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On the January Library page: Volunteers keep library running smoothly; Library Briefs; Book Review
12/29/2015 9:37:54 AM
Volunteers keep library running smoothly
By Tammy Kimberley
Splash Staff Writer
Have you ever wondered how the Liberty Lake Municipal Library staff keeps the shelves stocked with books in their appropriate places? Or how they find time to decorate for the holidays or prepare activities for the children's department?
The simple answer is that they don't do it alone. The work of volunteers is critical to the running of the library, said Adult Services Librarian Shardè Mills.
"We have a smaller library staff and really depend on the volunteers to help us maintain the library," Mills said. "We go through so many books on a daily basis, the time and energy that goes into putting them back on the shelves is considerable. We depend on our volunteers to keep us running smoothly."
The library currently has about 10 regular volunteers who help repair broken items and assist with projects in addition to shelving books. Some know every book in the children's department and help keep it clean and organized, which Mills said can be quite an endeavor. Many of the volunteers are committed to coming in weekly and providing special help when big events arise.
The Splash recently caught up with three library volunteers to ask three questions about why volunteering is rewarding… and how more help is always needed.
Kristie Garner, 68, volunteering since 2009
Why did you decide to volunteer at the library?
I love children. I had worked in the CV district as a teacher's aide for kids with special needs, from preschool all the way through age 21. On the day that the library was moving to its current location, I went down and said I wanted to help. They needed the shelves cleaned off, so I spent eight hours for five days cleaning them. I physically helped them put together the children's section, and that's where I've been ever since.
What tasks are you responsible for?
I'm old but I'm strong and limber. I decorate for the holidays with another volunteer. I also prepare projects for the kids to do. If they decide to add more bins in the children's section, I do it. If they don't have projects for me, then my job in my mind is to try to get my hands on every solitary book every week.
What do you appreciate most about the library?
The staff tries so hard to get into the new century and technology aspect. They brought in tablets for children in our section. I've always liked the library, and I just love being around the children.
Cindy Jonz, 69, volunteering since 2011
Why did you decide to volunteer at the library?
I am a retired school teacher-I taught seventh grade English for 32 years-so books and reading will always be important to me. I thought about what I wanted to do, besides spend time with my grandkids, and how I wanted to give of my time to the community.
What tasks are you responsible for?
A lot of everything. When I started, it was mainly shelving books. I also found that I could help parents or middle-school children find books of interest, because of my teaching field. I can also check in books. Because Liberty Lake is part of larger consortium, there are people who put holds on books in our system - we have to check those in and make sure they get to the right library. I help prepare for parties or special events - whatever is coming up.
What do you appreciate most about the library?
I've been impressed from day one with the staff. All of the staff are so well-trained on the use of the computers, very knowledgeable and friendly. They are wonderful people, very community-oriented.
Madison Flint, 16, volunteering since 2013
Why did you decide to volunteer at the library?
As part of Central Valley High School requirements, students have to volunteer for community service hours. I was looking for a local place to serve. I volunteered in libraries in elementary and middle school so I thought it would be a good fit for me.
What tasks are you responsible for?
I shelve books or help patrons find books they're looking for. I can also pull holds. If they come up to me and ask to find a book on any topic, I can direct them to where they should look for it. I can pretty much find anything there.
What do you appreciate most about the library?
I appreciate the environment, and I like to help other people. Also, the staff is great. You don't have to commit crazy amounts of time-even a little bit helps. They can always use help shelving books, plus it's really fun.
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Library Briefs
Reading Program starts Jan. 12
The library's Winter Reading Program begins Jan. 12 and runs through Feb. 27.
Open to readers of all ages, one completed book equals one entry slip eligible for prizes. More information will be available at the library the beginning of January.
Calling all tweens and teens
Interested in joining a tween or teen book club? Or are you in need of volunteer hours and willing to plan fun events for teens in the community?
Coming up in February…
The library is looking forward to a fabulous series of events in February, including:
• Valentine's Day card-making activity, Feb. 4 at 4 p.m. Kids ages five and up are invited to create personalized cards.
• Book exchange, Feb. 11, 4 to 6 p.m. In celebration of International Give a Book Day, the library is hosting an exchange of newer, undamaged books.
• Movie night featuring "Hotel Transylvania 2" (PG), Feb. 25 at 6 p.m.
• • •
Book Review: Author helps kids explore scientific method
By Jandy Humble
Liberty Lake Municipal Library
In Mara Rockcliff's "Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery that Baffled All of France," Ben Franklin journeys to France to seek their help for the American Revolution. While there, he finds France abuzz by the work of Dr. Mesmer and his magic wand. Dr. Mesmer is able to cure everyone's ailments. How does he do it? Will Ben Franklin be able to figure it out?
Through a captivating plot and brilliant illustrations by Iacopo Bruno that draw you in, Rockcliff teaches children about history, science and the powers of the human mind. Geared toward those in grades 2-5, readers are sure to be as mesmerized as the characters in Rockcliff 's book. This is a new book at the library, so come check it out!
Jandy Humble is youth services librarian at Liberty Lake Municipal Library.
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