AND THE WINNERS ARE:

Alvin (A.J.) Joyner - Winner: Employee of the 1st Quarter - FY 2015, and Winner of the Model the Way Award: 
Library Assistant A.J. assisted when Library Clerical Supervisor Carolyn Woods was out.  Why A.J.?  He has leadership qualities and knowledge of the Books on Belt (BOB) area of SST.  A.J. insured the proper flow of materials, kept others focused on tasks at hand, answered co-workers Q's and knew when to take matters to Charlene Adkins or Jill Haile.
(Read more about A.J. in the February Staff Profile on this blog.)

Margo Crafton - Winner: Encourage the Heart Award
SOM's YS Librarian II Margo brings in goodies to recognize birthdays, retirements, and for staff and volunteer appreciation.  Plus, she has an eagle eye for anything extra to be done and by her consistent willingness to "keep the show running", her actions encourage employees to follow her example.  Margo is a real team member.

Aubrey Winship - Winner: Model the Way Award:
Executive Assistant 1 Aubrey has set high expectations for building related issues in JPL's Facilities.  Urgent issues get special attention and follow-ups to ensure satisfactory resolution.  Aubrey was instrumental in helping the Conference Center/Admin team resolve pesky problems during meetings and suggested improvements for Main's Courtyard.

Tammy Hilbert - Winner: Encourage the Heart Award: 
KR's P/T Library Clerk Tammy boosts team morale with her recipes baked to perfection (cakes, pies, cupcakes), balloons and homemade cards for employees' special occasions--all at her expense. She also helps decorate KR for holidays and lifts the spirits and morale of her co-workers and customers alike because she really cares about people.
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Sorry folks; Google has not yet made it possible to save pictures to this side of the blog; however, pictures of each winner receiving his/her award from Director Gubbin and Library Board Chair Erin Skinner are posted on the gadget side to the right.

Happy Valentine's Day

NW's Sheenae Nelson and Gloria Buenavista did a craft program for children on Valentine’s Day. They brought out the duct tape and colored paper and demonstrated how to make flowers with pens/pencils as stems.  The best part, as Gloria reports: no pollen; no sneezing. Enjoy the bouquet! (At right, on gadget side.)

Make Someone Happy

Highlands Branch Manager Kristi Dorney, says "Tyneshia Matthews and Annie Norris arranged for the Highlands Branch Library staff to thank Joel Thorbs for all that he does. A beautiful fruit bouquet was delivered to Joel on February 11."

 

Justin Keiser Wins SST's Owly

Gretchen Mitchell, Assistant Director for Support Services, reports, "Congratulations to Justin Keiser for winning the SST Owly.  Randy Mapanoo passed on the honor to Justin because:
 
Justin 'should be recognized for bringing to reality the idea of digitally preserving family photos at JPL.  It is a big task to research the equipment needed.  It also takes a lot of time and effort to learn about the hardware and software well enough to train customers on it. The amount of requests that have come in is evidence that this is a service that people want, but have little access to.'”
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A picture of Justin Keiser with the SST Owly is on the gadget side.

Staff Profile - February 2015

Library Assistant Alvin (A.J.) Joyner is down to earth, witty, and doesn’t miss much going on around him. A.J. won the Model the Way and Employee of the Quarter Awards for the first quarter of 2015. A.J. will be honored at JPL’s Board meeting, February 11, 2015, along with other winners. A.J. takes his work seriously and, in addition to doing his job well, he filled in for Clerical Supervisor Carolyn Woods for a while recently during her absence. 
 

Q: You’ve been with JPL a long time and worked in several areas.  Where and when did you begin working with JPL and what has been your progress?

A: I started at Eastside Branch as a Page in 1988. I worked in circulation as a part-time shelver until EB began its renovation in 1993 as part of The Better Jacksonville Plan. Then I moved to the Distribution Department, housed at the old Main Library and drove a truck (JPL did its own distribution back then), and delivered materials to all the branches. In 2002, I transferred to the Bookmobile and served as a clerk and drove the Bookmobile from 2002-2004. Six months after transferring, the Bookmobile was discontinued. I moved back to EB and worked there from 2004-2008 and was promoted to Library Assistant there. In 2008, I was transferred to Graham Branch, stayed there eight months, and then on to SST where I have been until now.
 
Q: How does your prior experience help you in your position of Library Assistant in SST?

A: Before coming to JPL, I worked in a warehouse while attending FCCJ. Having worked in different areas of JPL over the years, I met most of the staff when I made deliveries, and I became familiar with the libraries' individual needs and this helps.  Now, I receive and input materials into the computer, making sure items and quantities are correct and that books aren't damaged.  I also distribute circulation supplies throughout the system--stickers, books, etc.

Q:  You filled in for the Clerical Supervisor for Acquisitions, Processing and Linking areas of Support Services when needed recently, in addition to your usual duties.  How did you manage that?

A:  Our employees are deft in their everyday responsibilities. When necessary, they would report any problems/needs to me.  If I could handle something, I did, and as needed, I referred matters to Jill Haile, Librarian III, or to Charlene Adkins, Library Supervisor for Collection Management, and one of them would get back to me as to what to do. Our staff and I have learned good organizational skills, which helps when you juggle different tasks.  Our team is reliable and works well together.  They made it much easier to stay on schedule, and everything was caught up when the Clerical Supervisor returned to work. 

 Q: Name a change you have seen in your area that is beneficial to JPL?

A: The Books On Belt (BOB) area where I work is, in part, efficient because Carolyn Woods, the Clerical Supervisor, listens to suggestions and incorporates them whenever possible.  

Q: What is your favorite pastime?

A:  Spending time with family and friends and watching basketball.

Coaches Score Win At KR Story Time

KR Manager Lynne Baldwin said, "Coach Adam and Coach Mike from My Gym took the reins for our January 29, 11 am story time at the Mandarin Branch Library. The kids had a blast learning new songs, watching a puppet show, and playing fun games; 64 children and parents attended and are excited for a return visit in April."
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See group shot to right on "gadget" side of this blog.

SE Region News

The SE Region has partnered with the Alden Road Exceptional Student Center on several projects.  SOM’s Bryan Thomas represents the Region at the monthly SAC Meetings, Mandarin hosted a student art show and reception in November, South Mandarin will be hosting another student art show and reception in February and San Marco is a volunteer work partner with the school.  On Thursday, January 29, the Region showed their support of the school and their students at their bi-weekly meeting by combining business and good food.  The SE Region Branch Managers and Region Manager Michael Sullivan enjoyed a delicious lunch of soup and salad prepared by Alden Road students as a part of the school’s Community Based Vocational Education program (CBVE) and their on campus School Based Enterprises, which operates businesses that produce and sell products made by the students.  Students are taught skills including business operations, crayon and homemade paper making, gardening, furniture refurbishing, soap and accessory creations, crafts and candy making, baking and short order cooking, thrift store operations, video production and recycling. 

Big thanks to Michael Sullivan and Anita Haller for organizing the lunch and their ongoing support of the Alden Road Exceptional Student Center.
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Please see picture on right, "gadget side" of this blog.

New Idea Helps NS Customers

Pat Morrisson and Betty Williams are proud of Part-time Clerk David Stevenson.  David received an Innovator Award for his work with the DVD’s at the Brentwood Branch, January 27.  Betty said, "After noticing that customers often preferred to look on the pre-shelving cart for DVD’s to check out, David decided to “merchandise” them along the top shelf.  Many customers look there first.  He is always trying to think of solutions to challenges.  Great work, David! "

JB's International Day Program A Success

JB Branch Manager Tamera Branam, brags on Padma Subramanian's latest program, Saturday, January 24th,  "In the past Padma created a program called Experience India to share her culture and country with customers. It occurred to her that it would be an interesting program to expand and include other countries, and she suggested having an International Culture Day program.  Padma contacted volunteers to represent other countries, and let them share their culture, customs, food, and history. USA, Japan, Italy,  England, Africa and India were represented.   Each country held a mini talk, craft, demonstration or dance native to their country.   The local Boy Scout troop began the program with an American flag ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance, and our National Anthem was performed on piano by Eli Miles.  Food samples were also given out. This program was a resounding success, thanks to Padma’s hard work and vision--290 attended!

Thanks to Terry Welch for the timeline:  "During the day, each country was highlighted:

• Native American Bookmark Craft by Library Associate Gail Blumberg and her teen volunteers (USA)
• Pasta Making Demonstration by Flavia Bowling (Italy)
• Indian Dancing by members of the Indian Cultural Society and Tamil Manram of Jacksonville (India)
• Origami Demonstration by Elsie Oishi (Japan)
• Video and Discussion by Richard Crook (UK)
• Talk by Deloris Hicks (Africa)"

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NOTE: Please see pictures on the right ("gadget") side of the blog.  We still cannot get pictures to post on this left side and the blog owner has not addressed the problem yet.

JPL Staff Association Kick Off Held 1/25/15

JPL Region Manager, Marshelle J. Berry, reports, "The Staff Association Kick-off social at Latitude 360, Sunday, January 25, 2015, went well.  There were extra game cards so attendees (especially the kids) played an abundance of games.   There were lots of cake and prizes.  COMING SOON:  The election of officers!"

2015 Retiree Reunion At SE, 2-4, 2/20/15

Elsie Oishi, former JPL Senior Librarian announces, "The 2015 reunion of JPL retirees and former long-time staff will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015, at the Southeast Regional Branch Library from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

"This will be a time to chat with old friends from the library system in an informal atmosphere.  Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP by Friday, February 13, 2015, to Carole Schwartz Moore (dorieblu@gmail.com,  or phone 234-4533), or Elsie Oishi (ejoishi@aol.com, phone 249-6025).

"At the 2014 JPL Reunion "Tea" there were 50 former library colleagues in attendance, and it was great to see everyone there. This year we look forward to add to this number with those who could not make it last year in addition to the newly retired during the past year.  Hope to see you there!"

CW Hosted Kids Who Made A Winter Wonderland

The children from the Cedar Hills Elementary Cathedral Arts program made the children’s department at Webb Wesconnett a little brighter this holiday season.  A multidisciplinary project was created by children in the after school arts program. Children in the program read the story “Night City” by Monica Wellington and talked about city planning. They used inspiration from the book and their own experiences to create their own recycled city featuring pet motels, hotels, rest homes and houses. While they were creating, they also incorporated their math knowledge by creating arrays to display multiplication knowledge. To populate the city, the children created figures inspired by Guatemalan worry dolls. For the backdrop of their city, the children created a painting inspired by the whirls and swirls of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic painting, Starry Night. (NOTE: please see gadget side for picture since blogger server will not save pics on this side at present.)

The city shows a lot of attention to detail and dedication. Visitors to the department were very impressed to see the hard work of the children.

Also enhancing the department in December were some recycled paper Christmas trees. The trees were folded by the children’s staff and then decorated by children throughout the month.
 

Clarice the Reading Reindeer (a delightful stuffed reindeer) spent time at the Children’s Desk at CW, encouraging children to read. Kids were very excited to see her in the department. We were sad to see Clarice leave after the holidays but she'll be back next year--and maybe a replacement friend will be found to keep the children’s staff company.

Thanks to Michelle Petrin for the article.

They’re Here: Black History Month Calendars

The 2015 Jacksonville Black History Calendar was presented January 15) in an evening program at Main Library.  More than 200 people braved the inclement weather to witness the unveiling.  Ms. Gubbin brought greetings and board member Dr. Brenda Simmons-Hutchins presided.  Special thanks to the JPLers who helped either in the production  of the calendar or helped manage crowd control and distribution on the day of the event – Cranston Burney; Arthur Finley; Denise Thomas, CAL; Theresa Bascom, Main-Circulation; Evelyn Rockwood, Main-Non-Fiction; and Melony Kerr, Special Collections. 

Calendars should arrive at the branches by the end of this week or early next week. Thank you, Arthur and Cranston, for packing and labeling the shipment.  The same rules of distribution apply – your supply of calendars should last through the end of February.  Use your discretion for requests greater than five or ten copies.  Contact Arthur, Cranston, or Pat if you need more.  We will do what we can while supplies last.  Feel free to redistribute within your region.

 

The calendars will be available at area Burger King restaurants by February 1^st.  

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PLEASE NOTE: Presently the blogger server to transfer pictures to this side of the blog is not working.  Pics will post on the gadget side and a pic of the calendar is there.

JB Is Winner of Random House Prize Pak

Terry Walsh brags a bit, "The Beaches Branch was a lucky winner of a Random House prize pack in honor of Jane Austin’s birthday!  We are currently plotting  our own contest for a patron to win the prize pack. "

Kudos From Customers - January 2015

Main Library – Reference:  I commend Ed (Lein) in the Reference Desk Department for helping me today with a very difficult problem with my overdrive on Kindle audio books while simultaneously taking care of customers in a wait line. This was extremely important to me inasmuch as with so many appointments coming up, I would not be unable to visit the library for a very long time. Thanks again, to Ed.

Brentwood Branch: Better than any other JPL I've been to. The staffs (Betty Williams, Gloria Armstrong, Aquilla Stewart, Eva Newton, David Stevenson and Margaret Miles) were excellent. I called ahead and even by phone they were professional and pleasant.  Thank you.

SST - E-Specialists:  John Carter was very helpful. I like having him at all locations my library.   Enthusiastic teacher (Donna Peretzman) & class is free & accessible.

Murray Hill Branch: Mr. (Douglas) Fair was very helpful. He helped with reference, etc.

South Mandarin Branch:  I have been attending Spanish Computer classes for over a year. Luis Terron, Angela Richmond and Chris Quijano (volunteer) are great instructors. They are always ready to help us. I like my teachers very much and will never forget these very useful lessons. Gracias!

Tricia Larrabee wins SST's Owly Award

Gretchen Mitchell, Assistant Director for Support Services, announces, "Tricia Larrabee is  the most recent winner of SST’s Owly award.    Tricia received this honor because 'she’s always offering to go that extra mile to help when it’s needed.   She stepped in …. and offered to take on the supply order.'"

UPK Aims For High Morale

Rosalin Smalls shares the latest morale booster at UPK, naming an Employee of the Month.

"The Employee of the Month is our newest acknowledgment of each other’s worth.  The employee can choose a special perk, such as a luncheon with their favorite food, a week without Drops, and a choice of some other perks with the branch manager’s approval.

"UPK's David Humphries is their first recipient of Employee of the Month.  After first serving as a volunteer, David has now been on UPK's clerical staff six years and is working on a bachelor's degree at FSCJ in bio medical science. He plans to pursue employment in a medical research or forensics laboratory.

"We hope to have a poster board with a picture and bio to display so customers can appreciate our special staff. We also keep morale up with 'just because' luncheons when everyone brings something and we just enjoy each other’s company."
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NOTE: A picture of Mr. Humpries will be posted when the blogger server reconnects.

Donna Thomas Retires After 15 1/2 Years

Donna Thomas, is retiring as Youth Services Librarian II in the Main Teen Department and sends us a farewell note:

So long and thanks for all the books.  Libraries have been important to me ever since I can remember.  When I was in 5^th grade we moved next door to the Carnegie Library in Superior, Wisconsin.  It was cool in the summer, warm in the winter and when it was closed we used the two story building as a play structure.  I waited every year for the new Guinness Book of World Records and the World Almanac to come in. 

When I was in college, I would have sought library work, but thought “Oh, I couldn’t compete; everyone wants to work in the library.” I ended up going for a teaching degree. 

After 20 years of teaching, it was time to move on and I stumbled on the newly minted distance MLIS at FSU.  I wasn’t aiming to be a librarian; I just really wanted to take all of the classes – Organization of Information!  History of Reading in Everyday Life!  Assessing Information Needs!  Once I had the Master’s Degree, it was time to look for a job.  JPL was interviewing at the school and I decided it would be a good idea to go practice my interviewing skills.  I sat down with Jean Brinkman and had the best interview ever, because I was just doing it for practice.
 
I began my career with JPL at Regency and Carolyn Williams was the first person I met.  My first task was arranging chairs in the conference room.  A little over two years later, I moved on to a Senior Librarian position at Mandarin, then Murray Hill (three blocks from my house) and them to a Supervisor’s position at Highlands.  During the great shuffle of 2012, I was assigned to Main Teen, and my last two years have been a huge amount of fun.

After fifteen and a half years, it’s time to move on. I have mixed feelings about leaving.  The job is still fun, and I am really enjoying the people I work with, but better to leave on a high note.  My husband and I are planning a move to New Mexico, where there are mountains and cacti and new adventures.

EB, GB, WBK, & NS Score BIG Wins

Patricia A. Morrison, Supervisor for the ULC proudly reports, "The four Urban Library Centers received HIGH MARKS on the recent audits conducted by Nailya Harnisch of JPL Finance department and Donna Crowther.  Brentwood branch and Dallas Graham branch received a whopping 100% for their well-maintained records and safe content.  Westbrook branch and Brown Eastside branch received a magnificent 99% but lost a point for one teeny weeny omission.  Congratulations to the staff at the four Urban Library Centers.  You ROCK!"

And from all of us to all of you at Eastside, Graham, Westbrook and Brentwood branchs: Everyone at JPL applauds you.

Who's Behind Those Harry Potters?

 JB's Terry Walsh says, "We sent an invitation to Muggles and Wizards and they came!  On Saturday January 3^rd, more than 130 people attended JB’s inaugural Yule Ball For All.  Many were in costume!  The Harry Potter themed event included a
Sorting Hat where Wizards were assigned their school, a wand making table manned by Cheryl Callavini from PCR, and numerous photo ops created by the talented Julie Rekow, JB Teen Librarian. The festivities ended with an appearance by magician Barry Hinnant.  Once again, a good time was had by all. (Pictured is the staff in their Harry Potter themed attire and Terry Welsch's grandson, Landon.  Additional pictures can be viewed on the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library Facebook page." Here's the link:
https://www.facebook.com/fobbl

WST's New Year's Eve Party

Melodie Brunson, Part-time Associate, Youth Services at WST reports, "Celebrating New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world was the theme of our New Year’s Eve Party on December 31^st at West Regional Library.  Rebekah Mitchell, our Youth Services Librarian III, found a countdown clock for Moscow that counted down the time for us as the fun ensued! 
 
 "In Switzerland, New Year’s Eve is celebrated by dropping ice cream on the floor (????)  Instead, we made ice cream snowmen-YUM!  In Denmark, people jump off the backs of chairs to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Not in our library.  We played musical chairs instead and the child left standing got a treat.  In Belgium, citizens are so fond of their livestock, they wish them Happy New Year’s.  Our own Jonathan Sandbach dressed as a cow and if the children wished him Happy New Year’s, he gave them a treat!  He said he felt like Santa Claus and the children didn’t seem to be scared of him at all--which, when you see his outfit, is truly amazing.  Among ourselves, we joked that this is why you avoid GMO’s!  We ended by counting down the seconds on the Moscow Countdown Clock, then tossed confetti and drank sparkling grape juice as we rang in the New Year, albeit on Moscow time!"

 

 

Special Guest Rabbi Lief Reads to KR Kids

Rabbi Joshua B. Lief of the Congregation Ahavath Chesed Temple was the special guest reader at the Stories for Young Children program at the Mandarin Branch Library at 10:15 and 11:00 am, January 8.  Rabbi Lief entertained the audience of more than 50 young children and their parents with stories and songs that promote early literacy.    

 

KR Manager Baldwin & Ms. Pulley Make Presentation to Library Board

The Mandarin Branch Library hosted the monthly meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Thursday, January 8.  It was really special to have SE Region Clerical Supervisor Deborah Wainwright and SE Region Librarian III for Youth Services Anita Haller attend the meeting to show their support during the presentation to the Board by Library Associate Alison Pulley and Branch Manager Lynne Baldwin. 
 
Pictured are Anita Haller, Deborah Wainwright, Stacey Van Hoy and Sara Peretzman.

Staff Profile - January 2015

Amber Crystal Holley has some positive methods that she applies to everyday life and her career.  So far, these SOP's (standard operating procedures) in her career and elsewhere seem to be working well for her and she has some principles we could all adopt.

Q: What responsibilities do you have as the new Youth Services Manager?

A: As the Manager for Youth Services I have the privilege to act as the head of the Youth Services Leadership Team, which includes the eight YS Librarian IIIs, as well as our Early Childhood Specialist, Susan Mankowski. We all work to ensure that all 21 of our locations are offering library services that support the educational success of our youth. I also coordinate system wide initiatives that support this goal, including offering professional development and coordinating programming around the system.

I’m also looking forward to refocusing our youth services programming to encourage the educational success of our youth. Youth programs that focus on educational success were noted as one of JPL’s strategic goals because our youth are falling behind in all academic areas. We, as a public institution, are uniquely placed to not only support academic initiatives, but to help provide a model for life-long learning and an enjoyment of the pursuit of knowledge. We are not just the “keepers of books” and I’m excited by all the opportunities available to youth services staff to explore what the library can mean for the youth of today and adults of tomorrow.

Q: Starting with JPL in 2004, you managed AYL, then served as CW Region’s Senior Youth Services Librarian and later moved into the position of Librarian III in the Youth Services Department with Laura Minnich. Your experience in these areas will no doubt promulgate some innovative ideas for JPL’s Youth Services. Would you share some of the plans you have for YS?

A: I’ve moved around JPL even more than that! Sometimes I like to joke that if I’ve gotten too settled wherever I am, it must be time to move! But it has been an awesome experience. I think I’ve really gotten a feel for the different neighborhoods that JPL serves and all of our many and varied customers. It has really taught me a higher level of flexibility and given me an understanding that each library, although part of a larger organization, has individual needs to serve its local population.

Since I’ve been in a lot of different areas of the JPL system I’ve seen a lot of duplication of efforts and areas where Youth Services staff could be helping each other. We should be sharing ideas, information, and supplies more than we do currently, so I will be looking for ways to improve this sharing whenever possible.

Q: Did you have a career prior to coming to JPL, and if so, how does that experience contribute to your current position as Youth Services Manager?

 A: My career prior to JPL was Professional College Student. I jumped directly from my undergrad experience at New College of Florida to graduate school at USF to my first job as a librarian at the Beaches Branch of JPL.  But I can tell you that my part-time jobs during those years were formative. For a while, I cold called people across the United States to ask them about their media habits. I quickly learned how to make a personal connection rapidly over the phone with people from all walks of life. I also learned to let go of the bad conversations and enjoy the good ones when they came along. My times at the Post Office taught me to be an efficient cog in the wheel and gave me a love of audiobooks. My time as a librarian for the youth prison system gave me an exposure to a certain group of children and my first good library customer stories.
 

Q: You have excellent organizational skills—does that come natural to you, or is it a skill you developed in your career, and why do you consider it to be essential to success?

 
A: I have always been fairly organized because I like to get things done. If I can be organized about whatever it is that I am doing, it gets done quickly, neatly and with a minimum of fuss. And if I’m organized, I can get more done.

My favorite part about being organized is that it allows me to avoid thinking about what I have to do next because I have that all written down. Instead, I can spend more time thinking about better ways to do things and new things to try.

Also, since I’m organized, I’ve learned that I can do some pretty big and pretty amazing things. All I need to do is outline my plan and figure out the small, achievable steps. Then I set a bunch of mini-deadlines and before I know it, I’m done.

 
I can’t say that the ability to be organized is something that I was born with. It’s something that I work at and I’m constantly improving upon and trying new tricks.
 

Q: What would you say was the happiest day in your life?

A: I’ve had some happy days, but honestly I try to live my life happy. Life is a journey and if you can’t enjoy the ride, what’s the point? A few years ago I watched this really amazing TED talk by Shawn Achor. He talks about why happy people are happy and gives some simple ways that everyone can make their daily lives happier. So I do things and arrange what I can of my life to make myself happier. Did you know that happier people are about 30% more efficient and productive?

 http://www.ted.com/talks/shawn_achor_the_happy_secret_to_better_work/transcript?language=en

Happy New Year From KR's Children's Staff

Happy New Year 2015 from the Children’s Department at the Mandarin Branch Library!   The display board was designed by Mandarin’s very own design team of Frances & Alison.  Pictured are David Foster, Anita Haller, Alison Pulley and Frances Wickes. 

Oh, To Be A Child Again

Beverly Mason, Library Associate at Highlands Branch said, "We only had five in storytime this morning, but it was awesome.  I used the 'Winter Traveling Tales' and we read Oh, by Kevin Henkes and 10 on a Sled, by Kim Norman.

 After we finished reading our stories and singing our songs, we had a snowball fight and did the 'Writing in the Snow' art activity.  Two children were writing letters and numbers.  One was exploring the feeling and taste of frosting." (Now we know why you like these programs.)

How To Make Florida Snowflakes

As we began the holiday break the kids enjoyed creating their own snowflake (since Florida hasn’t seen snow since 1989) holiday cards and placemats. Mrs. Antoinette Walker helped them color and create a placemat to complement their holiday dinner while Mrs. McTeer created snow, I mean snowflakes. (Thanks, Kim McTeer at Westbrook, for the blurb).

To Jump Start Your HAPPY NEW YEAR!

From an 8-year old recently

 Dear library,

Thank you….For all the books you have to share with us, and the computers so we can find the books we want.  And most of all the kindness you have for us!

Sheraton

One of your library Friends

Happy Kids At WBK

There were 23 kids jumping for joy to have the Balloon program at Westbrook Branch Library again this year. They twisted a New Year’s Eve hat to bring in the New Year. Not sure who did the most popping, the kids or the adults. Mrs. Brunson is always fun to have around and sure knows how to draw a crowd.  (Thanks to  Kimberly McTeer at WBK for the blurb and picture.) 

EB's Winter Activities Are Popular

Sharon Whitt reports, "Brown Eastside’s Winter Activities are a hit with the kids.  Karen Lewis, EB’s Library Assistant (below), hosted the Candy Cane Craft program with 45 in attendance. The kids had fun listening to carols, making their own candy cane sleighs and, of course, eating candy. Our own Library Clerk, Michelle Dubois, attended the program with her daughter (above).

"There were also 25 in attendance at the Let It Snow Puppet Show hosted by Eve Harm (below, standing, left). The kids had fun watching the show and making their own snowflakes. Each held their snowflake up to make it seem like it was snowing."
 

Love Those Smiles!

Season Greetings and Happy New Year from the staff at the Mandarin Branch Library.

Kudos From Customers

Main – Children’s Dept.: Today I called in with a problem. I needed to know how to download the e-book onto my computer and do a search for a book in particular. I have never done this before and had quite a few questions and steps to go through. I got Marie (Myers) on the line from the Main Library and she took the time and was very courteous and patiently and professionally helped me to solve my problems. Job well done to you, Marie, and those who hired you. You shine in what you do!

Main – Conference Center:  We can't thank Will Daniels enough for all of his wisdom, talents, experience and classy Ideas during the planning of our wedding! Will patiently answered all of our crazy questions with nothing but expert responses and then backed them up by making sure nothing went wrong during the entire evening! He also made my 8 year old niece and 80 year old aunt feel as if they were the only ones in the room and equally comfortable. HE THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING! Thanks for making my wedding day as beautiful as the library itself. I still can't believe how amazing it looked for both the ceremony and reception. Thanks to Will Daniels, my family 'as a whole' has been treated to a great event in the Downtown Area no less!

Murray Hill Branch:  …She's great. I've never heard her be rude or down talk anyone. Talks in the same tone all the time. Margaret (Esposito) is her name. …

Pablo Creek Branch: Beverly Brown is "Employee of Month“ for exceeding her duties!

South Mandarin: Ms. (Margo) Crafton's sweet spirit and her genuine love for children. I feel we have a fun, safe place to come and learn and play. The crafts are neat and easy for small children to do. My son leaves with a sense of accomplishment.

Plus one special one for Christmas, addressed at Mandarin Branch with a picture of Santa, but I think this would apply to all:  "Dear library: Thank you….For all the books you have to share with us, and the computers so we can find the books we want. And most of all the kindness you have for us!"

Even If You Haven't Got A Dime To Give

Most everyone would probably agree that Gratitudue and (good) Attitude are about the best gifts we can give each other--and ourselves.

KR Hosts Exceptional Student Art

Mandarin Branch Library was the site of an Art Show celebrating  the Alden Road Exceptional Student Center Art Program and artists during the month of November.  Library Clerk Sara Peretzman coordinated the event as well as the reception that the branch hosted for faculty, students and parents on Wednesday, November 19.  Fifty-seven people attended the reception including School Board Member Ashley Smith Juarez.  Sara is pictured holding a large thank you card created and signed by the Alden Road artists.  Sara is also pictured with School Member Smith Juarez and Library Clerk Jessica Jones.

Drum Roll, Please, for Susan & Antoinette

Pat Morrison, ULC Supervisor, proudly reports, "Susan Williamson received an anniversary pin for 10 years of service with the City of Jacksonville.  Susan began her career with JPL in October 2004.  Pictured with Susan is Antoinette Walker, Library Assistant at Westbrook Branch.  Both ladies received an Innovator Award for two projects they initiated at the branch. Using Traveling Tales, Susan provides pop-up story times for young customers at the branch.  Antoinette sponsored a Customer Appreciation Day where, on a frosty morning, more than 20 customers received a cup, a candy cane and a packet of hot chocolate.  Kudos to both ladies for their service and their thoughtful ideas that add value and support the goals of Outstanding Customer Service and Educational Success ."

All Things Bright And Beautiful

Beautiful Happy Hanukkah Greeting at Mandarin Branch - Mandarin Library Clerk Sara Peretzman created a Hanukkah Wall to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

  

And Lynne Baldwin loaned her Nutcracker collection to add to the joy at Mandarin:

Very Merry At Southeast Branch

Wow!

Would you believe Southeast likes the Season?

They must; they sport TWO beautiful renditions of THE tree.

How The World Celebrates

Part of the “Winter Happenings” at NS was “Celebrations Around The World" and billed as a fun, educational, and tasty program to teach youth how other cultures and countries celebrate. The children learned some history, geography, fun facts, played games and sampled food.  Requests were made to the JPL family asking for volunteers to represent various countries and cultures.  Everyone eagerly agreed.

Lilia Simonton (M) and Emma Pancho (M), dressed in traditional clothing, represented the Philippines.   They presented a slide show and later taught the children to play Sipa, kicking bundled rubber bands, and Tinikling, a dance with Bamboo poles.  Eva Newton, Urban Core Teen Librarian, represented Iceland.  She presented the folklore of the mischievous Yule Lads.   Jackie Spiritas (GB) represented Israel and the Jewish traditions. She lit a Menorah and later taught the children to play the dreidel game. Angela Richman (SOM) represented the Hispanic cultures of Colombia, Mexico and Spain. She brought a full display board as well as treats for tasting and other items and icons. Everyone smiled when she told of the custom of fresh yellow underwear to bring in the New Year and her daughter, Amy, ran around rolling an empty suitcase to represent greeting a new year full of travel.  Presenter Nancy Quinones of the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce represented Puerto Rico.  Besides leading the children in an impromptu percussion band, she brought coconut treats as well.

 

The Friends of Brentwood Library prepared and served two tables full of fruit and tasty treats with an international flair.  There were approximately 70 participants and everyone learned something and enjoyed it.  Betty Williams, Library Associate, Sr. at Brentwood Branch, who contributed this articles, says, "Thank you Family!"

CAL Shares Christmas Story

  Merry Christmas from the Center for Adult Learning and Learn to Read!  The staff of CAL and LTR decorated the Christmas tree in CAL with a theme of The Learning Tree.  The decorations (all handmade) were designed to include all areas of studies, i.e.: Math, ESL, and ABE.   Books were wrapped as gifts and placed under the tree.  A family of four stopped by and asked if they could get closer to the tree.  As they walked closer to the tree one of the kids asked his parents why there was writing on the decorations. The father said to the child, “I’m sure it’s related to the books under the tree because books are given as Christmas gifts.”  Denise was manning the desk and took the opportunity to provide the family with information concerning CAL and Learn to Read and what the decorations represented.   The parents thanked Denise, and the response from the kids was “COOL”. So, as you plan for your days off at Christmas don’t forget to READ!

Cookie Mouse Shares His Cookies

Graham hosted a Cookie Mouse Storytime on December 17. There were 15 children and adults in attendance and they were amazed that they could meet the famous mouse “in person”. Each got some chocolate chip cookies as a treat to add to the Cookie Mouse experience.

Some wanted their picture taken with the famous mouse – others chose to be polite observers. GB Manger Jackie Spiritas would like to thank the mystery staff person that agreed to take on the role as Cookie Mouse. You know who you are….!

Navy Band Performs At KR

Lynne Baldwin, KR Manager, reports "The Navy Band Southeast’s Brass Quintet, Windward Brass, performed holiday music on Saturday, December 13 at 2:00 pm in the Community Room at the Mandarin Branch Library.  Council Member Matt Schellenberg(left) introduced the members of the Quintet before an audience of over 91 community members and library supporters.  Veterans and active duty personnel in the audience were recognized by CM Schellenberg. 

 

"Big thanks to Sara Peretzman, Eric Cusaac, Stacey Van Hoy, Don Carpenter, David Foster Robert Moseley and Jessica Jones,who coordinated the event, and Frances Wickes and Diane Lewis who organized the refreshments including the Navy cake. Great job!"

 

We appreciate the Navy Band; they perform often at the Main Library in the Music at Main series.  If you have not attended the performances, try it--you'll like it.

Happy Holidays from Support Services!