposure to careers, and learn real skills for the workplace.  Mariah interviewed herself and Damon to answer the first four questions.

 Q: What did you do?

Mariah: I filed, distributed fliers and posters, set up meetings, helped update the library quarterly report and assisted with an article for the e-newsletter. I worked behind the scenes and observed the financial and creative aspects of the library.

Damon: My main duty was to help assist my supervisor with administrative duties. I filed and helped organize shelves and office supplies.

Q: What did you learn that will help you in the future?

Mariah: I learned to ask questions, to ask for help, to network and talk to people. At first, I’d just do my job and go. As time progressed, I interacted more with my coworkers to initiate meetings and help with projects.

Damon: I want to become a doctor and I know filing is important in the medical field. A coworker said that “filing could make all the difference between life and death.” I will never forget that. The experience was humbling and gave me a small snapshot of corporate America. One positive trait I learned was patience.

Q: What will you remember about this experience?

Mariah: The best thing about it was the people. And the group training we got at the beginning helped prepare me for future endeavors. I left the office every day with a smile on my face; I received sound advice for the work place and for school.

Damon: The people and the skills I’ve learned. My supervisor and coworkers taught me workforce related skills and skills to better myself as a young man

Q: What was the most surprising thing you learned about the library?

Mariah: I learned the library is a lot more than just books! It offers services to everyone. It is a multitude of things—a venue for meetings and weddings, a place for reading and research, a fun day for summer camps and school, and the list goes on. I developed a new appreciation for the library, especially seeing beneficial programs such as Talking Books and CAL.

Damon: The library is closely linked to our city government and it provides a multitude of services for our citizens.

Q:  What is something you want us to remember about you?

Mariah: One thing I would like you to remember is my drive and work ethic.  My dedication to this job/internship comes form wanting to be a role model to my generation and generations to come.  Young women all need a positive, respectable person to look up to and I choose to be that person that helps mold and shape others.  I always had a positive attitude and bright smile on my face, always eager to do what my day and job may bring.

Damon:  I hope you remember that I am a wonderful representation for the future generation.  I was a very hard worker and brought hope that the younger generations would bring forth great workers and role models.

Before their going away party here at Main, four of the youth workers, Damon, Mariah, Lakeisha Wright, and Nala Washington gave a PowerPoint presentation about the "scavenger hunt" assigned to them as their first duty.  The student workers explored downtown Jacksonville and were surpirsed at their many discoveries--a real history lesson that dealighted all of them.  Administration staffs were surprised at the comprehensive, professional presentation these bright young people made.  Yes, we will remember you as good role models for other young people and we appreciate your excellent work ethic.

Busy, Busy At Southeast

Just how busy is SE when UNF tutors are there helping customers? Senior Librarian Anita Haller took pictures every 3 feet in one session recently for us to get an idea of the popularity of these tutoring sessions.  Anita  said, "It is really crazy. We have approximately 118 people here in this session: 27 student teachers, 55 children being tutored, and their parents. There are small groups tucked away down every aisle, nook and cranny."  Fantastic, Anita!

In Memory of Jean Brinkman

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Jean Ulmer Brinkman, who  passed away July 21, 2013.  Our appreciation goes to Sharon Jaskula, Program Manager, Center for Adult Learning, for the memorial to Jean that she contributes here.  Sharon knew Jean well and we asked her if she would write about Jean and her exceptional contributions to this community.

"For long-time members of the library family, those few words of Jean's passing evoked great sadness and stirred memories of a special woman whose legacy continues to impact the quality of life for many in our community.

"Jean Brinkman worked for JPL from 1984 – 2002. Prior to coming to the library, Jean obtained her Masters of Education from UNF and taught learning disabled/special needs students for Duval County Public Schools. In 1984, Jean was hired to coordinate adult literacy services for JPL; her college thesis on computer-assisted learning led to the library’s creation of 'Computers and Literacy', the first program of its kind in Florida to use technology with adult new readers. Computers and Literacy (CAL) was later renamed the Center for Adult Learning, a program that still carries out the mission Jean began nearly 30 years ago.

"As a Jacksonville transplant and a new teacher fresh out of college, I could not have predicted the lessons I would learn from Jean when I began working at CAL in 1987. She was the first real Southern Lady I’d ever met - a woman who still referred to her parents as 'Momma and Daddy' and believed carrying a white handbag after Labor Day was a major faux pas. But it was the way Jean epitomized southern hospitality that forever influenced my view of public service. Jean had a gentle graciousness that was conveyed to every student and visitor who came through our doors. I watched how she approached the unkempt homeless or mentally ill men and women who wandered into our department, how she greeted and attended to them as if they were respected guests in her home. Jean felt a personal responsibility to serve and restore the dignity of those who needed help. Her kindness was humbling.

"Later in her career, Jean took another position with the library, but not after sharing her exceptional teaching and grant writing strategies to ensure the quality and longevity of CAL. In 2002 she retired from the library to spend time with her best friend - her husband, Walt - as they traveled across the country to spend time with their many friends, their two sons, and their grandchildren. Her Facebook page began to fill with pictures of weddings, graduations, reunions, and road trips. A picture of a smiling Jean standing with her family was posted last week, taken just two days before she passed away of Lou Gehrig's Disease.

"A few paragraphs can’t begin to capture what Jean’s work has meant to the thousands of adults who learned to read because of a program she created. When a CAL participant reads to his child for the first time, or passes that supervisors’ exam, or can order from a menu without pictures, he will never know that Jean Brinkman’s life has touched his own. But some of us will never forget.

“ 'Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.' - Martin Luther King Jr."

As you see, Jean Brinkman did not just retire; she was careful to plan for it and made sure she chose a well-deserving, capable person to carry on the kind of work you cannot put a price on and now Sharon Jaskula is doing just that--a proper legacy to Jean Brinkman.

After Jean's work in CAL, she served as an Administrative Assistant focusing on recruitment and training as the library prepared for the system’s expansion as part of The Better Jacksonville Plan (BJP).

Above is a picture of Jean while she was employed with JPL and below you see Jean and her husband, Walt, happy as they can be.  Thank you, Jean, for all you did for so many and especially for mentoring Sharon Jaskula so well.

 
Services are scheduled for 11 a.m., Friday, July 26th, at Riverside Presbyterian Church.  Expressions of sympathy can be mailed to the family:  78 Blackwood Court, Unit A, St. Johns, FL 32259. 

What A Plus For PCR's SRP

Kathy Lussier, Ron Block, and Laura Minnich are to be congratulated on developing a partnership with Alhambra Dinner Theatre to present Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat on July 20 at Pablo Creek Branch Library. The cast also entertained the audience with a song and raffled off a four-pack of tickets.  Children's Senior Librarian Cheryl Callavini reported the audience was thrilled with the performance that was one of their Summer Library Programs.

Pablo Creek Branch's DeLon Rowan Really Digs It

Youth Services Specialist Julie Pactor forwarded the ever-talented, DeLon Rowan's description of her art work for the Summer Reading Program theme, “Dig Into Reading”.  DeLon created a Book Mine to promote SRP, and Children's Librarian Senior Cheryl Callavini asked her to create a mine tunnel for kids to crawl through as part of her Stories for Young Children Program. Children have the opportunity to crawl through the mine at the end of the program. The front of the mine pictured is attached to a long box that creates a tunnel for the kids to crawl through.

Delon created the Book Mine with cardboard for tools, mine roof, and the mine cart, plastic caps for wheels.  She used foam board for books and the front of the mine and styrofoam for coal in the coal car. It was completely comprised of recycled materials--costing the city nothing. DeLon's coal is so real looking, Cheryl said people actually have to touch it to realize it isn't.  DeLon's characters included characters from the “Dig Into Reading” theme.

Pablo Creek's Flower Grows TALL

Julie Pactor forwarded PCR's Library Assistant DeLon Rowan's photos of the Summer Reading Program “visual”. DeLon created a flower with a segmented stem. Each segment of the stem represents 100 books read. The flower had to "grow" from the time that DeLon took the photos to accommodate the number of books read. Two more stems branch off to the other side of the wall with smaller flowers.  

Friends of JPL Announce August Book Sale

The Great Jacksonville Book Warehouse Sale is coming up and it's another opportunity to help raise funds for JPL and give library customers and you a chance to get some books you've always wanted at 50 cents - $2 for most. All sales will be held at The Friends of the JPL, 3435 University Boulevard North (south end of University Park Branch Library.)

August 22 (Thursday): 4 pm -8 pm - Members Night (you can join there) - Buy One, Get  One Free
August 23 (Friday):  4 pm - 8 pm
August 24 (Saturday): 9 am-5 pm

All Sales Listed Below are $10/per bag of books:
August 25 (Sunday): Noon - 5 pm
August 27 (Tuesday): 4 - 7 pm
August 29, (Thursday): 4 pm - 7 pm
August 31 (Saturday): 9 am - 1 pm

Twist and Squeak

Brentwood Branch Library entertained 24 children, July 15, with balloons galore and a chance to see what they could do with them and lo! hats, swords, and something akin to modern art appeared in colorful plenty. 

Thanks to NS' Betty Williams, Library Associate Sr., for this picture. 

Kudos From Customers

Argyle Branch: The staffs of the Argyle Branch (Janet Ducat, Kimberly Kirkland, Angela Gaines, Robin Cumby, Sandra Lockley, and Annie Norris) of the Jacksonville library are very friendly and helpful if and when I need assistance. It's a nice feeling when you enter the library and are addressed by your name when they say good morning.

Beaches Branch: Your reference person, Eva Newton, was delightfully helpful. She walked me through the ILL procedure and when the book was unavailable, she showed me how to suggest a purchase. ...

Highlands Branch: Mrs. Felecia Battle...is an excellent worker and gives great customer service. I come to Storytime every week and I am very pleased with the way she works with the children and makes them feel welcome. She provides the children with educational songs as well as creative crafts my kids love. When she is not in Storytime, she assists me with finding books for my children and helps my kids on the Internet or on the Kidsmart computers. She makes the children's department very colorful and friendly with her amazing displays. ... My kids and I look forward to seeing her when we visit…

Regency Square Branch: Mia Brack in the Children's Library at Regency did a fantastic Friday morning Storytime! Both my daughters (2 1/2 & 1) really enjoyed it. The craft project she put together was also wonderful. Mia was able to hold the attention of a room full of children 4 years old and younger.

Willowbranch: I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the hard work, patience, and customer courtesy of Kathleen Brunner and Janice Adams at the Willowbranch Library in helping resolve some fines and checking in books.

April-June 2013 Innovator Award Winners

Our third quarter Innovator Award Winners not only "Dig Into Reading", they are making a big difference in the efficiency of JPL service and adding to the quality of life for many customers.  They think and act "outside the box". Above is one of the IA winners, Gloria Armstrong.  Don't miss all of these employees' accomplishments; you might find an idea or two for your library, too, by visiting Innovator Awards on JPL Neighborhood.

THE WINNERS ARE:

GLORIA ARMSTRONG, Library Assistant, Brentwood Branch

KRISTI DORNEY, Librarian, San March Branch

LUIS FLORES, Assistant Director for Facilities Management

ANITA HALLER, Librarian Senior, Children's Dept., Southeast Regional

GAVIN LAMBERT, former Sr. Library Associate, Beaches Branch 

ELLIS LEWIS, Processor, Collection Mangement, SST

JULIE REKOW, Part-Time Library Associate, Beaches Branch

TERRY WELCH, Library Clerk, Beaches Branch

Below are some of the staff that garnered a crowd of 1180 for Beaches Branch ComicCon, May 4, and preempted that with unique advertising, including a sandcastle on the beach at the Jacksonville Beaches annual opening--and 3 staff members won an Innovator Award for their outstanding contributions to this huge "first" for JB.

Congratulations, encore, whistles--and we can't wait to see what you do next!

Thought You'd Heard It All?

WST's Aracelis Diaz reports on their June 14 SRP Kick Off, "It was a great afternoon at West Regional. Mr. Al (Hampstead) delighted the crowd with his musical instruments and folk songs.  Hampstead Stage Company presented a play, "Secret Garden", and Ron Anglin juggled. Adding to the special entertainment that 140 attendees enjoyed, customers of all ages could indulge themselves in other crafts, light refreshments, and Worm Races; yes, you got it right:  WORM RACES! It Was A Great Afternoon at the West Regional Library indeed."

State Rep. McBurney Visits SOM's SRP

South Mandarin Branch Manager Keli Likins sent in two pictures of State Representative Charles McBurney’s visit to their lirary for the Summer Reading Program hosted by the Jax Zoo. Keli said, "It was a successful program with 108 kids and parents in attendance. Special thanks go out to Anita, Michelle and Lily for making this and many other fun events at the library possible this summer.
 

Pretty Lady; Proud Day

 

Marshelle J. Berry, CW Region Manager, proudly shares her Mother's recent accomplishment.  Mrs. Alma Smith was 2nd Runner-up in the Ms. Senior Jacksonville Pageant held on June 29th. She also enjyed a surprise visit by Jacksonville Jaguar Justin Blackmon.

JB Reminder: You Really Can Start Here - Go Anywhere

This delightful sign was created by Julie Rekow and patron Ed Fenton for the Beaches Branch Library! Start here – go anywhere!

Thanks to Theresa Welch for sending the picture for the blog.

Staff Profile

Andi Hammond is Director Gubbin's Executive Assistant.  Andi absorbs information lightening speed and is no slouch in getting things done and done well.  Andi laces her work with grace and a sense of humor and she's an anchor in a crunch.  Here she is pictured with her long-time boyfriend, Chris.

Tell us about your varied work experience and how that has been a rich resource to you as Director Gubbin’s Executive Assistant.

Throughout undergrad and graduate school I worked part time at a wine store and wine bar. There I learned that I love event planning and was able to develop several programs (classes, parties, tastings, etc.) which taught me the importance of planning and having contingency plans. I started working at an upscale hotel right after I graduated from college. That experience taught me the importance of customer service, never saying “no” to a customer but rather finding them an alternative when needed, and how to work with difficult customers. I returned to school to get my M.S. in recreation therapy, after which I worked with veterans with traumatic brain injuries, post traumatic stress disorder, and addictions. When I moved to Jacksonville I continued my work in drug and alcohol treatment and mental health in general. The biggest take-away from that that I can use in my current position is the importance of stress and time management. Being able to take care of yourself means that you are more able to help others when they need it. I focused a lot on stress management, relaxation, and mindfulness with my patients—that has helped me personally to stay in the moment and not sweat the small stuff.

Not having a library background, what has been most helpful to you in acclimating to the world of libraries?

I know most people dread meetings. But, when I first came to the library, I asked to be allowed to go to as many meetings as I could. It is important that I have a big picture view of the library as well as understand the day-to-day activities that go on so that I am better able to anticipate what the director needs and the needs of the administrative team and the Board. Talking to people and listening to everything that was going on really helped me to figure out my way around library language—although there are still times I find myself jumping on Google to figure out just WHAT people are talking about!

You have been in JPL during the most traumatic budget conditions. What aspect(s) stand out to you as being critical in getting through these times?

The resiliency of the staff has really been what has gotten the library through the last few years. It’s incredibly difficult to do your job well when there is so much uncertainty hanging in the air. The fact that staff are able to continue to do what they do—and do it so well—is a huge testament to what this library is about. I think that support from each other is going to be critical in continuing to deliver the high level of service staff do.

What is your key to success?

Organization. Hands down organization has been the biggest factor in being successful in any job that I have ever worked. Being organized means I can work more efficiently and effectively. Luckily for me I’m naturally organized (and actually enjoy doing it.) Working on the SDD committee this year was a lot of fun for me because I got to organize an entire event! To me, having a well thought-out plan helps deal with any changes or wrinkles that may happen. If you have a solid base, it’s much easier to make adjustments than if you are making decisions at the last minute. And, as we are all aware, changes happen constantly and on the drop of a dime.

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

I am a singer. Not a great one, but I do love to sing and perform. I began singing when I was in elementary school with my church choir and continued on to now singing with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus. I’ve had several very cool opportunities thanks to my involvement in different choirs. The two coolest that I can think of are very different from each other. The first was in high school when I got to sing as part of the back-up choir for Shania Twain when she performed in my hometown. The other was getting to tour through Germany for 20 days with my choir in college. We got to perform in some of the most beautiful, historic churches—I even cried in the middle of one performance because it was so amazing. Just don’t ever ask me to sing karaoke—I won’t do it!

JPL Staffs' Contributions to Community Health Charities - 2013

Caring JPL staff donors to Community Health Charities for 2013 gave a total of $2,327.  You took the opportunity to benefit research and many people suffering from a wide range of diseases. 

THANK YOU TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU WHO GAVE!

Main Library Staff & Family Art Show Is Up At Main

Main Library's Marie Myers apprises us that the JPL Staff Art show is up at the Main Library and opening night is tonight, Wednesday, July 3, 20l13, for Art Walk.

Photography will be exhibited on the 2nd floor of the Main Library and all other art, such as paintings, drawings, and watercolors can be seen on the 3rd floor.  This exhibit includes art done by employees and  family members named below:

Cranston Burney (Main)
      Mia E. Clark (Main)
Ryan Fix (Main)
      Josh Jubinsky (Main)
Ed Koehler (family)
      Ed Lein (Main)
Marie Andrée (Main)
      Tony Miller (Main)
Rick Minor (family)
      Heather Perry (Main)
Allison Pulley (Main)
      Julie Rekow (Beaches branch)
Mike Shell (Main)

The art show will be up until the end of July so you have plenty of time to enjoy it and bring your family for a special treat.

Friends of SOM Hold Two-Day Book Sale

Friday, June 28, and Saturday, June 29, the Friends of South Mandarin Branch Library conducted a very successful Book Sale, popular with both adults and children, as you see.  Thanks to Branch Manager Keli Likins for the photo and heads up.

Bugs Invade NW

NW Library Associate Senior, Gloria Buenavista, reports that 29 kids participated in the “Bugs Story Time" presented by Stephanie Miller, Children's Librarian Senior, July 2, 2013 as part of NW's Summer Reading Program activities.  Mrs. Buenavista said, "What was planned as an hour long event had to be extended another 20 minutes because the kids were really into their bug making and did not want to quit."

The kids also enjoyed songs, finger plays and stories about bugs. As you see, the children did a wonderful job making their own personal bugs that were constructed out of colored egg cartons, pipe cleaners, etc.

Sen. Aaron Bean Reads 3 Stories at Mandarin Branch

Mandarin Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin and her employees enthusiastically hosted State Senator Aaron Bean on June 20, 2013.  Sen. Bean was the guest reader for their 11:00 a.m. Stories for Young Children Program at KR.

Sen. Bean read Lola at the Library, by Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw, in which children learn that Lola’s is a family of readers.  He followed with Reading Makes You Feel Good, by Todd Parr, a story that reminds us that we can read anywhere.  Sen. Bean concluded his readings with Lola Reads to Leo, in which Lola has grown up more and now she reads to her brother.  Sen. Bean encouraged audience participation and families echoed his statement, “Reading makes you feel good because… and you can read anywhere!”. Sen. Bean held a quiz before the arts and crafts portion of the program. His emphasis was on reading comprehension questions based on the books that he read.  Families were rewarded with snacks that the senator had brought for this event.

Branch Manager Baldwin said, "Senator Bean remained with us as we made our own books, and he happily posed with one of our students so that mom could get a photo. We had 53 in attendance."  The KR staffs and Region Manager Michael Sullivan were happy to have their photo made with Sen. Bean, too.

CW's TumbleBooks Program Kicks Off

CW Region Manager Marshelle Berry is proud of Charles Webb Library Associate Christie Rogers, who shares the joy of reading using TumbleBooks, the animated e-books database for kids. She created this special pilot program, which was held June 19, as part of the Summer Reading events. Kids and parents enjoyed learning to use the database. Christie plans to do more e-book programs for kids in the fall using the new Electronic Classroom at Webb.

Congratulations, Christie, on a red hot idea!

DU Kicks Off SRP With Teen Cookout

Highlands Branch Library held a "Teen Cookout Kickoff", June 13, as their first Summer Reading Program.  Hosted by DU staffs, Beverly Mason, Cheron Williams, and Dana Curry, they and two parents saw 20 teens enjoy games such as Wii, Xbox, and board games, including Sorry and Connect Four, complemented with plenty of food: chicken wings, fries, nachos, fruit, and lil Debbie snacks.  One teen also received the first prize for their summer teen trivia questions.

Preceding treats, games, and door prizes teens received a summary of the Teen Summer Reading Program, including how to sign up and the need to log in the books that are read each week so the tPens can be entered into various drawings.

Kudos from Customers

Murray Hill Branch: The staffs at the Murray Hill Library (Raymond Neal, Chiquita Powell, Douglas Fair, Margaret Esposito, Mary Fletcher and Cheyla Scantling) are exceptional. They are very helpful and always willing to help.

South Mandarin, Webb Wesconnett; West Regional: Re: Spanish computer classes: I love to see the teachers, Luis Terron (volunteers at several branches), Angela Richman (SOM), Aracelis Diaz (WST) and Jessica Serrano (CW). I would like to compliment the services they have offered me.

Southeast Branch: Audience Program Evaluation - Intro to MS Excel May 21, 2013: What did you like best about the program? The instructor (Donna Peretzman) – Super.

Willowbranch Branch: I left a death certificate on the copier and Troy Eittreim contacted me and kept it safe until I could return for it. He has helped me previously when the printer was temperamental and took quite a while to print a long document, but he helped throughout with several jams, working right up until closing time to make sure I got what I had paid for.

Honoring The Life Of Vondera Brown

Kind, loyal, dedicated--just a few adjectives that describe Vondera Brown.  Her presence will be missed by her family and many coworkers and friends. 

Hard Work Reaps An Award

Northwest Branch's Gloria Buenavista is proud to share her family's recent celebration of her son, Jay-Jay, being honored as a Middle School Scholar for maintaining a 3.5 GPA throughout his middle school years at Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School of the Medical Arts.  He was presented the Eighth Grade Scholar Award at First Coast High School, May 21, 2013.  Jay-Jay is the handsome guy pictured next to his award.

Gloria reports that Jay-Jay is also volunteering at Highlands Branch this summer.

KR Kicks-Off SRP Joyfully!

The Mandarin Branch Library celebrated Summer Reading 2013 with a Kick-Off Party on Tuesday, June 11, 2:00 -3:00 pm.  In one hour, 72 children registered for the Summer Reading Program with 99 customers enjoying the festivities. (Pictured L/R:  David Foster,Frances Wickes, and Hongying Song.)

The Golden Girl

Have you ever met a techie whiz with a bubbly personality, who can’t help helping others and sees a brick wall as a monumental opportunity to overcome and succeed in life? If you have, you know Ayshea Golden, who will make another upward move this summer after she leaves JPL on June 30.  Before she leaves JPL, we wanted to share a little about a real Golden Girl.  (Ayshea is pictured with her five boys in front of the White House in a recent visit to D. C. Their favorite spot: the Lincoln Memorial.)

Ayshea began as a Library Assistant at Southeast Branch, November 2004, in the children’s department. She moved to Pablo Creek’s children’s department during SE’s renovation in 2005 and later that year helped with the original setup of South Mandarin Branch in preparation for their grand opening. She promoted to Clerical Support Specialist in July 2006 and began working in JPL’s Human Resource department located in the Main Library, reporting to Diane Moser. In October 2007, in conjunction with the city’s reorganization, Ayshea served as the point of contact for JPL until June 2011 when she transferred to the city’s examining team. Ayshea reports she was officially laid off from her civil service position effective September 30, 2012, just shy of eight years with COJ. Shortly thereafter, Ayshea began working temporarily assisting JPL Deputy Director Carolyn Williams.

In August 2013, Ayshea will be a full-time student at FSCJ and will complete her general credits there and plans to transfer them to UNF’s Computer Science program. Ayshea said, “I am unsure where that degree will lead me but I am willing to come back to COJ, if the right opportunity presents itself in a more feasible environment.”

To see Ayshea Golden only behind a desk, you would observe her creativity and bright mind but you might miss the better part of her world. Wayne and Ayshea ‘s family remind you that good discipline, equally mixed with TLC and healthy leisure, still make a well-balanced, happy home. You have to see it to believe how well it works--but there they are: Twins, Anthony and Matthew, 16; William, 15, Dante 13 and Christopher, aged 7. Their handsome, well-educated, well-mannered sons are living proof of what great parents can do. And Ayshea would say, “Who said it couldn’t be done?”

Anyone who can do that can aspire to great heights in a business career and attain it. We’re cheering you on, Ayshea.

YEA! THEY'RE ONTO "DIG INTO READING " AT WEBB WESCONNETT!

Marshelle Berry, Webb Wesconnett Region Manager, is happy to report this great start at Webb Wesconnett Branch's Summer Reading Program.  What's the response at your branch? Send in your good news!

Staff Profile

Keli Likins recently became the new Librarian Senior/Branch Manager at South Mandarin Library after managing the Main Library's Teen Department.  Apart from working hard, Keli knows how to round out her life with family and fun things like enjoying a Jaguars game.  Remember that beautiful shot of her with her newborn son, Benny, in August 2011?  Since Benny is now a year and ten months old, we asked for a recent picture of their son and it is on the "gadget side" of the blog. 

After managing Main’s Teen Department for six years, you recently became South Mandarin’s Branch Manager. What strategies were useful to you transitioning from managing the Main Library’s Teen Department to being a branch manager?

I think having experience at the Main Library is beneficial to all employees. You become very familiar with all possible scenarios with the customers, policies and procedures. It was also a great opportunity to get to know those staff members in the behind the scenes departments like CR&M and Facilities. I became very familiar with not only Teen, but youth services in general, which I think has come in handy as a Branch Manager now that services to youth is one of the library system’s top priorities. I also gained valuable experience supervising staff and delegating work.

What services do you see as the most important to SOM customers?

Many of our customers have e-reading devices so it’s important that we all have the knowledge of how to download e-books and can assist them.  Customers also enjoy the services of our E-Specialist, Donna Peretzman, and greatly value our Children’s collection and programming. Story times are well attended and customers always have high praise for them and the Children’s Department staff. There are a lot of high school and college students in the area, who are grateful for our research services and resources, so I think continuing to raise awareness about them and working with the local schools is important. We also have a large retired population here that, I think, generally just enjoy the free books for pleasure reading.

What is your goal for further improvement of SOM’s services?

I think SOM’s services can be improved through creating new, and expanding on current, community partnerships. Other improvements that come to mind are related to technology, so of course, we will have to wait for the proper funding so that the whole library system can get up to speed. The staff here at SOM are fantastic and already provide great costumer service.

What are the leadership and management skills necessary to manage a library?

I always try to keep my staff happy and motivate them. One way to do that is to give them as much creative control and decision making as possible. I am a huge proponent of initiative and exceptional customer service. I am learning more about becoming an effective leader in this year’s Sunshine State Leadership Institute. One thing we have been learning about is leaning into discomfort, which is when you feel like you are out of your depth because you are learning something new. For me, that is learning all the ins and outs of the money. You also have to have a certain level of resiliency, which I believe I have.

Who are a couple of the leaders/managers in history that you think are/were most important and why?

I look up to female leaders in politics such as Sandra Day O’Connor, Madeline Albright, and Margaret Thatcher. Not only did they do a great job but they inspire other women to be all that they can be, in whatever field or career they are interested in.

June Is Bustin' Out All Over For Tammy Crotts

Tamara (Tammy) Crotts' parents, Bill and Joanne Talbott, celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary with their family, June 2, 2013. 

Tammy  will celebrate her 50th birthday, June 16.

And she looks forward to our congratulating her on 20 years with JPL as a part-time temporary clerk on June 28.

What Is Gail Marion Doing Now?

We have an action packed update from retired JPL Librarian, Gail Marion.  For those who had the privilege of working with Gail, you know she is a straight shooter, who could see through thick walls of "smoke" with X-ray vision, never ran short on IQ and can jog through the swamps of life with a great sense of humor.

I understand Gail is a Mandarin Branch customer now.

"Hello Fellow JPL Retirees, Ole (not old) Friends & Current Staff:

"I retired from JPL in June 2005 as a Librarian at Bradham Brooks Northwest Branch Library. I retired on a Friday but was working full-time on Monday with a proprietary trade school. In that first year, I also worked part-time at Jones College and Florida Technical College as their Librarian. In November 2006, I started at Everest University - Orange Park Campus as their Librarian and I am still there in charge of their Library/Resource Center. Instead of being "an Army of One", I am a "Library of One Staff." I have now drummed up enough customer usage and business for the Library to get a full-time Library Assistant this July. I enjoy learning something new daily as we have associate & bachelor degree programs in criminal justice and business and several diploma programs in trades, allied health and office administration. I enjoy the wide range of research & reference work I get to do assisting the students. Our military & veteran student population is increasing so I created a Veteran's Resource Center in the Library. I work with my comrades-at-arms to get them to local resources and networking services available to them. I belong to and attend many local military/veterans associations and groups such as the Northeast Florida Veteran's Association and Jacksonville Military Veterans Coalition, etc. My volunteer work and community involvement is dedicated to their causes & concerns.

"I cannot report too much about my military career, as the cliché goes "if I tell you anymore, I will have to kill you." I served with a Signal Detachment in West Palm Beach, FL as the XO and then Commander. I was also the XO and Director of the Directorate of Information Management with a Garrison Unit in West Palm Beach, FL. Our mobilization site was at and out of Ft. Stewart, GA. Being a Signal Corps Officer, my assignments were all classified and Top Secret, in the field areas of communication intelligence and signal security. I was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) but did not hold the rank for a full year when my mandatory retirement date came so I retired as a Major on May 31, 2012. I was put on orders for the day to retire at Ft. Stewart, GA, with a very dignified and memorable retirement ceremony. I had a cannon salute, honor guard, and all the works. What was very touching, was I received many challenge coins from the brigade soldiers & cadre performing the ceremony. They even produced a DVD of my 30-yr career in photos and showed it; few attending were even born in 1970 and were awe struck that I had lasted through the changing & challenging times of the 1970's on active duty U.S. Army, Florida Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve. Some soldiers needed a history lesson on Vietnam era veterans - did not know females served during that era ?! After 30-years of total service, retirement from the military is bitter sweet but that monthly pay check, health benefits, military discounts, etc. is nice.

"My military retirement day also happened on a birthday milestone, with me turning OH NO, 60! But, I was so honored and excited that day that I forgot all about that. I will take those "senior citizen" discounts too.

"I am currently working full-time so I don't have any exotic travel ventures to report. I am off every Friday at 2:00 p.m. and have every weekend off so it's like I am on vacation weekly after all those years of working Saturdays & Sundays for JPL. I am a Gemini so have many eclectic activities & interests to enjoy - reading (of course), photography, movies, historical & cultural events, concerts, symphony, NASCAR and car shows, art museums, etc. I recently went on a 2 1/2-hr cruise on the St. Johns River, from The Landing, on the retired Presidential yacht, Honey Fitz.

"My cat Reagan would like me to totally retire and become his maid but I am not sure when or if that will happen. I trust that all my fellow JPL retirees are in good health and enjoying themselves and best wishes to all current JPL staff. Anyone may "Friend Request" me on Facebook or email me at majgmarion@yahoo.com.

"Regards & Best Wishes,

MAJ Gail E. Marion, USA, Ret."

_____________________________________

Thank you for your letter, Gail, and your years of service to JPL.  Most of all, please accept our deep appreciation for your devoted years of service to our country.  Stay in touch and come see us when you can.

3 More Days To Get a Bag Full Of Books For $10

You and your customers have three days left to take advantage of the $10/bag book sale at the Friends Warehouse at University Park Branch Library:

On these dates you can get a Bag of Books for $10:

May 28 (Tuesday) – 4:00 to 7:00 PM
May 30 (Thursday) – 4:00 to 7:00 PM

June 1 (Saturday) – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Need more information? Visit the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library website (fjpl.org) or call
630-2304.

Life As A CAL Instructor

Katie Bark, Literacy Program Specialist (left) in the Center for Adult Learning, gets a huge hug from Victoria M., a student Katie worked with at the Community Transition Center. With Katie’s help, Victoria passed the GED exam and recently received her high school diploma.  Three other inmates in Katie’s classes at CTC also received their diplomas in May.  Katie’s genuine love for her students and her belief in “second chances” brings many ex-offenders back to the Library for continuing education, emotional support and career guidance.  Way to go, Katie!