JPL Foundation & Ansbacher Family Partner For Great JPL Events

 Director Tim Rogers greets crowd, introduces himself, then Mr. Lane at the concluding presentation on Saturday.

JPL Foundation's Executive Director, Dr. Jamie Self, hosted Dinner in the Maps, Friday evening, January 26, 2018, where 48 people dined at a $125/plate dinner to hear PBS’s Antiques Roadshow map and print expert Christopher Lane.  And they had the pleasure of meeting our new Library Director Tim Rogers.

Dinner was served at the reading tables in Main's Ansbacher Map collection on the 4th floor of the Main Library. The paper sculpture artists for Dinner in the Maps centerpieces (and seen here) are JPL staff Shirdellah Groulx and Emma Pancho.  (If interested, please contact the Foundation Office for purchase: info@jplfoundation.org.)
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The next day, about 150 lovers of maps and history attended the Mapping Our Past event at the Main Library. The day began with appraisals of antiques by B. Langston. One of the appraisals made was a first edition of Gone with the Wind  by Margaret Mitchell, appraised at $5,000.  Another appraisal was of a Norman Rockwell painting signed by him, valued at $7500 - $10,000.

Collector and friend of the late Lewis Ansbacher, Michael Fisher, provided a tour of the Ansbacher Map Room. Map activities took place in the Children’s and Teen areas as well as the Jax Makerspace. City Planner Autumn Martinage and planner, developer, and author Ennis Davis provided insight on how maps are used for zoning and transportation in Jacksonville and the state. 

Director Tim Rogers greeted the crowd, introduced himself, then Christopher Lane at the concluding Saturday event. Mr. Lane made a presentation on the myths of the American Southeast in the earliest days of exploration through the 18^th Century. (Did you know many maps include mountain ranges going through Florida?) 

The Saturday event was sponsored by the Ansbacher Family. 

                            Michael Fisher, standing, during the Ansbacher Map tour.

THANK YOU, JAMIE, AND THE ANSBACHER FAMILY, FOR ALL YOU DO AND HAVE DONE FOR THE JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY.   AND WE OWE THANKS TO LISA BUGGS AND LAURA MINOR FOR MUCH OF THE INPUT AND TO JENNA HASSELL WHO SUPPLIED THE PICS.

Ozobots For Outreach

Using Ozobots--small robots programmed to follow lines and dots on a page--proves to be a great draw whether they are used for Teen Tech Week or a Coding Unplugged activity because participants can design an environment for the robot to interact with by simply drawing on a page.

Here GB's Jonathan Sandbach (GB) gives a demo of Ozobots at the John E. Ford Pre-K - 8^th School during their Family Literacy and Makerspace event, January 25, 2018. Main's Joanna Nigrelli provided a table of library information and earlier in the day, Elizabeth McConney from Youth Services presented a more detailed Ozobot program for several classes. (Visit this Ozobots web site for more information:  https://ozobot.com/; thanks to Joanna and Alex Bishop for input.)

Red Any Good Books Lately?

Region Manager Lynne Baldwin says, “AYL Library Clerk Christina Pope created a display to promote reading by highlighting a different color each month along with a catchy slogan.  The color for January is red and the slogan is 'Red Any Good Books Lately?'  Orange is on tap for February. This is exemplary of creative marketing for increasing circulation of reading materials as part of the Strategic Plan Objective 1.1.1B  (tracking circulation of reading materials). Let’s work together and help JPL build a community of readers.  Start Here. Read Anywhere.”

Welcome, Tim Rogers!

Our new JPL Director Tim Rogers' smiling face peeks at us from behind the Pooh Bear picture.  L/R:  Region Manager Keli Likins, SS Manager Lilia Simonton, and Robin West-Rogers, Children's Librarian and all staff (not pictured) heartily welcomed him as he begins his tours of our 21 library locations.

First Storytelling For 50+ Folks At JB

A biggie for Beaches Library was their first JPL50 event, January 20, 2018, dubbed “A Midwinter’s Tale”, storytelling for customers who are 50 years old or older. Retired JPL Librarian Anita Haller captivated the audience with Appalachian folktales. The program was well attended and motivated many to tell their own stories.  Anita is a native of east Tennessee and holds a second master’s degree in storytelling.  She still enjoys working part-time for JPL and we appreciate having such a talented person continue sharing her time with us.  (Thanks to Gail Blumberg for the input and pic.)

Paul Krause: Job Well Done!

EB/NS Manager Kathleen Krizek nominated Facilities' Paul Krause for a Job Well Done Award.  Kathleen said, "Paul provided excellent service to the Brentwood Library during its reopening. He installed shelving, bulletin boards and furniture and removed non-functioning items from the walls, such as a time clock and antique people counter. He made suggestions for better ways to put the branch back in order, such as moving the key box to a smaller wall, which gave us more room for delivery shelves.  He installed a kick stand to the staff door and added an alarmed push bar to the 2^nd floor emergency exit door. He supported our requests to remove unnecessary door hangings, repaired walls, including sanding and repainting.

"At Eastside, there was a sign marked with graffiti I had reported several times to no avail that he was able to fix with paint remover and elbow grease. He is a hard worker who does an excellent job and cares about the finished product."

Paul received the well deserved award from his supervisor, Facilities' Ezra Thomas, January 17, 2018.

Shirley Holcomb: Job Well Done!

Shirley Holcomb received a Job Well Done Award, January 12, 2018, for her help with the Pablo Creek Library’s Deck the Chair lifeguard chair in conjunction with the annual Jacksonville Beach event. She helped create nearly the entire display herself on her own time as she only works part-time. Shirley also sewed six banners of various sizes (like the one in the picture), three shields and a faux stained glass piece for the Game of Thrones themed chair.  PCR's Mandy Elliott, who nominated Shirley, said, "But for her dedication to complete the Deck the Chair project, we would not have had the chair decorated in time.  As the Library’s participation in the community event, the chair was loaned to us to decorate and help promote the annual Deck the Chair at Jax Beach."  Of course the library's participation is important in partnering with other organizations.

It’s Been A Good Time…

Sheenah with her children, Jaden  and Atarah pose on the Big Oak.

"My last day at JPL will be January 26. 2018. Before I go, I wanted all of you to know that I will take great memories of experiences and opportunities I gleaned working in CR&M with all of you at JPL. There were many great days and some a bit more challenging; overall, I enjoyed my time here. Thanks for making an impact in my life. Now, I’m off to pursue things that I believe will continue the purpose God has for me: a career in dance and the arts.  Live your life to the fullest!   Sheenah Thrasher-Zamora, Community Relations & Marketing" 

Sarah Miller: Job Well Done!

Sarah Miller, a part-time shelver, was presented a Job Well Done Award January 12, 2018, by SOM Manager Ann Fridl. Former supervisor, Stefa Witt, wrote, "Sarah is a dependable shelver, whom we can always count on to shelve materials accurately and quickly.  She  provides quality customer service and is always willing to help customers in the stacks.  Sarah is a very talented artist and has kindly donated her talents at a number of events this past quarter.”

Kudos From Customers - January 2018

Kudos have always included compliments from customers that name employees specifically; however, thus far only generalized excellent service at branches has been commented on so this month an exception is made: 

Argyle Branch:  Great friendly service, I was very impressed.

Beaches Branch:  Everyone I had occasion to meet with was extremely pleasant, knowledgeable and helpful. I enjoy the peace and quiet surrounded by so many trips I can read about. I was also told about the "hold" system.

Pablo Creek Branch:  Was amazed about the excellent customer service provided! Definitely 5 stars. The lady was amazing!

Regency Square Branch:  My kids and I had a wonderful experience at the Regency Library. Thank you for making us feel welcome.

Webb Wesconnett Branch:  The woman who helped me was extremely polite and informative.

Alexander Hamilton At Main

The Main Library hosted an Alexander Hamilton reenactor, Eben Kuhn, and the program was presented by the National Society of Colonial Dames, January 16 and 17, 2018. About 800 5^th graders from public and private schools were bussed to Main for the program. After the performance, students participated in a Q&A with the founding father. Some students entered an essay writing competition wherein they wrote about Mr. Hamilton. Winners of the competition received a certificate signed by "Mr. Hamilton" and a ten dollar bill.

Left to right below: A representative from DCPS, a Colonial Dame, two essay winners, and "Alexander Hamilton."   (Thanks to Alexandra Bishop for input and pic.)

DU Celebrates Jags' Successes

Michelle Petrin reports, "Celebrating the Jags' successes, Felecia Battle created a fun display for January 2018 showing how much kids at Highlands Branch love the Jacksonville Jaguars. They were encouraged to color a football helmet to show some love. Thanks to Felecia for the great display idea!  Go Jags!"

Observation Station At SE Leaps To Reading

Southeast has leaped off 2018 with an observation station. Carol Bunker said, "We now have two tadpoles that parents and children can observe and watch grow into frogs. Children and parents are leaping into reading and wonder what little creature will come next to the observation station." 

Party for Stephanie Miller's New Baby Charlotte

Main Youth Services threw a baby welcoming party for YS Librarian IV Stephanie Miller’s baby, Charlotte, on January 11, 2018. The shower was Harry Potter themed and wizarding snacks such as chocolate frogs, a spell book cake, and pretzel wands were enjoyed by all. 

Going Away Party For Sharon Kirkes

WST Branch Manager Sharon Kirkes (3rd from left in front) transferred to Graham Branch, January 13, 2018.  Before she left, staff at West hosted a surprise party for Sharon.  She received a gift card to Panera Bread plus a huge good luck card signed by the entire staff and everyone enjoyed a table of delicious goodies.  It was a great sendoff for Sharon who will be missed by everyone at West.  (Thanks to Region Manager Lynne Baldwin for the input and pic.)

NS Staff Thankful For Brentwood Friends Support

"Chris Garmon created a bulletin board thanking the Friends of the Brentwood Library for their assistance supporting our children. Depicted here are the Grand Reopening, Santa visit (FOBL raised money to give 100 children gift bags with a book, ball and blanket) and protests to keep Brentwood Branch open. Additionally, they support the Fall Festival and Back to School event where every child gets a back pack filled with school supplies, " said Kathleen Krizek, Manager of  NS and EB Branches. 

KR's Hot Time With The Firemen

Mandarin Branch Library hosted “Touch a Truck” activity, January 6, 2018 with three firemen from Station 51 Fire Engine.  They explained to 62 kids and caregivers how the truck's engine works and the different parts and tools they use in cases of emergency. Above is part of the audience with Ms. Frances Wickes. Below, Isabel Moreno-Santiago is pictured with firemen Jennings, Vanderveer and Hatcher. 

Kids were delighted to see the fire truck up close and touch the siren. (Thanks to KR's Isabel Moreno-Santiago for the input and pictures.)

Ideas To Help Market Books

Above are some of Maxville Branch's displays by Jimmy Morgan, who made these models, and Jimmy wanted to share his eye catching models and thought they might spawn a few ideas for your areas.  At top is some hefty reindeer pulling Santa, second down is for Western fan readers, next: Super Heroes, & Adult Graphics.

Friends BOGO January Special

The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library's special sale is on for January 2018.  So, invite your customers, friends and family--and do yourself a favor, too.  FJPL is located at the south end of the University Park Branch Library, 3435 University Boulevard North:

ALL FICTION HARDBACK, SOFT COVER AND PAPERBACK BOOKS ARE BUY ONE GET ONE FREE DURING JANUARY! 

How To Get The Whole Family Into It

"Our 4^th annual Gingerbread House Decorating party at West Branch Library, December 15, 2017, was a resounding success as usual. Whole families got into the holiday spirit making these fun Christmas houses," said Melodie Brunson, pictured here with one of the younger participants, Tina, who has never missed one of these events and, as you see, all the folks who came to enjoy this family-friendly community event were not disappointed."

How Snow White Lives In Florida

Argyle Branch's Tonja Ferrell said, "Several weeks prior to our Teen/Tween Snow White sculpture event, I tickled the kids' imagination by asking them to guess the medium we would use to make their Snow White sculptures.  Prior to the event, December 23, 2017, no one had come up with the right answer.  To the teens' surprise, it was Styrofoam packing peanuts.  One of the boys thought it was a perfect choice since we live in Florida and SNOW White would melt, so the packing peanuts.  I told him he had nailed it.

"The teens had fun; one young lady came for the first time, specifically for this program.  She has since requested an app to join the TAB and Reading Buddies.  I thought this was  a great example of how Argyle is working on the Strategic Plan by supporting Citywide and departmental efforts to improve services to youth with partnerships and programs that promote education and enrichment."

Here's To The Friends Of JPL

WST's Library Clerk Jessica Carpenter showed her support for the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library with a display located in the center of the West Branch Library.  Region Manager Lynne Baldwin said, "Jessica knows how important the Friends are to JPL and to the community.  Jessica is planning on adding bookmarks to the display promoting the upcoming Friends Book Sale scheduled for February  9,10 & 11, 2018."

What a great idea and hopefully all of our locations will follow suit. 

Robin West-Rodger: Job Well Done

San Marco Branch's Robin West-Rodgers was presented a Job Well Done Award, December 22, 2017, by Kevin Douglas.  Kevin  credits Robin with successfully assisting with various projects, programs and events using her strong customer service skills.  For example, Robin's November 17th Stories for Young Children program was recently featured as part of JPL's YS new employee orientation. 

It's A Very Merry Time At Mandarin Branch

Isabel Santiago, KR YS librarian, Carlos Santiago and Santa host the big get together.

Santa Claus visited Mandarin Branch, December 21, to the delight of 160 kids and caregivers. Everyone enjoyed holiday songs led by guitarist, Carlos Santiago. Attendees

were also treated to stories and face painting. The children gave their letters to Santa and had pictures made with him.  (Most would like to have been there to sing along and give our wish list to Santa, Isabel.) 

Look Out Vogue - Here We Come!

Main embarked on an ugly sweater contest, December 20, 2017.  We have not yet seen the winners; however, here are a couple of entrants: JPL Training Library Assistant Diane Alexander and the JPL Foundation Development Director Dr. Jamie Self were anything but ugly in their Brightest and Merriest Christmas vests.  They made our day and we're green as the Grench with envy.

The Way It Was

Thirty people enjoyed Mandarin Branch's program, Back in the Bronx, December 19, 2017.  The visual 90 minute tour included some 500 slides and a number of videos of the Bronx in the 1940s, '50s and '60s, presented by Steve Samfur (R walking towards camera), editor-in-chief of Back in THE BRONX magazine.

Kudos From Customers

Main – Genealogy:  I suppose I am a little slanted in their favor since I use their expertise so much but I vote for Genealogy/Special Collections for Department of the Decade, at least. (Genealogy: Laura Minor, Christa Snow, James Brasfield, Catherine Currier, and John Wilson.)

Main – Makerspace and SST – E-Services:  Regarding classes offered in the Jax Makerspace: I recently took a sewing class (Nancy Swain) and thought it was just fantastic. Regarding the E-service's certification program: I live in Springfield and was participating in the computer classes working on my certification. The certification process got me to check out different libraries because the class I needed wasn't offered at Main at a time I could attend. I was quite pleased that I had a chance to check out another library. Overall, the library is doing great work.

Mandarin Branch: Mrs. (Isabel) Santiago, Wanted to thank you for being at the Mandarin Library.  My great granddaughter needed a science experiment and you told us about the carnations.  Thought I would share one thing from the weekend when we got back from Winn-Dixie with the flowers. I told her to go ahead and get the water in vases.  Well Isabella got three Mason glasses instead of vases out and cut the stems and showed me the flowers floating on top of the water; oh boy! So back to the store for more flowers.  I will never forget.  May you and yours have a safe and happy new year.  Oh, Isabella got a 95 on her project.

Pablo Creek Branch: I am extremely satisfied with all the staff at Pablo Creek Library. However, I am especially pleased to have interacted with an employee of yours named, Jason Enoex. The guy was INCREDIBLE! He has gone out of his way numerous times to talk with me, show me to the right resources or help me with my searches. The guy is amazing. He always stops what he is doing, greets me with a smile and asks me how he can help today. He is personable, professional, knowledgeable,... the guy always seems to be at the library and always seems to be working hard. It is so nice to see such a positive and motivated individual! He has made some difficult work much easier by patiently explaining what I need to do and where I can find the information I am looking for. ...

West Branch:  I have visited the Chaffee Road Library every week for many years and have come to know the staff there very well. They are all very polite, eager to assist me with any requests, problems, and suggestions to make sure that my visits each week are memorable. Just wanted Human Relations to know that you have an awesome staff at the West Branch. (WST staff:  Sharon Kirkes, Eve Harm, John Jessee, Dana Curry, Julie Horton, Bill Figlietti, Shannon Buchanan, Latisha Woolbright, Jessica Carpenter, Melodie Brunson, Jessica Roling, Kelsey Groth, & Stephanie Brantly,)

Don't Say Cheese; Say Merry Christmas!

Seventy nine people attended AR's story time and Santa visit, December 19, 2017. After Santa read to the little children and heard their requests, he didn't forget the big kids at Regency Square Branch. Sabrina Whitfield shares these photos and wants you to know ALL of the kids enjoyed Santa's visit. Below are some of the staff in the holiday spirit. L/R are Sabrina, Lauren Lazar and Ann Ludke. 

 

Good Ideas For Gifts At KR

Mandarin Library's Manager Mark Hohnadel invites you to a treat for your eyes and a few of the exeptional paintings are pictured here.  Mark says, "Mandarin is proud to host a display of various local artists.  The display will be up for an undetermined period of time and the paintings can be purchased.  The exhibit has been organized by Ronald Episcopo of the Jacksonville Artists Guild.  Come on out!" 

Nikki Denton: Job Well Done!

Nikki Denton plays a critical role in Pablo Creek Branch's Turn It Up! monthly, one of a kind program as well as in other areas. Although she works only 25 hours a week, Stacey Van Hoy, who nominated Nikki for a Job Well Done Award, says, "She is second to none in innovation and teamwork and is a creative engine, sparking ideas and action. Nikki is not only our photographer for Turn It Up!, she has created spectacular slat wall backdrops, crafts and games for that and other programs.  Her shadow puppets for the African folktale Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock captivated staff and customers, bringing to life an old story.  She created a Harry Potter display, made dragon's eggs and a craft for children. For Build a Better World, she created a seed bomb craft, showing kids of all ages how to add beauty to the world by planting a seed bomb wherever you want flowers." Nikki received her Job Well Done Award, November 8, 2017.

UMMM-UMMM Good

"For the second year in a row, Mandarin Branch Library celebrated our “Holiday Tree Swap,” organized by Library Clerk Caitlin Ruvolo (pictured here.) During this activity, the staff enjoyed hot cocoa and sweet treats. Additionally, they took home boxes full of leftover goodies," said YS Librarian I Isabel Santiago-Moreno  

KR's Santiago Visits Crown Point Elementary

Mandarin Branch Library's YS Librarian I Isabel Santiago attended a Crown Point Elementary Literacy Event, December 18, 2017. During this special activity different persons from all areas of Jacksonville read a book to different classes from pre-K to 5^th grade. Here you see Ms. Santiago with Ms. Carol Turknett, Pre-K class teacher, after reading the book , The Three Snow Bears, by Jan Brett.

Small Kids W/Big Hearts Delight Santa & Quench The Grinch

Santa Visits the Highlands Library:  Stories for Young Children, December 13, 2017, saw small children arrive dressed in their holiday best, mainly sparkly dresses and little dress shirts.  The program was presented by Library Assistant Felecia Battle, assisted by YS Associate Beverly Mason.  “Ms. Felecia”  shared the book, Bears Stay Up for Christmas, and led the families in song.  Next, the children practiced their colors by hanging paper ornaments on a mini Christmas tree.  Afterward, each of the children received a goodie bag filled with “reindeer noses” (chocolate covered raisins) and made reindeer hats while waiting for their turn to meet Santa.  It was a wonderful morning full of Christmas spirit!

Girls of Jacksonville Daisy Troop # 2324 created playful winter decorations for DU's Children’s department.

Highlands Display Highlights Kindness:  

The Grinch’s heart was 2 sizes too small. 

So kids and families at Highlands

Shared their acts of kindness

With good deeds to show love for all.

                                          Grinch display created by Lorna Reid

Deck The Halls With Loads of Cookies

South Mandarin Library had a cookie decorating program and a Santa visit, December 15, 2017. SOM's two elves, YS Librarian III Mia Brack and Part-time Library Associate Carissa Charest, helped at the cookie stations. Eighty children took part in decorating a cookie, face painting, and telling Santa what they want. Some of the requested items were a train track, a baby doll, and a real dinosaur, not a fake one.  (Thanks to  Library Associate Christie Rogers for the input & pic.) 

The More The Much Merrier

Northwest Branch's Vickie Leonard really went all out for Christmas 2017 decorating these trees in different splendor. Isn't this a great idea! 

Betty Person Retires After 40 Years

Pictured center is Library Assistant Betty Person who retired December 8, 2017, with 40 years of service.  Pictured are Margaret Morford (front) and Main POP Librarian III Kathleen Brunner stands behind Betty.  Margaret and Kathleen hosted a retirement lunch and others brought items for the get together honoring Betty the day of her retirement.  Many of her coworkers came to wish her the very best as she starts a new chapter in life. As usual Betty brought her fabulous smile for all of her well wishers.

Manager of the Grand Reading Room Margaret Morford said, "Betty Person began working at the library as a student in Circulation, promoted to part-time and then to full-time. Betty worked in most of the departments at Main and at Graham Branch.  Most recently, she has been a part of the Main Popular Department/Grand Reading Room staff for over a year, and we were glad to have her as a part of our Popular Department team."

Library Board Chair Ronnie King and Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop commended Betty's 40 years of service at the Board's December 14, 2017 meeting and presented her with a bouquet of red roses.