BIG Friends of JPL Sale & New Hours

Harry Reagan, President of the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library sent this update to Friends members late afternoon, January 10, which we want to share with all JPL staff: 

"I want to tell you about a special deal we’re offering our members – 50% off on all purchases of used books at our BOOKtique in the Main Library downtown, and at our Saturday Morning Bookstore at University Park Library, 3435 University Blvd. N. The 50% discount starts now, and will end January 31.

"Also, the Saturday Morning Bookstore is going to become the Tuesday Morning Bookstore and the Thursday Morning Bookstore for a while. We’ll be open from 9:00 to noon on Tuesday and Thursday, as well as Saturday.

"As you know, the regular member discount is 20%, so 50% is a very good deal.

"Please tell your friends and neighbors about this and suggest that they become FJPL members. Here are the membership prices: Family, $25; Individual, $15; Senior Citizen and Student, $10."

Pablo Creek's Avant-Garde Automated System Installed

Pablo Creek Regional Library's new automated materials return system, officially called "3MTM Intelligent Return and Sorter System", was installed December 20 and opened to the public on January 5, 2012.  This system instantly checks in materials, then sorts returns into bins for shelving.  Click here and scroll down to get a quick view of how the automated system works:  https://www.facebook.com/#!/pablo.creek.library.

What are the advantages of such an automated system?  Quick, accurate check in of materials, items returned to shelves quicker and available for check out again; holds are available for immediate processing, more staff time to assist customers--and less staff injury and physical strain.  An exclamation point could be added after this impressive list of attributes!

We can again thank The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library for providing major funding for this system. 

SAT Study Group for Teens at Pablo Creek Branch

Pablo Creek is hosting an SAT study group for teens on Monday evenings at 6:00 pm, January 23 and January 20, 2012.  Apprise teens who visit your library that they can contact teen librarian Curt Beadell to register. 

Classical Guitarist at MH for Holiday Program

Classical guitarist Jeffrey Bianchi played to a filled room of appreciative folks at Murray Hill Branch Library during a holiday program recently.  The Friends of the Murray Hill Library and these local merchants provided refreshments:  The Crazy Egg, Edgewood Bakery, and Moon River.  Many thanks to all of MH's Friends and friends. 

A story time craft for children followed the performance. 

Feast Your Eyes at Pablo Creek Branch

PCR Manager Carol Bailey invites you and your customers to a real treat:  “Oil Paintings by Chen Qitao” are on display throughout the month of January at Pablo Creek Branch.  A couple of samples like these will whet any artistic taste buds one may have (or could create some for anyone who doesn't have 'em.) 

Next month the Pablo Creek Art Gallery will feature a display called “My World Through Impressionistic Eyes: Paintings by Judy Craft”.  Ms. Craft's art will be on display the entire month of February. 

Ms. Bailey is looking for artists to feature for the rest of this year, and if anyone knows any good artists who would be interested in exhibiting at Pablo Creek, please contact her:  phone: 992-7101; or email her.  Your suggestions are appreciated.

Staff Profile

Harry Reagan wrote this introduction for Ricardo Montoya, a dedicated volunteer for the JPL Friends.  We would like to add that JPL could not be as successful in customer service without the JPL Friends and volunteers such as Mr. Montoya (foreground in picture).

“As president of the Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library, I recruit and train lots of volunteers. They are an amazing group of people and FJPL could not do what it does without them. Ricardo Montoya is an outstanding volunteer. He came to one of our book sales (as a customer) and we recruited him (as a volunteer). He stayed throughout that sale and worked very hard. He kept on working afterward, helping us sort books at our Book Warehouse and helping organize subsequent book sales. He was chosen 2010 Volunteer of the Year and elected to the FJPL Board of Directors. He now chairs FJPL’s book sales committee. We are very proud of Ricardo and we appreciate this recognition.”

Q: Mr. Montoya, you were recruited as a volunteer for FJPL at a Great Annual Book Sale. How long ago was that and what particularly interested you?

A: It was almost four years ago while browsing through the non-fiction section at the March 2008 Sale that I answered a request for volunteer help, donned a blue apron, and began my volunteer experience with FJPL by assisting with the checkout process. That day was very exciting for me, being of service and also being surrounded by so many others who share my interest in books/knowledge.

I continue to feel that same excitement at each sale and through our sorting process. That coupled with the camaraderie of my fellow volunteers, makes all of the work we do worthwhile.

Q: You are FJPL's 2010 Volunteer of the Year. Could you tell us about the different types of volunteer activities you have done with the Friends?

A: Currently, as Sales Committee Chair, my major focus is the logistics and planning to create a better customer experience at our book sales by having on display as many categories of books as possible, highlighting categories for quick search and to maintain an accessible path for everyone. In between the sales, I continue to participate in the book sorting process (mostly in non-fiction) where I began. And, whenever I visit the Main Library, I make time to assist as needed in the Friends' Booktique store, and at times bring books and media from our warehouse to re-stock the store.

A couple of years ago, I also began volunteering weekly at my local Willowbranch Library, where I do receiving and re-shelving of books and assist the many great library associates and members.

Q: You also joined FJPL's board this year and must believe FJPL provides an important service to to this community. What value do you think FJPL brings to the library and the Jacksonville community as a whole?

A: Yes, our main goal in relation to the Library is to provide additional funds to assist them in fulfilling their mission and achieving their goals. To the community, we provide the opportunity for Jacksonville residents to purchase books at a much discounted price.

Q: You have a myriad of experience in industrial, manufacturing, service in the U.S. Marine Corps, and now you are an emergency planning consultant. Of all these pursuits, which one proved most rewarding and why?

A: I feel that my life’s experiences have been rewarding and believe that they have led me to this point in life to incorporate and funnel those traits back into the community. I like the independence that being self-governed provides me, and it allows me the flexibility to continue my volunteer activities. My experience in the Marine Corp provided me with a global perspective, the self-discipline, and the awareness of the importance of maintaining a state of preparation, which eventually brought me to my current endeavor as an Emergency Planning Consultant, which, by the way is not about beans, bullets, band aids and bottled water; it is the ability to create as an event unfolds.

Q: Do you have leisure activities other than volunteering?

A: Absolutely; keeping physically fit is an imperative in my mind and also allows me to express my competitive nature. Right now, I’m focused on improving my handball game to compete again at the national level and at the same time promote this sport that I love playing here in Jacksonville. I’m a longtime competitor and teacher in both handball and racquetball and I am very good at both. Running is also an integral part of my fitness regimen, and I make time each year to run in both the Gate River Run and the Marine Corp Half-Marathon.

And, of course, I enjoy reading and collecting books.

4th Annual Polar Express Movie Party at CW

Webb Wesconnett's customers enjoyed their 4^th annual Polar Express movie and party.  They were treated to cookies, popcorn, hot cocoa, candy and prizes. Special guest--and former Administrative Supervisor, now retired--Margaret Smith came by and read The Night Before Christmas.  Then everyone jumped on board "the train" and sang Christmas carols, snacked, and then played games.  They concluded with the movie and candy canes with Santa bells attached were passed out to the 62 in attendance. 

Elves, Humans, and Santa at CW

Ninety six elves and other humans of various sizes were hosted by Webb Wesconnett Branch staff for breakfast, December 19.  Santa Claus arrived right on time, as usual, and everyone enjoyed their breakfast even more as they listened to Christmas music played by Al the Banjo Player and sang Christmas carols.  Then they went on a parade singing to the customers. Kids wrote letters to Santa, played games, and all received a book from Santa. (Attendees were asked to dress like an elf or wear red and green.  Mark Preston, CW's part-time shlever, obviously was pleased to play Santa.) Laurie Mills, CW Library Associate, reports that everyone enjoyed the program and it was a huge success.

A Christmas Carol at CW

December 1 saw the first of a series of Christmas programs at Webb Wesconnett Branch.  Here you see a picture of Hampstead Stage Co. actors keeping the avid attention of the audience of 41 during the play, A Chistmas Carol.

Mrs. Claus Visits West Regional Branch

West Regional Library had a grand style celebration, December 21, hosting a holiday party for 40+ attendees.  They were treated with a storytime from Mrs. Claus, who borrowed Santa's sleigh for the long trip from the North Pole--just in time for this event. After storytime, everyone enjoyed a sing-along accompanied by Justin Keiser on the tuba. Then, kids of all ages made edible holiday trees and cards, gingerbread ornaments and candy cane reindeer. (Who didn't appreciate tasting the fruit of their labor?)  To top it off, partiers had one lucky stocking winner and everyone loved their present from the library: books of their own to keep.  (Inside tip: that's Eve Harm in the red outfit.  WST's Chris Cavan, in lavendar below, was charmed by Mrs. Claus' storytime, too.) 

Brown Eastside Branch Customers Spread Cheer

Eastside Branch brightened up their library with decorations. Two of their young customers added their talent and bright smiles to bring Christmas cheer and took time to pose for these photos. Patricia Brown (left) and Zaryuana Williams showed off their front desk decorations and Zaryuana stands beside the Christmas tree she and Patricia decorated. How's that for (heart) your library? 

Kudos from Customers

Main - Center for Adult Learning: “We would like, through the teacher, Florinda Martinez’s bilingual ability, to thank God that gave us the strength and desire to get to this great country. To all of the Center for Adult Learning employees that have taken a part, in one way or another, in introducing us to this society and learning the English language. ... Our most special gratitude to our teachers that have tended to us as students, as people and why not say it, as family. Thank you for being patient with us and for putting all of your effort into helping us. Happy Holidays! Hoping that next year will bring to all happiness and the required health to continue being who you are: EXTRAORDINARY HUMAN BEINGS. ..."

Main - Interlibrary Loan: “Over the past two years I've been the beneficiary of the most conscientious, courteous and diligent service imaginable. I'm therefore taking this opportunity to write to let you know that Carolyn Hampton in Inter-Library Loans has been simply superb. … She's so excellent at tracking down articles for me and keeping me informed as to the status of her search. … When my book gets completed I will owe her a debt of gratitude that I could never repay. …”

Main – Reference & Periodicals: “I received excellent and very speedy assistance from Greg (Royce). He went above and beyond by emailing me an obituary from an archived paper. I am most appreciative and cannot thank him enough for his wonderful assistance and devotion to his job.”

Main – Teen Dept.: "Fashion – Origami Ring facilitated by Angela Gaines.  This program was nice and worth the time. I hope to have future programs similar. I had a good time."

Southeast Regional: “Anita Haller is wonderful! I enjoyed story time and can't wait to see and hear Anita again. She filled my heart with joy! She put a huge smile on my face and heart.”

State Senator John Thrasher Speaks at Southeast

Southeast Branch's Children's Department had a sensational Holiday Storytime on Saturday, December 17. State Senator John Thrasher, pictured right of the door, was the guest storyteller.  (Anita Haller, Librarian Senior, stands right of the window, decked out in red for the occasion.)  Library Board Member Christina Stallings was present to help get the popcorn ready for the 169 parents and kids in attendance. 

Lynne Baldwin, SE Branch Manager, said they were honored to have Senator Thrasher and Ms. Stallings' support.  Everyone enjoyed the stories, doing crafts, and refreshments. 

Councilman Don Redman Reads to Kids at the Main Library

City Councilman Don Redman shared The Mitten, by Jan Brett, with children on December 10 in the Children's Department of the Main Library.  This was part of the Festival of Trees program. About 25 parents and children listened to the story and then went to the art room for a related craft. Junior League volunteers helped the children decorate their own pair of felt mittens. CM Redman is the City Council representative for District 4, which includes the Downtown area. The children and parents enjoyed his reading and we really appreciate his participation and the volunteers who helped make this a successful event. 

E-Reader Class in January for Customers and Staff

Sandra Ostroski, Senior Librarian at the Beaches Branch, and Donna Peretzman, E-Specialist, will present an E-Book Tips program, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm, at JB on January 11, 2012.  JPL staff, as well as customers, can pre-register by calling (241-1141) or staff can email Ms. Ostroski.  Seating will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.  JPL staff can receive City training credit.  Staff should not register in the Time Management System.  Staff (and customers) must pre-register and staff must sign the sign-in sheet that will be provided by Ms. Ostroski at the program.  After this program, Ms. Ostroski will fax the sign-in sheet to Sara Radovic, JPL’s Training Coordinator, and she will see that each employee who completes this 1½ hour E-Book Tips program gets training credit.

Ms. Ostroski thought E-readers would be a popular gift this Cristmas and planned this class--another good customer service idea from our creative staff.

2011 Employee Survey Results

Here is the PowerPoint presentation made by Deputy Director Carolyn Williams today at the Library Leadership meeting at West Regional Library.  Library Director and Mrs. Williams encourage you to read the results of the Employee Survey (please click on link in blue) made this year, and if you have questions, please email Mrs. Williams.

Just In From The Friends of JPL Chair Nitya Iyer

Nitya Iyer, Membership Chair, Friends of Jacksonville Public Library, Inc., stated recently, "This year, we decided to bring our book sales home to our warehouse at the University Park Branch Library. These warehouse sales, held in June, September, and December, were a first for us, and judging from the enthusiasm we saw, they will certainly not be the last. With the proceeds from the sales, as well as the efforts of BOOKtique and the Saturday Morning Bookstore, we have donated $250,000 to the library in 2011."  She added that the Friends would not have been able to do that without the interest and support of Friends members.

A new year begins soon and Ms. Iyer invites all Friends members to renew their membershps and, if you have not yet joined the Friends, please consider doing so soon. Ms. Iyer said, "We look forward to continuing to promote public interest and support for the services and special needs of the Jacksonville Public Library."

Friends membershps for a year are:  $10 for student and senior; individual, $15; family, $25.  You can also volunteer with the Friends.  Please mail your check to Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library, Inc., 303 N. Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32202.

Staff Profile

As Argyle Branch recently faced the possible loss of children’s programming staff and reduced programming options for preschoolers, Noah Thomas, Library Clerk, according to her branch manager, Amber Holly, “…took the initiative to ensure that AYL remains an important destination for those who are seeking quality preschool programming…” How did Noah do that? She sought preschool programming training, consulted with Susan Mankowski, JPL’s Early Education Specialist, JPL children’s librarians, and attended many preschool programs around the city. Ms. Holly says Noah knows the importance of providing programs that address all six critical areas of pre-literacy development and infused her training into a successful toddler program that she produces weekly. 

No wonder she won awards for the JPL Employee of the Quarter and Inspired A Shared Vision for the fourth quarter.

Q: What inspired your interest in preschool programs?

A: I was inspired to do preschool programs because I saw with my own two daughters how the concept of teaching them things at a young age has a tremendous impact on them. Children want to learn. They are so curious and we, as parents and teachers, must be willing to give them the tools to explore and opportunities to use their imaginations.

Q: How does preschool programming help prepare kids for first grade?

A: When children go to a preschool setting—apart from everyday surroundings—it exposes them to valuable life skills, which can only be found in this kind of environment. It also prepares them academically because they will be familiar with the content that is being taught in school. As a result, they will have a “jumpstart”, which is a building block for children, their teachers, and parents.

Q: What are the six areas of pre-literacy development that you have infused in all of your programs?

A: During my program, I try to offer (1) a variety of concepts for the parents and children to learn. To me, it doesn't matter the age of the child; (2) it matters how you present the skill. (3) When I introduce letters and numbers, we go over the sound and I use it in a word to show the children how it relates to something else. With our numbers, we count with our fingers and sometimes relate that number to something they can see or touch. The children in my program are a bit young (18 months – three years and most are younger than three) to write, (4) so I will sometimes write or draw whatever I am talking about so they can see it. (5) I always wrap it up by showing the parents books and coloring pages that I have prepared in relation to the lesson so that (6) teaching and learning can continue at home.

Q: Are there additional things you have learned that would help other staff improve preschool programs?

A: One thing I have learned while doing my programs is to just have fun. You must see yourself as a child all over again and look at things through their eyes. Everyone likes a special treat or something unique that will make the storybook come alive. I try to include a lot of hands-on items. That way the children will see and understand the story a lot better.

Q: What is your favorite spare-time activity?

A: My favorite spare time thing is hanging out with my two daughters. Whether we are going to the park or making up a game at home, that is where I find my joy.

Engendering Future Adult JPL Customers w/Engaging Kids Programs Today

On November 14, Tiger Scout Group, Den No. 5, met at San Marco Branch for a prearranged library tour, tiger-themed storytime and scavenger hunt.  The den leader sent a note afterwards to Youth Services Librarian Michelle Petrin, "I can't thank you enough for the wonderful evening you gave to the Scouts and us parents.  I can see that you put a lot of time into your preparation and I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate it.  We all had a great time and I learned so many things as well.  I can clearly see that you chose the right profession!..."

Forty two children attended SS's Movie and Craft Afternoons in November.  School age programs included After School Music Club meet-ups, and their ASMC program consisted of several music activities and fun outlets for creative expression.  Family preschool storytimes and preschool craft themes for November included "Mind Your Manners", which included a table setting craft/activity, as well as a special Thanksgiving and "Winter Is Almost Here" storytime.

"Principal" Eve Harm Starts Her Day w/A Bang

There's always a way to promote JPL and bring something back from the community.  Eve Harm, West Regional Branch Librarian, reports a unique day's experience, November 7:  "I participated in the 2011-2012 Principal for a Day Event with the Duval County Schools. It is a program where community members are allowed to become a "principal" for a day. I was assigned to shadow a principal, Marie Antoine, at Whitehouse Elementary.

"Our day started with a bang. Literally. There was an accident in which a school bus was rear ended and the car drove away without stopping. Everyone was fine but just like us, they had a ton of paperwork to fill out. There were also parents to call, children to get breakfast and send to class and calls to the district to be made. It made for an interesting start of the day. But that ever changing day to day situations, I found out, was what Ms. Antoine liked best about her job.

"In addition to this incident, I also had the chance to sit in an observation, meet with teachers about changes in policy and procedure, tour the school, review the principal's very busy schedule and ask all sorts of questions. She also shared with me information about Read It Forward Jax to share with library patrons.

"Our day ended very much like it started with heading out to the bus loading area to make sure students left school safely. It was a truly enlightening and educational experience. I learned that, like us, they are dealing with major cutbacks in budget and, like us, they are still striving to do their best with less."