First Santa Visit At WBK

Chiquita Powell said, "Santa's visit, December 1, was a first for WBK, and I am pleased to say we had a total of 18 participants.  Some were customers I had never seen before.  One parent told me she was given a flyer from her daughter’s daycare center.  This made me happy that the daycare centers I visited did indeed pass out the flyers I gave them.  After Santa read two stories and the kids discussed the various ways Santa is able to get into your home, if you do not have a chimney, the kids enjoyed making a snowman face craft.  The kids and parents had a great time and after the craft was completed, everyone stayed in the room and continued talking to Santa and each other.

Amber Pierce: Job Well Done!

San Marco Branch Manager Lilia Simonton says, "Library Clerk Amber Pierce never had any cash handling errors while assisting customers at the circulation desk for FY 2015-2016. She is very focused and diligent when handling money matters."  So Amber deserves and received a Job Well Done Award.

Chris Tabur: Job Well Done

Chris Tabur, Library Associate, received a Job Well Done award, November 22, 2016.  After Main's children's and the teen departments merged, there were additional desk coverage scheduling needs. Beth Friederich, who nominated Chris, said, "With the many programs, field trips and outreaches that our department conducts, the schedules are very busy and complicated. To avoid missed desk coverage, Chris programmed our Excel schedule template to verify desk staffing each hour.  This significantly reduced time needed for double checking our daily schedule."

Luis Terron Wins Spirit Award

Luis Terron won the Spirit of the ADA 2016 Jack Gilrup Award at the Spirit of the ADA event on October 30, 2016, at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The event was sponsored by the COJ Disabled Services Division and the Independent Living Resource Center of Northeast Florida. Luis received the award from Mr. Kevin McDaniel who is the new manager of the COJ Disabled Services Division. Chris Eaton received it last year, so JPL has had two winners.

Kudos From Customers

Main Library – Circulation:  I love this branch...always have what i need...the worker that's always there is very nice…Corey (Scott) is his name......I thank him for his kindness.

Main – Popular:  All too often businesses are the recipients of letters of complaints and few letters of compliments. You deserve to hear about 2 of your wonderful employees Mia Clark and Ryan Fix. I had the pleasure of working with them this past Monday and Tuesday as they hung my photographic exhibit titled “The Beauty of Nature in Jacksonville”. They were so careful and precise with the loading, transporting and hanging of my 15 3X4 framed images on the 2nd and 3rd floors. They both deserve gold stars and recognition for their care and hard work

South Mandarin Branch:  I take my daughter every Tuesday to "Bilingual Stories for Young Children" and I would like to say thanks to the teacher Angela (Richman).  She does a really great job; my daughter is very happy to go. And thanks to the library for opening the doors for my daughter to learn and attend to this brilliant program.

San Marco Branch:  We LOVE coming to the San Marco library storytime. My son acts like Ms Emily (Gideon) all week long and loves to come. We have been coming since he was 3 months old and now I have a little daughter who loves it too. Emily keeps the programs fresh and lively. The songs and books are perfect.

Thankful Is Theme For Turn It Up At PCR

              Mandy Elliott (L) and Kim Bennett served as puppeteers.

PCR Manager Jackie Spiritas brags, "Pablo Creek Library hosted a Gratitude-themed Turn it Up Thursday, November 17 with several simultaneous programs and community partners including Goodwill and Sweet by Holly. The event continues to draw interest; PCR was pleased to see 150 customers of all ages enjoying a variety of events.

"The afternoon began with puppet shows where the children learned about the Little Red Hen, as well as the Country Mouse and Town Mouse. The puppets reminded the children to be thankful for family, home, friends and food. Library Associate Mandy Elliott and Children’s Associate Kimberly Bennett entertained the children with their creative props and interpretation of the stories.

"Next up was an inspirational and interactive program from Tracy 'Dot Com' Collins with Goodwill Industries. She 'emceed' the event parading five adorable models down the length of the Fiction aisles and prompting customers to guess the total cost for the outfits. Tracy reported on the Goodwill Facebook page that all six outfits (including hers) cost a total of $81.32. The winner received a $25 gift card to Goodwill which goes a long way – and helps many individuals in need gain the help they need. Tracy is an ardent supporter of the library and wrote about Turn it Up in her weekly Times Union column about what there is to do in Jacksonville.

"Big stars of the evening included The Teen Advisory Board, which held an Open Mic Night in the middle of the library with 15 Teens from Douglas Anderson and other local drama groups participating. I reported that the Teens were poised and confident, reading excerpts from original works and dramatic monologues from known classics. It was one of the best examples of how Turn It Up benefits the community. The Teens were able to practice their skills, the customers were entertained, and the Teen Advisory Board showed leadership skills organizing and running the event.  I also reported that Teen Library Associate Mandy Elliott has worked very hard to launch the club and it is becoming a strong addition to Pablo Creek's programming offerings."

"There were crafts, Library Bowling, Giant Jenga, and free cupcakes from Sweet by Holly. Library Clerk Hunter Alley demonstrated the Transparent Language online database by showing customers they could say “Thank You” in hundreds of different languages. Customers decorated the large Turkey with Post-it-Notes expressing what they are grateful for. Library Associates Nikki Denton and Kimberly Bennett created the large bird which provided a colorful backdrop all week and helped build momentum and interest for the event.

"The staff at Pablo Creek is so critical to the success of the event. Jackie Spiritas reports that on that day staff hosted DCPS Field Trips, 3 Puppet Shows, and a Teen Open Mike Night all while keeping three departments running with regular library service. It is incredible the amount of energy and creativity they bring to their jobs every day."

Looking Great At 60!

Main Library Manager Lynne Baldwin reports, "The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library celebrated their 60^th Anniversary, November 9, 2016, at the Main Library and at City Hall.  The evening started with a resolution from the City Council presented by CM and library supporter John Crescimbeni, 5th from left above at City Hall with the Friends and Director Gubbin (far right), followed by an Author Talk and book signing with local writer Mark Woods. Mr. Woods discussed his new book LASSOING THE SUN: A Year in America's National Parks.  A reception hosted by the Jacksonville Public Library rounded out the evening."  

JPL Leadership Award Winners Honored

The Library new Board Chair (right) and Director Gubbin congratulated winners of the JPL Leadership Awards at the Board's November 9, 2016 meeting. PCR  Manager Jackie Spiritas, center below, won the Challenge the Process Award and subsequently the Employee of the Quarter Award.  Jackie won her awards for her successful Turn It UP Thursday programs that bring together not only customers but also different organizations, businesses and other City departments. PCR started with about 40 in attendance and now about 200 attend this popular third Thursday monthly program.

Other winners who received JPL Leadership Awards were:

Challenge the Process: Charlene Ovshak, Katie Bark, and as mentioned, Jackie Spiritas.
Inspire a Shared Vision:  Lynne Baldwin, Greg Royce, James "Jay" Brasfield, and Ryan Fix.
Enable Others to Act: Justin Keiser.
Model the Way: Linda Eckerson.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU FROM ALL OF US!

Friends Novembr Book Sale

Our Friends of JPL will hold their next sale, November 18, 19, and 20, 2016.  (And don't forget they are open every Tuesday and Thursday, 9-noon;  and on Saturday, 9-3.)

Membership is only $10/year and entitles you to 25% on every purchase.

Come out yourselves and promote the Friends Book Sale to your customers.  Their sales benefit the Jacksonville Public Library.

BOOK SALE:

Friday, November 18: 4-8 pm - FJPL members only - you can join at the door! - Buy 1 bag & get 2nd FREE

Saturday, November 19: 9-4:  $15/bag - Buy 2 bags; get 3rd FREE

Sunday, November 20: Noon - 5 pm - $15/bag - Buy 2 bags - get 3rd Free

The Friends of JPL are located in the warehouse adjacent to the University Park Branch Library, 3435 University Boulevard; phone 630-2304.

Egg Drop At PCR Is A Win For 20 "Scientists"

Pablo Creek holds a fun and educational STEAM program every other week starring Library Associate Kimberly Bennett. This week Kim created the Egg Drop experiment with 20 participants in attendance. The “scientists” in attendance explored the force of falling objects, including eggs. For this experiment, they had to think about how to create a parachute, where to put an egg, and how to cushion it to stay whole for the Egg Drop experiment. Only 3 eggs out of 10 survived the drops from a ladder. But everyone got a prize! This program is great fun and an adventure in science every week. 

What will they do next time? 

DU Region Manager Marshelle Berry Gets 30 Year Pin From Mayor

November 1, 2016 was a big day for Highlands Region Manager Marshelle Berry.  She received her 30 year pin and congratulatory letter from Mayor Lenny Curry personally, and of course, Assistant Director for Public Services Julie McNeil was there to honor her. Please click on the link below for a good view of the occasion:  https://flic.kr/p/NEDt8t

Marshelle had this to say about her years with JPL, "I started at JPL in 1986 as a Clerk, and then promoted to Library Assistant.  While still employed, I went back to school and obtained my BA Degree and then an MLIS degree.  I promoted to Youth Services Librarian at the Highlands Branch and then to Senior Librarian where I supervised the Brentwood Branch.  Next, I promoted to Library Supervisor and managed the Regency Square Branch. Later, I supervised the four urban core branches.  I was appointed to my current position as Region Manger in 2013.

Staff Profile - November 2016

Mandarin Branch Manager Mark Hohnadel is one who goes much more than the "extra mile" for customers, as you have read recently on this blog, should you not know him personally. Trying to get him to elaborate on his accomplishments at JPL was a task--he just isn't a self-promoter. 

Q:  You have been with JPL a long time; could you give us an overview of your professional progress?

A:  I started with JPL in 1999 at Northwest Library which is now known as the Bradham Brooks Library.  Since then I have had the great pleasure of working in many different locations where I have met some wonderful people.  My time at NW was short lived as I moved to the newly renovated Regency Library in the fall of 1999 where I first met Carolyn Williams (former deputy director) who was then AR's manager.  While at Regency I had the opportunity to take a test and was promoted to the position of what was called Librarian Senior at the time and I moved to the Beaches Library in 2001.  This was a great experience and I was even the acting manager for a while when Susan Shami, the manager, was out on maternity leave.  My next stop took me to Southeast Library where I stayed for several years.  This was fun because I was there before the branch was renovated and I was one of a few who remained there working while the branch was closed for expansion and renovations.  Shortly after this, I was transferred to Murray Hill as manager.  Next came Main where I worked in the Periodicals department under Julie McNeil, I also had the chance to work in the Popular Department as well.   I was then asked by Carolyn Williams (who was promoted to deputy director) to return to Southeast as manager, which was something I really enjoyed.  In 2015 I was relocated to Mandarin where I am currently the manager. 

Q:  As KR manager, what has been your greatest challenge?

A:  One of the biggest challenges for me now is keeping up with all the demands of being a manager.  You have to accept change and keep going; so I just take it one day at a time and give it 100%.

Q: What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?

A:  My great accomplishment is being able to work with so many great people while also helping people at the same time. I am very proud of the work I have done in my years working here.

Q:  What changes have been made at KR that have produced a positive effect for customers and/or staff?

A:  I have been able to make Mandarin Library a very nice, attractive, pleasant place for all to enjoy.

Q:  What is your favorite pastime?

A:  When I am not working I enjoy travelling to different places.  I especially enjoy art museums and historical sites.  One item on my bucket list is to visit every state at least once.  One highlight was visiting Wyoming this year.  I am well on my way but still have quite a few adventures to look forward to.

THANK YOU For Food Baskets For Thanksgiving

The Main Library: 4 baskets from Lynne Baldwin herself; Children's: a huge basket; Adim (4 baskets); Mandie McKenzie in the Conference Center (one basket); SST & UPK (4 baskets); JB (2 baskets); and a huge basket from CW were collected for the Daniel Thanksgiving Food Basket Drive.  Nicolle Burton and Diane Alexander pushed carts full over to the City's central collection site November 3rd and 4th.

Nicolle says, "THANK YOU ALL!" 

Stephanie Harley: Job Well Done!

Stephanie Harley, Main Clerical Supervisor, received a Job Well Done Award from Tammy Crotts, Novembr 3, 2016, and Alisha LeVasseur had the pleasure of photoing the occasion. 

Main Staff Really GETS Halloween

Michael Sullivan (green jacket, front left) had to show off some of Main's employees in their Halloween regalia.

Oh, What Fun Things Are Seen

Mandarin Branch Library celebrated the “Halloween Pumpkin Bash”, October 26, 2016. The children’s department entertained kids and parents from 2-4 p.m.  They enjoyed activities, including stories from the grandson of “Darth Vader” (David Foster), pumpkin painting, mask and pumpkin coloring contest, “pin the boo”, toss the bag to feed the pumpkin and light refreshments.  

KR closed with a costume parade led by the “grandson of Darth Vader”. The activity was a big success with a total attendance of 174.  (Thank you, Isabel Moreno-Santiago, YS Librarian I, for input and pic.)

What's In YOUR Thanksgiving Basket?

Mark Hohnadel and Diane Lewis are happy TO see the generous donations from Mandarin Branch staff, which they loaded in Keli Likins trunk to take to Nicolle Burton at Main for the JAX CARES Thanksgiving drive.  

If you can and want to donate, all donations are due to Nicolle by Friday, November 4, 2016, for needy families.  Nicolle says THANK YOU IN ADVANCE.

Job Well Done: Emily Gideon & SS's 1st DCPS Visit

Children’s Associate Emily Gideon received her JPL Job Well Done Award, October 27, 2016 for the wonderful programs she puts on at San Marco.   Kevin Douglas, YS Librarian II, nominated Emily and his is the smiley face peeking out to the left.

Below is a picture of San Marco Branch's first DCPS visit, September 13, 2016, and the Hendricks Elementary Kindergarten students were intent on the presentation, as you see.

Gone Fishin'

Terry Welch at JB shares some good news, "October 27^th, JB participated in  the 11^th anniversary of Read For The Record.  Over 35 children listened as Nicole Saville read The Bear Ate Your Sandwich; they went “fishing” and created bear claws and a bear hat.  Nicole was assisted by special guest Rover who played along. A good time was had by all!

United Way Likes Staff And Staff Likes UW

There is a new United Way campaign soon to take off (don't worry, funds contributed by payroll deduction will not start until January 1, 2017.  

JPL itself has benefited from United Way this year (just talk to Susan Mankowski).  Now you can learn how much JPL staff think about UW when you view the article from yesterday’s  Financial News and Daily Record.  It is an article about Sarah Henderson, the daughter of Ralph Henderson, Library Associate at SOM, and Patricia Henderson, a shelver at KR.

http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=548605&searchtext=henderson

Thank you, KR Manager Mark Hohnadel, for the heads up.

Kudos From Customers

BEACHES BRANCH:  Gamble (Beardsley) thoroughly helped with setting up email and fixing my camera. Highly recommend this eservice.

HIGHLANDS BRANCH:  Dear Mrs. Morrison, I am writing this letter on behalf of Tyhedra Wilson to tell you how much I appreciated the help when I called the Library concerning a missing book. She was very willing to help and asked me all the right questions in order to help me. She went above and beyond to assist me and everything turned out fine. She was very kind and considerate toward me and my two grandchildren when I arranged to meet her at the Highlands Branch Library to personally tell her thank you and how much I appreciated her help. I think she should be commended on her professionalism concerning her outstanding work. May God bless you always.

SAN MARCO BRANCH: We love coming to your library! Everyone--especially Emily (Gideon)--in the children's section) is super helpful! She is always asking how she can help and she is super knowledgeable! I did want to let you know that there might be a need for additional computers in the children's section, especially in the afternoon when kids get out of school. Thanks again for giving my kids a fun library to go to!

SOUTHEAST BRANCH:  Ms. Lenora (Stuckey) was so welcoming when I asked for a new author: even went and got me the first book in the series, as I have a cane and was tired. What an angel!

SOUTH MANDARIN BRANCH:  Per BG’s email 9/27/16:  At the NEFLIN Annual Meeting, Victoria McGlone, FSCJ, shared with me a very positive experience she had at SOM when she was assisted by Ralph Henderson. I think it related to how to download to her device. Victoria is a librarian—now an administrator—so it's a special compliment. My thanks to Ralph and your staff team.

Here Comes The Bride!

NW YS Library Associate Anthony Baltiero shares his good news, "As you are all a part of my extended work family, I wanted to share my wonderful news! This past Sunday, October 23, 2016, my longtime partner, Tiffany Rose, and I were married. We had a small, private ceremony with family at Stockton Park in Ortega. 

"I want to thank you all for the kind comments, support, and positivitiy in my time here at JPL! You all are the best team that I have been a part of and I look forward to continued success as I progress through this wonderful new journey."

Congratulations to Anthony and Tiffany from all of us! 

Main In Full Swing For Halloween

A full week of Halloween - that’s what the Teen / Children’s Department at Main is aiming for!  Tuesday, staff donned cat ears and tails, which were enjoyed by the DCPS tour children and other customers. Friday and Saturday, October 28 and 29, we’ll have a Library Halloween Scavenger Hunt, handing out candy and toys (starts at noon). Monday, October 31, JPL Main will participate in the downtown Trick or Treat on the Street from 11-2. Keep your eyes peeled for more holiday antics because we just can’t help ourselves!!! J Pictured clockwise from the top left are: Melloney, Kelli, Chris, Beth, Angelica, Marcie and Katie. (Thanks to Marcie O'Dell for the news and pic.)

Winners Announced For Teen Short Story Contest

Raelyn Wiirre, Main Teen YS Librarian II, sent these photos from the 2016 Teen Short Story Contest Reception on October 22, 2016, held in the Main Teen department. The 33  attendees enjoyed refreshments after the ceremony.

"Above are pictured(L-R) Raelyn Wiirre, Region Manager Michael Sullivan, 1^st place winner Cade Corcoran (6-8 Grade Category); 2^nd place winner Camila Sanchez (9-12 Grade Category);  2^nd place winner Georgette Amancha (6-8 Grade Category); and Youth Services Supervisor Stephanie Miller. Not pictured: 1^st place winner Sarah Swain (9-12 Grade Category).

"We received entries from 107 teens. Six JPL staff members read the stories before selecting a first and second place winner for each age division. First place winners were awarded $100 and 2^nd place winners were awarded $50.

 

 The stories are all available on the public site at http://www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/teens/teen-contest-winners. 

Chris Tabur: Job Well Done!

Beth Friederich Main YS Librarian II, nominated Chris Tabur, a Library Associate in the Children's department, for a Job Well Done award and it was presented to him, October 19, 2016.  Beth said, "In preparation for the Joy Korman mural unveiling, various collections in the children's department needed to be relocated. Chris's initiative to start moving the collection to its previous locations made the project quick and efficient as we had a limited time to complete this project after the construction was finished. In addition, Chris brainstormed new locations and created a plan/map by counting shelves needed and checking that the collection would fit. Chris' plan highlights the collection by featuring display shelves within the various collections. After moving the items, Chris also relabeled all of the shelves and cleaned the shelves and their lighted signs so they were in tiptop shape for the mural unveiling." 

Tammy Crotts: Job Well Done!

Nicole Evans nominated Tammy Crotts from the loading dock for a Job Well Done award. Nicole said, "Tammy goes above and beyond her job description. Anytime a Traveling Tales Storytime kit is returned, she inventories all the bags to make sure nothing is missing. If anything is missing, she will either send me an email, detailing the items missing or damaged, or she will speak to me directly about the problem. This is supposed to be my job; however, with Tammy’s help, I am able to correct mistakes much faster and get these kits back into circulation." (Sorry; conflicting schedules kept Nicole and Tammy from getting a pic.)

Masks For Halloween

After a short presentation on African and Mexican masks and traditions, twelve children and two adults made masks for Halloween (and Dia de los Muertos!) at the Brown Eastside 

Library’s Art Club, October 21, 2016.  (Thanks to EB's Shawn Norton for the blurb and pics.)

Creativity Made Quick At Main

Marcie O'Dell asks, "Can you keep a secret? Neither can we; ever since Main's Children’s department Facebook page mentioned that the die cut area is open to all, we have had a steady stream of customers making frogs, flowers, dolphins, dragons, angels, alligators, etc.  There are oodles of choices to be had, so stop in and take away a heart to write that special note on; or cut some footballs for that fun party. The process is easy and the machine will cut paper, card stock, or felt with ease. (Pictured are Mikayla and Alexanderia, who stopped by after participating in the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Run.)"

PCR's Turn It UP Goes Halloween

PCR Manager Jackie Spiritas reports, "Pablo Creek Library hosted a Fall Festival themed Turn It UP Thursday, October 20, starting with a unique Children’s program called 'Apple Juice with an Officer' (an adult version of the program 'Coffee with a Cop.') Two police officers entertained and informed the children and parents with an interactive safety presentation. The children learned everything from when to scream 'Stranger!' to how to keep safe when someone knocks on their door. The children were all 'deputized' with a police badge sticker and got to see a police car. Turn It Up Thursday got some added attention with a visit by the City videographer and photographer. CR&M Manager Chris Boivin was here and captured some of Publix Apron’s Chef Tony Charbonnet’ s cooking demo of Spaghetti Squash Bolognaise on live feed for Facebook. Publix brought a full crew and provided a fun pumpkin decorating craft and it was an addition to the program. Customers drifted on the aroma of home cooking from their computer stations to find Publix's home cooking and were rewarded with a sampling of the dish. 

"Library Clerk Danielle Linnen told customers their 'fortunes' in the format of a game that instructed them what activity was 'in their future' – would it be Library bowling or the opportunity to toss bean bags into our sugar skull? As you can see famed Goosebumps

character doll 'Slappy' loves JPL. He guarded Jackie Spiritas’s Nook which played a spine-

tingling Goosebumps tale while informing customers of JPL’s downloadable resources. The ambiance was punctuated by a four string quartet of woodwind musicians from the Northeast Florida Music Conservatory playing music to browse books by in the middle of the library floor in front of the Ask Here desk.

"The program continues to be successful; this event saw approximately 160 customers participating in crafts, discovering and sampling nutritious cooking ideas, and more. Where else can you go library bowling in the Teen department but at the Pablo Creek Library?"

Look What KR Staffs Have Done

KR Branch Manager Mark Hohnadel has reason to brag on his staffs, particularly Tammy Hilbert, Diane Lewis, and Alison Pulley.  They have made a display of their crafts-- a delight for all to see--and their talents will certainly entice customers to check out our collection of craft titles. 

Keli Likins Hosts CM Willson & Board Trustee Anderson At SE

Library Board Trustee Tim Anderson (L), SE Region Manager Keli Likins, and Council Member Scott Wilson met at the Southeast Branch Library, October 14, 2016.  Keli said, "CM Wilson was not assigned to any library because no libraries fall into the boundaries of his district, which is between PCR, AR and SE.  When I saw the elected officials document on the Neighborhood web site showed 'none', I decided to invite him since probably no one had before.  We took a tour of the library." (Click on the pic to get a larger view.)

Hooray for Keli Likins!

Margaret Fishback & Bryan Thomas - Job Well Done

CR&M Manager Chris Boivin agreed with Sheenah Thrasher-Zamora (far R), P/T Administrative Assistant, that two of CR&M's staffs deserved a Job Well Done award and the awards were made October 17, 2016.  Sheenah said, "Margaret Fishback (2nd from R) is a team spirited person, regularly exemplifying selflessness  Not only is her work quality exquisite as a graphic designer, her attitude deserves praise.  For example, there was a talent show I participated in and I was asked to provide a photo of the other winners and myself for the newsletter.  I asked Margaret to take a quick picture of us using my phone.  She insisted on taking the photo with her high quality camera for best results and asked me where in the library I would like to take it and we found the perfect spot.  She took several shots to ensure I had a nice batch to choose from.  Daily, she walks in ready to share, not only the things she has but her experiences and care about others. And that, to me, is a great example of a force that brings life to the office and the library.

"Bryan Thomas, Graphic Artist, (2nd from left), is a vital vein to our CR&M bloodstream. Not only is he responsible for creating efficient graphic designs that effectively promote the majority of events throughout JPL, he takes great pride in creating every flyer, poster, and bookmark with excellence. Even when faced with challenges from customers, who may have less than realistic expectations concerning their graphic design requests, he still manages to do the best with what he has, which ultimately produces great results." 

We all share your praise, Sheenah.

Gettin' Ready To Spook

It’s almost Halloween, but that’s no reason to be afraid! Take a stroll through the  Children’s Department and you’ll be greeted by ghost garland blowing in the tall grass entryway, dozens of orange pumpkins lining the walls, and happy goblins ready to hug you, if you happen to rest upon a mushroom stool. Customers have stopped to take pictures and kids enjoy counting all the pumpkins. Happy Spooks Day, everyone! (Thanks to Marcie O'Dell for the blurb and pics.)

PCR Sports A Splended Turkey

PCR has a unique Fall Display with a very special turkey created from a book by Children's Library Associate Kim Bennett. She is super crafty and the turkey got the attention of Deputy DirectorJennifer Giltrop and Julie McNeil during their recent Appearance Standards walk through at PCR. Kim credits Pinterest with the idea but Jackie Spiritas said,  "Kim is very creative and takes off with ideas that add value to the decor and displays at PCR. This is just one example. It's fantastic and regal looking."

Library Board Honors The Friends Groups

The Jacksonville Public Library Board of Trustees Chair Ronnie King read the Resolution in Support of Friends of Libraries Week at their monthly meeting, October 13, 2016, at the Main Library.  Below (L/R) are Melvin Turnage, President, Friends of Brentwood Library; Judy Klein, Friends of Murray Hill; Mr. King; Director Barbara Gubbin; Roxanne Henkle, President, Friends of Willowbranch Library, Margaret Smith, FOJPL Treasurer; and Ramonda Fields, President of Dallas Graham Friends.

National Library Week is October 16-21, 2016.

Joy G. Korman Mural Unveiled In Main's Children's Department

 In front center: Main/Urban Region Manager Michael Sullivan (L) and CR&M Manager Chris Boivin.

JPL's official unveiling of the enchanted Joy G. Korman Discovery Zone mural took place September 29, 2016.  The mural, painted by Jim Smith, Thom Butner, and Mary Atwood, is located in the north side of Main's children's department.

Two City Council members were on hand for the big event and JPL Board Chair Ronnie King, former Board Chair Erin Skinner and other Library Board members, Director Barbara Gubbin, Deputy Director Jennifer Giltrop and other JPL staff attended.  Director Gubbin, Chair King, the artists, and others spoke at the unveiling.

One's eyes are magnetized by the fairy tale charm of the three dimensional art.  The different scenes epitomize what can transpire in a child's imagination as he/she reads through a book.

Complete with flying ocean life and swamp creature silhouettes, the mural is sure to awaken the child inside.  

If you have not been to see this delightful addition, come on down!  You are in for a treat.

(Click on the pics to get a larger view.)
_________________________________
Mrs. Joy Korman served on the JPL Board of Trustees from 2000 - 2009 and is a former Board Chair, 2002-2003.

Does Excellent Service Pay?

Last week, Library Clerk Pam Branam was assisting a customer who had a $1.80 fine. After the transaction was completed, the customer said, "Since you were so nice and courteous, I want to make a $30 donation to the library."   (Thanks to Pam who made all of us at JPL look good and to NW Branch Manager Laura Minor for letting us know.) 

Staff Profile - October 2016

Pablo Creek Region Manager Sara Roberts came to JPL from Ventura, CA, where she served as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System. She and her husband, Shane, moved to Jacksonville the latter part of 2015 and she started with JPL, January 4, 2016.  In her brief tenure, she has proven to be an asset working under the leadership of her immediate supervisor, Assistant Director for Public Services, Julie McNeil.

Q:  What drew your interest to a career in library management?

A:  Every summer I took part in the Summer Reading Program at my local library. My parents did not go to college, nor did they care too much about grades or education. They did know that I loved to read. My mom took me to the library and let me choose whatever I wanted. I very clearly remember the SRP at my local branch because I would win a free personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut after I read so many books. Coming from my background, this was like winning the lottery. Not only was I reading, but I was providing for my family. That may sound odd for a small child, but it happens. I loved that little building more than anything else. I found myself and my place in the public library.

When I began my career, I sought out opportunities to effect change. That’s how I ended up in library management. Not because it’s so much fun, or super rewarding. It’s because I know that what I do helps other children experience the magic I felt in the library. Every decision I make should reflect the core values of the library, that’s why I manage.

Q:  You could probably apply some of the management principles and experience from your tenure as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System to your present position with JPL.  Please tell us about that.

A:  The great thing about being second in charge is that you finally see behind the curtain. The terrible thing is that you finally see behind the curtain. It’s very easy to sit in a branch and complain about the people setting priorities. But once you have to make those decisions you start to see how all of the gears fit together, and you are responsible for making it work with little to no resources. I learned many things in that position, but the size and impact of JPL is much greater!

Q:  What other experience and community service have you had that has been indispensable to the professional you are today?

A:  Well, my first master’s degree is in teaching. I spent a few years in the classroom and that was extremely helpful in shaping who I am today. Mostly, my experience as a Librarian moving through each position up the crazy jungle gym/career ladder has been my guide.

Also, I make it a point to not only study library science, but management principles as well. I am always on the lookout for more information and better ways of doing things. It’s a fun challenge, and I appreciate learning from others.

Q:  You have had a successful career for a young professional; what would be your advice to other young professionals on their career path?

A:  It isn’t easy! You have to push yourself to be better, and push your people to be better. We’re lucky because our goal is to change the world, not make someone more money. Sometimes you have to recommit yourself to that goal.

Q: What is the most rewarding experience—professionally or personally—you have had?

A:  What a question! I would have to say the day I graduated from college. It was rough going for a while but I have never felt more proud than the day I got my BA and walked across the stage. Nothing works unless you do, and I put in the work!

PCR Has Councilman's Wife To Read For Story Time & Promotes Voting

The Pablo Creek Branch Library hosted an exciting and timely “Voting Themed” Stories for Young Children at 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, October 4, 2016. Guest reader, Mrs. Debbie Bowman (pictured with a future voter), wife of District 3 City Councilman Aaron L. Bowman, read aloud the picture book “My Teacher for President,” by author Kay Winters. Each child received a handheld American flag from Mrs. Bowman, who was decked out in patriotic colors and brought her own story time props.
                                

Following the reading, the children had an opportunity to vote for their favorite ice cream flavor (chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry). No recount necessary -  strawberry was declared the winner for this group of voters. Each “voter” received an “I Voted” sticker and enjoyed learning about the letter “V” and singing “She’s a Grand Old Flag” led by Youth Services Librarian Kristin Davis.

Our “Voting Themed” Stories for Young Children was a fun, interactive program for our youngest citizens. Their parents really enjoyed the opportunity to meet Mrs. Bowman. Branch Manager Jackie Spiritas said, “We hope the community will see this as another motivation to continue the voting theme as Election Day approaches.”