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.”

Study Buddy Goes to Ralph Henderson

SOM’s YS Librarian II Margo Crafton gave the Study Buddy she recently received to SOM's Library Associate Ralph Henderson for his amazing customer service and his database knowledge that is beneficial to the branch. (Thanks to Christie Rogers for the input & pic.)

Theo Tarver, Alvin Joyner & Preston Stokes: Job Well Done!

Assistant Director for SST Gretchen Mitchell said, "Theo ,  "AJ", and Preston were tasked with moving supplies, furniture and equipment with minimal instructions and a deadline. 

                

"Not only was everything moved ahead of schedule, everything was neatly arranged, well organized, and a particularly fragile item was placed in a protected area.

                

"This work is just an example of the strong sense of teamwork that all three men regularly show as well as their commitment to striving for excellence even with every day, non-glamorous tasks."  

FIRST Grads of Career Online High School In FL Walk At JPL

Director Barbara Gubbin &;Howard Liebman, Ph.D, congratulate six of nine graduates.

Katie Devanny, Program Manager for the Center for Adult Learning reports, "On September 28, 2016, six adults crossed JPL's Hicks Auditorium to receive the first of many to come Career Online High School diplomas. The graduates were awarded scholarships through the Jacksonville Public Library to attend Smart Horizons: Career Online High School. The graduation ceremony is the first for JPL and the first library in the state of Florida!  (JPL was one of the original eleven libraries in Florida selected by the State to offer COHS.)

"Six of the students (three could not attend), who graduated are pictured above. They are L/R: Tywanda Sheffield, Kenneth Moore, Nano Malilho, Khadjah Dunnam, Jolessa Davis, and Yosef Avraham.  Yosef  (below) was the student speaker.

"Kate Stewart (right) was the keynote speaker for JPL's inaugural graduation.  Ms. Stewart is the Cofounder and Executive Director of the non-profit JaxCoE-Jacksonville Community of Entrepreneurs. She has an extensive background in risk management, education, culture studies, and entrepreneurship. Ms. Stewart has founded several companies. She is an instructor for the Army's Foreign Military and Culture Studies. She knows first-hand about the value of education, as well the hard work and determination needed to succeed. Her pitch is 'It is never too late to pursue your dreams.' She shared this philosophy with the graduates and challenged each of them to listen to the narratives in their lives and where it is taking them.  

"JPL was honored to have Amy Johnson, State Librarian, Dr. Charles Moreland, Director of Community Affairs for COJ, and Dr. Howard Leibman, Cofounder and CEO of Smart Horizons Career Online High School, as guest speakers at the graduation.

"To date JPL has awarded 63 scholarships, and Tammy Owens, Literacy Program Supervisor, interviews each potential candidate before awarding a scholarship.

                                          Katie Devanny with some of the graduates.

"The Center for Adult Learning manages COHS, however, we know that it is a system wide effort to promote the program. Thank you for sharing the information with your customers, and a special thank you to Karen Walker and Luis Terron for creating JPL's tassel bling: a great keepsake for the graduates."

Who Will We Really Miss? Michael Shell Retires 9/29/16

Mike Shell, Librarian III and Training Coordinator for JPL is retiring September 29, 2016, after 16 years with JPL.  He has worked at CW and SE, in ILS, Main Reference, and later took over Training in October 2012 after Sara Radovic. Mike plans to further develop his

writing, editing, and photography skills and do freelance work in those areas. Mike was honored at a luncheon with much home-cooked dishes and goodies on his next to last day and Julie McNeil had to get a photo with him.  He leaves us this note: 

Folks,

I have three encouragements to give all of you:

First, to our customers, if you work in the library you are a librarian.  That’s a good thing.  They come to the library because they know and trust that you will find a way to help them.

Second, you are what libraries have that tops Google and Amazon.  You are skilled human beings who help customers put their needs into the right words and to find the best solutions.

Third, your customers know that public libraries are “first responders.”  Libraries are among the few public services agencies where people can still walk in and talk face to face with expert problem-solvers.

When you think about your own library career, therefore, don’t worry about training hours.

Instead, ask for learning experiences which will help you feel better and more competent as you serve your public.

You are wonderful people.

Blessings,

Mike

JPL Scores Wins At NEFLIN Awards Ceremony

JPL was well represented at NEFLIN's (Northeast Florida Library Information Network) annual meeting, September 23, 2016, at the Thrasher-Horne Conference Center in Orange Park.  Lasting most of the day, a good lunch was served with a gold rimmed NEFLIN 2016 Olympic plate as the centerpiece on each table.  Awards were presented by NEFLIN's Executive Director Brad Ward.

To celebrate unity as an organization, everyone who registered received a pair of red Converse All Stars tennis shoes with NEFLIN embroidered on the sides.

JPL's Manager of Strategic Initiatives Richard Mott is President of the NEFLIN Board.  He introduced new and retiring board members and announced all of the winners and Olympic Game participants.

Library Director Barbara Gubbin, pictured below with Brad Ward, received the Innovation Award for the Student Library Card Initiative.


JPL's Manager of YS & CO Amber Holley won the Member of the Year Award for her excellent management of the Student Library Card Initiative.

JPL's Bibliographic Systems & Access Manager Lynn Jacobson was a semi-finalist in NEFLIN's Olympic Games and she, along with other contestants, had the "honor" of being wrapped in toilet paper.

JPL donated two of 22 gift baskets that were auctioned off at the event.  Proceeds go to the Jim Morris Continuing Education Fund, which sponsors members' attendance at worthwhile training events and conferences.

Pictured below are all of the winners of 2016 NEFLIN awards: (L/R: Elizabeth Curry, Distinguished Career Award; Director Gubbin, Innovation Award; President of the Friends of Fernandina Beach Library L. Dee Torre Kaufman, Library Champion Award; and Manager of YS & CO Amber Holley, Member of the Year.

Additionally, Director Gubbin was pleased to receive NEFLIN'S Golden Apple Award.  The Jacksonville Public Library had the most employees, out of all of NEFLIN's members, who attended their professional training and conferences.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS FROM ALL OF US!

Two DCPS Visits At CW

YS Librarian III Phenessa Gray shares their good news about Crystal Springs Elementary students' visit, September 22, 2016.  She said, "Janice Adams did an awesome job giving the 47 kindergartners a tour.  Rafael Reid (center above) did a great job engaging the students in Storytime.  

Branch Manager Kathy Tekin did equally as well sharing fun facts with thirty-five 4^th graders. They learned  about the types of books students can check out . And, the 4^th graders had a blast with the scavenger hunt. 

CW’s DCPS student visits were a success for all of us and the students had a pleasurable, educational experience at their library."