Fun With Coding At NW

Andy Gallegos, YS Librarian I, said, "NW held an Early Release Fun program, November 29, 2017, enjoyed by our school age kids. Thanks to NEFLIN, we obtained Osmo Coding game equipment to use and the children enjoyed the graphics and building on basic coding concepts with various pieces of the activity. They started with a simple tutorial and soon advanced to more complex coding commands--all the while having a blast!"

November Thanksgiving At WST

West Library's YS Librarian I Eve Harm wanted you to know how they celebrated Thanksgiving, "For the month of November, customers wrote what they were thankful for on our autumn leaves.  The leaves were displayed on a bulletin board tree and owl in the Children's department.  Our owl, inspired by all these great thanks, remarks 'Owl always be thankful for...'  It was a great collaboration between WST's staff and customers. 

"For Ms. Melodie’s last November Music and Movement, we gave thanks for the West Branch Library.  We shared Thanksgiving songs and rhymes and learned about Native Americans.  Afterwards, we enjoyed a yummy feast complete with apple cider, mashed potatoes, veggies and cookies.  (What's Thanksgiving without a feast?  I even caught a little of her storytime via video https://youtu.be/IGaHzRpVkQI ".)

Getting To Know You

Urban Librarian IV Stephanie Miller was in the Main Library earlier in November with her newborn, Charlotte. Staff  were busy oohing and ahhing and forgot to get the details of when and where Charlotte made her first appearance.  The proud mom may share more about their bundle of joy when she comes back to work.

Sherlock Science Comes Alive At DU

Highlands Branch YS Services Librarian II Lorna Reid reports, "I created one of our Homeschool STEAM programs this month entitled 'Sherlock Science' that was a huge success. Homeschooled children not only learned the basics and history of forensic science and fingerprinting, they enjoyed a sampling of classic literature learning about Sherlock Holmes. As an added treat, Officers Misty Turner and Brenda Grant from the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office shared their extensive experience in the field. The kids really liked it when the officers took time to fingerprint everyone and answer their many questions with enthusiasm. It was an interactive, engaging program that showed children how science works in the real world and how much fun it can be."

Southeast's I'm Thankful Tree

 Carol Bunker, SE's YS Librarian II, shares their I'm Thankful Tree.  Carol said, "We put up the tree and had leaves on the children’s reference desk. We asked children to write what they were thankful for and place it anywhere they wanted on the tree. It turned out really nice.

KEEP TAKING NEFLIN CLASSES

Interim Library Director Jennifer Giltrop reminds us of the importance of  taking advantage of  the opportunities for taking classes sponsored by NEFLIN for training and continuing education. Have you scheduled a NEFLIN class lately? 

Kudos from Customers

Beaches:  I use this library very often and Gail (Blumberg) has always been very helpful. Any problem I have she is always right there to assist. This library is very fortunate to have her as an employee. If books aren't available, she helps me locate which library has them and orders them for me. If the book isn't available anywhere, she puts in a request to see if it can be ordered.

Main - Makerspace:  (Sara Radovic & Shawana Brooks)  I was born and raised in Jacksonville but moved away for college. I stayed away for an additional 15 years but I moved back to Jacksonville ten years ago. I had never been to the downtown library. I was introduced to it through Markerspace. I doubt I will ever visit another library. I have now been to every opening and look forward to attending events here. Markerspace has reminded me of why I always loved the library. Now I'm back to visiting the library to read magazines and newspapers, to check out books and audiobooks, or to just go and have a quiet space to read. I forgot how much I loved to read! Not only has Markerspace given me a place to go experience amazing art and culture but it's given me back a part of me that I was missing. So thank you, Jacksonville Public Library System for the amazing work you are doing there!

Pablo Creek:  My son and I visited this location today and it's by far the BEST location that I've been to out of all the JAX Public Library System!. I love it here! Storytime was amazing with Tristan (Denmark) and the staff here were so nice & interactive with my son - which means a lot to me! I will certainly be back every week with my son--every week! 

South Mandarin:  I wanted to say thank you to Angela (Richman) for taking the time to show me several resources on the library website that I can used for my daughter. I had no idea that all of these resources existed and she offered to show them to me which I really appreciated. She should give a class on this every now and then on Saturdays for parents to discover all of the tutoring resources, testing resources and scholarship resources, etc. Thanks again, Angela, for all of the information you shared with me today!

Wilowbranch: (Scott Adams, Ryan Reid, Jason Brown, Isabelle Pierre, Michael Cooper, Troy Eittreim, Joe Gaskin, & Susan Koedel), & Mary Swinney) I just want to thank you guys for all that you do for the community. I have 4 children who have been going to the library weekly for story time, to load up on books for my older children and myself. The children’s programming has been so good--from parties to the summer reading incentives. I truly appreciate the friendly atmosphere and attentive staff. Thank you guys for making my job as mom a little easier!

Look What You Provided For Thanksgiving Dinners: THANK YOU!

Here you see a small portion of the many gifts of food that you donated--there's a lot more going out to families from JPL. Nicolle Burton said, "My sincere thanks to you for thinking of the less fortunate this Thanksgiving. JPL generously donated 27 baskets and several boxes and bags of food so far and there’s eight more baskets on the way!  Baskets were received from: SST, the Webb Region, Highlands, Regency, Mandarin; and Main's departments, including Finance, Conference Center, POP, Special Collections & NF, Teens & Children’s and Admin.

"To Diane Alexander and Donna Crowther: I thank you for helping me get everything delivered to its destination."  

Friends of JPL November Book Sale

If you are not a Friends member you can be for just $5.00, which is an investment for you and JPL--and you will help support an organization that supports us BIG TIME.

Members and non-members are in for big bargains THIS WEEKEND. You and your customers can shop for your holiday gifts and make someone(s) happy with their favorite CDs, DVDs or books BECAUSE THE PRICE IS RIGHT:

FRIENDS OF THE JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOK SALE:

Friday, November 17, 2017, 4-8 PM:  Members only (but you can join at the door for $5.00)
             Buy 1 bag; get 2nd bag free - Plus get members 25% discount off: cost: $11.25

Saturday, November 18, 2017, 9 AM - 4 PM: $15/bag; plus buy 2 bags & get a 3rd bag free.

Sunday, November 19: Noon - 5 PM:  $15/bag; buy 1 bag & get 2nd bag free (clearance sale)
                                                          Add 7% sales tax to all purchases.

The Friends warehouse, located at the south end of the UPK building, is where their book sales are held.  Tell your customers, friends and family how to get big bargains, won't you?

Library Of The Year Celebration

                    Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop adderess attendees at LOTY.

Dr. Jamie Self, Development Director of the JPL Foundation, gives us coverage of the event that honored JPL recently, "The JPL Foundation hosted a Library of the Year (LOTY) celebration the evening of November 9, 2017, in the Main Library’s Jax Makerspace.  It was an opportunity for the City to recognize and celebrate the 2017 Library of the Year Award made to JPL by the Florida Library Association.  JPL won the award out of 800+ libraries that were considered.

"JPL Foundation Chairman Emeritus Betsy Lovett (left) kicked off the program with a toast to the LOTY award. In perfect form, Mrs. Lovett raised a two-foot tall champagne flute as a symbolic gesture of 'Cheers!' – a signature greeting she loves to utter. (Mrs. Lovett may be better known for her donation to install the Betsy Lovett Courtyard in the heart of the Main Library.)

"Following Mrs. Lovett was Kevin Hyde, Chairman of the JPL Foundation, Dr. Charles Moreland, representing the Mayor’s Office, and Jennifer Giltrop, Interim Library Director, all explaining a piece of what the LOTY award means for Jacksonville and the library.

"The event was well attended – donors, friends, board members, staff and library lovers came together to share in the recognition. The library staff hosted several program stations to explain many of the less well known program opportunities for education and technology success. The Center for Adult Learning showcased Career Online High School (COHS), and even had the latest COHS valedictorian, Dawt Si, to share her personal success with the audience. Library Enhanced Access Program (LEAP), Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math (STEAM) programs, and several Makerspace opportunities were also showcased.

"The event was a fundraiser for the JPL Foundation. Over $30,000 was raised through ticket sales, sponsorships, naming opportunities and an auction during the celebration. Auctioneer Bradley Bean sold a variety of packages, COHS scholarships, and art work to the attendees.

“On behalf of the JPL Foundation Board of Directors and Foundation staff, thank you to all who attended, helped or participated in the Library of the Year Celebration!”

THANKS TO YOU, JAMIE, AND TO THE JPL FOUNDATION FOR ALL YOU DO FOR US!  THIS WAS A BEAUTIFUL EVENT FROM START TO FINISH.AND WE KNOW YOU AND ZOE WORKED HARD TO MAKE IT SUPERB.

Library Board Recognizes Employee Of The Quarter & Leadership Award Winners

The Jacksonville Public Library Board of Trustees recognized the following outstanding employees at their November 9, 2017 meeting.  Winners, if pictured, are flanked by Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop and Library Board Chair Ronnie King:

Main's Tamethia Billings was nominated by POP Librarian II Mia Clark for a Model the Way Award and subsequently won the Employee of the Quarter Award for the last quarter of 2017 (July-September).  Mia hailed Tamethia as "an employee who is aware that a smile is the best accessory, and shares it with customers and staff alike. She is encouraging, understanding, and supportive, treating each customer and staff member with respect. She also shows strong leadership skills when her supervisor is away from the department, often acting on issues, answering questions in a constructive and positive way.  Tammy has received several compliments from customers through Counting Opinions. One customer wrote 'Received excellent customer service from Tammy when I got my new library card.'"   

Nominated by Deputy Director Mark Merritt, Michael Sullivan received the Model the Way Award.  Mark said, "On August 8, 2017, Michael was thrust into the position of Assistant Director for Facilities Management and Planning. Michael calmly took stock of his new responsibilities. Once he was in place he faced the immediate issue of the remodeling of Brentwood Library. Michael ensured that an up-to-date and accurate project plan was put in place. Then, working with branch and Facilities staff, he overcame several issues as this project continued into September. In early September, along came Hurricane Irma Michael was now working daily at the EOC, communicating the progress of the storm and working with JPL staff to get ready. Once the storm hit, Michael worked with other senior staff to deploy JPL staff to POD training and to several PODs as requested by the City. This was the first time in our history that PODs were deployed, so Michael broke new ground here! Michael was front and center in the post Hurricane Irma building assessments and spent considerable time visiting branches to check for issues, as well as working with Public Works and Public Buildings to ensure they knew what the library needed in order to function. Michael worked seamlessly with the in-place facilities staff and they responded to Michael’s leadership by doing everything they could to support the Department as well as JPL."

Model the Way/Carolyn Williams Team Award went to Amanda Whaley (pictured 2nd from left beside Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop, then: Stephanie Boilard, James "Jay" Brasfield, Amanda Whaley, Anthony Villareal, Corey Scott, Joanna Nigrelli, and Stephanie Boilard.  Also awarded but not present: Nancy Swaine, Greg Royce, Sara Radovic, Don Carpenter, Nancy Swaine and Gary Ammons. Main's POP Librarian III Kathleen Brunner said, "Saturday, August 29, 2017, is a day that will live in infamy at Main. The gate count count was 2,625 for that day when Main's average for a Saturday is around 1.600. The gate count was mostly due to the high number of people who came hoping to get eclipse glasses. Main's eclipse program was one of the last  scheduled in the system and we had 185 sets to give away. We had to design a system of distribution that was fair as to who could participate in the program and be eligible to receive the glasses. So our staff worked for hours before, setting up stations all around the edge of the Makerspace to direct people who wanted to participate. We saw a need and took initiative to solve a problem before it happened. Throughout the day, we talked to customers, listened to their concerns, and tried to make waiting a little easier. We passed out library card applications, and after verifying the info on the ID’s, we brought the ID’s and applications to CIRC employees, who then processed them. Then staff brought the new library cards back to the customers.  At the end of the event, several customers thanked us for the efficient manner in which the event was handled and told us that we had done a great job."

SS's Crystal Kadkhodaie (not pictured) was nominated by Teen Librarian II Kevin Douglas, who says, "Crystal consistently puts forth a great deal of effort and determination in regards to her story time programs. Her efforts have not only produced noteworthy programs, they have earned her the praise of many parents whose children attend story time. For example, on August 8, San Marco Branch received a customer comment praising Crystal for the positive influence on her daughter at story time. Modeling the Way for Crystal is providing outstanding customer service."

AYL Manager Kristi Dorney, who nominated Kimberly Bennett  for a Model the Way Award said, "Kim stepped up to cover the summer teen learning program after our teen associate quit. As Kim had only seen Harry Potter movies, she  read the entire series of books before summer. Kim created many props for the Dumbledor’s Army program series. She created 'potion' bottles, Dolores Umbridge’s cate plates, a Dementor and a Monster Book of Monsters. She changed the week 3 craft from flying keys to Monster Book of Monsters. She brought in snacks each week and for the final program, she made Harry Potter food (troll boogies, cockroach clusters, cauldron cakes, etc.) She took a good program and made it great. Each week, participants eagerly awaited the time to go in for the program. One child had no interest in the program until she saw Kim making wands for participants. The little girl attended all six programs. One child had never read a Harry Potter book but started reading them because of the program. Parents who observed the program have been giving Kim high praises. It has been requested that a family version of the program be presented because of this high quality program. Staff has also been impressed by all the props and activities Kim created and/or contributed to the program." 

KR's Margo Crafton, was nominated for a Model the Way Award by KR Branch Manager Mark Hohnadel. Mark credited Margo with "greatly improving the number and quality of adult programming at KR. Adult programs are up 32% this year and average attendance increased from 5.78 last year to 6.80 this year. Margo has done a fantastic job planning quality diverse programs that provide a great experience. For example, Mandarin hosted local author Mark Woods, who talked about his new book Lassoing the Sun, creating an opportunity for customers to connect with a local author and share their experiences. Another successful program featured a community expert who presented a program on Indian spices that are used in cooking and for medical needs. Attendees learned about different spices and had a chance to taste some recipes featuring authentic Indian cuisine.

Laura Minor (not pictured), who works in Special Collections, was nominated by former Librarian I Martha Smith, said, "The Special Collections Department received a bust created by local artist Augusta Savage. The piece (title unknown) had been at Graham Branch for several years when it was decided that it would be relocated to Special Collections and displayed as the work of art it is. Since the Cummer has works by Augusta Savage, Laura worked with their current and former staff to determine the best way to display the piece. She worked with two contractors recommended by the Cummer on the construction of the display box, as well as the installation.This included calling back the installer three days before the unveiling when she noticed a shadow caused by fingerprints inside the case. Laura also worked with CR&M on the wording of accompanying signage and with the Conference Center and Facilities on set up. There were numerous details and moving parts to coordinate that entailed working with other people inside and outside JPL to complete arrangements for the unveiling ceremony. Laura’s attention to detail and perseverance resulted in a beautiful and fitting display for a grand unveiling of this important Savage sculpture." 

AR's Becky Hatfield was nominated by Library Associate Lauren Lazar, for being "one of the most supportive and uplifting staff members at Regency Square Branch.  She develops relationships with all the kids, principals and teachers she talks to--inside the library and in outreaches. Becky thrives on creativity and teamwork, suggesting little things to do to bring the branch together, such as a candy making team building day at Sweet-Pete’s, Karaoke nights and Escape Rooms. She is constantly praising and telling those around her how good they are doing at their jobs, both in public and private and how much she appreciates them. Becky also talks about things we can do in the future to make the library a better place. For the kids, she wants to showcase their work so they feel a sense of ownership in coming to the library and are proud of what they’ve done. Becky is one of the best people you could work for and with. "

Meet Our JPL Library Board Of Trustees & DCPS' Board Rep

(L/R): Library Board Trustee and JPL Foundation Liaison Sybil Ansbacher; Ex-Officio member and DCPS' representative to the Board Tia Leathers; she is also Director, Duval County Parental and Community Involvement; Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop, Staff Liaison to the Board; Trustee Charlie Kleeman; Board Chair Ronnie King; Trustee Guy Anderson; our newest Trustee Carlo Fassi, confirmed by City Council, October 10, 2017; Trustee Marc Hardesty; Vice Chair Tim Anderson; and Trustee Jill Dame.  Not pictured:  Board Secretary Mario Payne, Trustees Gerald Reid and Jackie Perry, and Ex-Officio members Tommy Hazouri and Jim Love, who serve on the City Council.

We JPL employees sincerely thank and appreciate each and every one of you for giving your valuable time to serve on the JPL Board of Library Trustees, its committees, make JPL policy, attend the many functions you do on JPL's behalf and advocate for the library.   

Library Board Honors Former Chair Dr. Brenda Simmons-Hutchins

(L/R): Chair King, Interim Director Giltrop, Mr. Hutchins, Dr. Simmons-Hutchins and her mother and father

JPL Board Chair Ronnie King (L) and Interim Director Jennifer Giltrop are pictured with Dr. Brenda Simmons-Hutchins (yellow blouse) as the Library Board of Trustees honored her at their meeting, November 9, 2017. Dr. Simmons-Hutchins served as the Library Board's first African-American Board Chair and Chair King hailed her advocacy for JPL with state legislators, City Council members and our community.  The "READ" poster, seen above, with her picture will be placed in the Main Library. She thanked everyone and said she hopes the poster will inspire people to pick up a book and read.

As Dr. Simmons-Hutchins retires from the Board, Chair King dedicated a copy of Zora Neal Thurston's (one of her favorite authors) book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, with an inscription inside the book honoring her service. The book will be placed in the Main Library.

Veterans Honored At Mandarin Branch

November 09, 2017, Mandarin Branch Library celebrated our Veterans with an activity ,“We Salute You: Thank you for your service." Sargent Julio Quiñonez, a representative from the Wounded Warrior Program, read a story to 22 kids and caregivers, and they were engaged as Sgt. Quiñonez shared his experiences about war and coming home. Later the kids prepared thank you cards and gave them to Sgt. Quiñonez to take back to the soldiers.  

THANK YOU, Isabel Moreno-Santiago, for honoring our heroes with this program.

Go, Makerspace!

From a customer, November 9, 2017:  "I was born and raised in Jacksonville but moved away for college. I stayed away for an additional 15 years but I moved back to Jacksonville ten years ago. I had never been to the downtown library. I was introduced to it through Markerspace. I doubt I will ever visit another library. I have now been to every opening and look forward to attending events here. Markerspace has reminded me of why I always loved the library. Now I'm back to visiting the library to read magazines and newspapers, to check out books and audiobooks, or to just go and have a quiet space to read. I forgot how much I loved to read! Not only has Markerspace given me a place to go experience amazing art and culture but it's given me back a part of me that I was missing. So thank you, Jacksonville Public Library System for the amazing work you are doing there!"

Antiques Come to Mandarin Branch

Region Manager Keli Likins congratulated Margo Crafton on a program she put together at Mandarin Branch, saying,  "Over 60 people attended KR's Antique Treasures program, November 4, 2017.  B. Langston Antiques, our community partner, sent three employees who spent three hours evaluating customers' treasures.  The item that received the highest estimate, an RCA record player (pictured here), was valued at $7,500.

"Every library program requires a display in the program and this was no exception." 

WB Offers Music Lab, Tuesdays At 4

Ryan Reid, WB YS Librarian II, would like to invite all JPL customers, ages 6 - 14 to attend Wiliwbranch's Music Lab every Tuesday at 4 pm.  He said, "We’re offering an opportunity for kids to grab their instruments--horns, guitars, percussion or vocalists--and learn basic music skills and some cool old songs." 

Here is an eye grabbing p.r. sheet you can print out, if you like:  http://4la.co/1ENJS5

Come On In; The LIVING HISTORY Exhibit IS ON!

The Jax Makerspace gallery in the Main Library is proud to be showing Living History: A Cultural Mosaic from November 1, 2017 – January 28, 2018. This newly curated exhibit features a selection of mixed media works from eight talented local artists with diverse backgrounds. Each artist and art piece was specifically chosen to express stories of migration, finding refuge, and making a home in Jacksonville through varying cultural traditions and perspectives.  

Some of what you will see:   3,360 photos

https://photos.app.goo.gl/zSZhaKGFAMpKMdO03

Video

https://youtu.be/0b8q3F8q6EE

 Programs such as expert talks, book discussions, artist demonstrations and more will be held in the Jax Makerspace to complement the exhibit. For example, native chefs will share how their cultural backgrounds influence their food.  Sohrab Fracis will read from his novel, Go Home, and in January, we will have an Alexander Hamilton Day with a Hamilton karaoke and trivia. Search the calendar of events using “Living History” to find programs and see the JPL Marketing Information Sheet for more information.

For newcomers, The Jax Makerspace gallery is a part of the 25,000 square feet on the first floor of the Main Library that has been transformed into a collaborative space for artists, musicians, hobbyists, techies, writers and more. Explore and create, meet new people and access the library’s many resources for more information about creative pursuits.

Up Next:  The Jax Makerspace gallery will feature the Picture This: A Showcase of Local Illustrated Pages exhibit from February 7, 2018 – April 24, 2018. This exhibit has been planned to coordinate with the second Jax Book Fest in March 2018. It will feature original illustration works and related programs that can range from graphic novels to maps. This will be that first show to receive submissions via a “Call to Artists”. The Jax Makerspace will also feature a second exhibit titled Collective Lands from 5 UNF Department of Art & Design students.

JPL exhibit guidelines and policy can be found on our website at https://www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/services/exhibit-policy. You can also email miaclark@coj.net for more information. 

Thanks to Mia Clark for the article and to Justin Keiser for the photos and video.

Waiting & Waiting, & Waiting On Y O U!

Sara Roberts was over at City Hall, November 2, 2017, on the mezzanine floor where COJ/JPL enrollment for health benefits is taking place. She sent this pic & good news, "Be sure to check out the offerings at City Hall. You could be the lucky winner of a huge TV provided by UF Health."

Looks like they could use your visit. 

Sharing SE's Limelight

We wanted to share an extraordinary compliment for the Southeast Branch Library with you:

Hi, Keli, I took today off work to...begin work on a report for work. I just wanted to tell you how impressed I am of both your library facility and your very kind and helpful staff. I have just spent over 5 hours in your place and loved every second of it. Hopefully I’ll meet you sometime at a NEFLIN meeting or whenever I come back to do more work! What a great library you have — you should be very proud of it and your team. Thanks again. — Brian (director of the Proctor Library at Flagler College)