November - December 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

Bad libraries build collections, good libraries build services, great libraries build communities.

R. David Lankes

HIGH TEA AND MYSTERY

We couldn’t be more excited about our first ever tea, which will be held on January 30, 2016 at 2:00 pm in the library’s community room. The upcoming fundraiser, sponsored by NH-Antelope Friends of the Library, will be used to expand the number of programs offered by our branch for kids, teens and adults and/or the Lucky Day Collection. Besides offering a tasty assortment of traditional tea sandwiches and cakes, High Tea and Mystery will feature author Catriona McPherson, who will offer Tea and Conversation. McPherson writes the Dandy Gilver series, along with stand-alone novels. She is a proud member of Sisters in Crime, and has won many awards for her fiction. By all reports, Catriona is a fun and entertaining speaker.

Tickets are $25, with a special rate for a table of 5. You can purchase your ticket by clicking the link on the right side of the blog or click here. If you have additional questions, or if you would like to volunteer for the food committee or the set up/clean up committee, you can contact us at nhantelope.friends@gmail.com.

Come meet Catriona, enjoy something a little different on a cold Saturday afternoon, and help the NH-Antelope library, all with the price of just one ticket. Invite your friends, or buy a table, and help us make this first-ever event for the Friends a big success, while having fun and building a sense of community at the library. We hope to sell out the 50 tickets we have available for this event, so sign up soon!

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

Say hello to our new Circulation Supervisor, Nancy Swingle!

“My name is Nancy Swingle, and I am the new Circulation Supervisor at North Highlands Library. I have been with SPL for 25 years, first as a Library Assistant for 10 years, and then as a Circulation Supervisor for the past 15 years.

I enjoy spending time with my 3 children and 2 grandchildren. My oldest daughter recently moved to Oregon, and I visit her often. My son and youngest daughter still live at home and are currently attending ARC. In addition to my family, I love reading, walking, and improving my skills in charcoal drawing and Chinese brush painting.

I am happy to be a part of North Highlands Library, and hope to share my love of libraries with all of you.”

Some of the program I would like to highlight this month:

• Adults can learn how to create instant photos with their phones and tablets at the Snap Shots Made Easy class on Saturday, November 14 at 2pm. We will go over the basics of mobile device cameras, to create clear looking snapshots. This class is perfect for the fast approaching holiday season!

• Children can create their own turkey decoration or Thanksgiving centerpiece in a special craft program, Make Your Own Thanksgiving Turkey, on Thursday, November 19 at 4pm. We will be using a variety of everyday recyclable materials. Teen and parent volunteers are welcome.

• Crafts, cooking, and crime (of the mystery author variety) are the themes for the library’s December programs.

• School age children and their families can create holiday ornaments and gifts with everyday recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, CDs, jigsaw puzzle pieces, beads and junk jewelry at the Winter Craft Programs on Thursdays, December 3 and 10 at 4pm.

• Adults, learn how to Make Your Own Pie Crust! on Saturday, December 5 at 2pm. Sabrina Modelle, the Tomato Tart, will teach participants how to make traditional pastry crust by hand (no food processor or fancy gear required). She'll also explore some alternatives like pretzel, nut, or cookie crusts. Everyone will come out of this class with the ability walk out the door and make their own pie at home.

• Cindy Sample, the national bestselling and award-winning author of the humorous Laurel McKay mysteries will discuss her pothole-filled path to publication. She’ll also talk about her latest release, Dying for a Donut, set in Apple Hill, at a special program on Saturday, December 12 at 2pm.

• And don’t forget the “Homework Zone,” which offers free tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm. This is a terrific resource for all the families in our community, and we hope you will spread the word to your friends and neighbors.

Please note: All Sacramento Public Library Locations will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 for Veterans Day. All libraries will close at 6pm on Wednesday, November 25 and will be closed Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27 for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Kerri Moore, Branch Supervisor

FALL BOOK SALE NETS MORE THAN $1000 FOR LIBRARY

Great turn out, lots of volunteers and an impressive selection of donated books produced our most successful quarterly sale ever. In a whirlwind two days, NH-A Friends sold tons of books and other materials, netting over $1200 that will be spent for library programs and books. I want to thank all of you who distributed coupons, about 60 coupons were redeemed over the two day sale, bringing a lot more people in the door.

We couldn’t do this without the many volunteers who donate their books, their time and their enthusiasm in support of our branch. A big shout out to Karen Sanders, Stefanie Buckmaster, Michele Weiss, Michelle Weeks, Sigrid Willgohs, Ray Oliver, Charlene Nichols, Gail Johnson, Donna Fleisher, Jane and Dorothy Stevens, Rita Deeter, Darlene Russell, Mary Cacchiolo, and Chuck Solt. And a special thank you to Debby Cooney, who manages our book sales week in and week out, in addition to the quarterly sales.

We were lucky enough to have SPL’s mascot Otterby Reading meet our pint-sized library patrons Friday afternoon and Saturday. Otterby, the Antelope High key club and Center high school teens were all of invaluable service to the success of the book sale. There were over 20 teens that assisted the NH-A Friends setting up, sorting, staffing and breaking down the sale. Phew, we could not have done it without you.

The next book sale is on the calendar for February 6-7, 2016.

NH-A FRIENDS BUDGET FOR LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT OCTOBER MEET

Besides enjoying a yummy lunch from Togo’s, Friends approved a 2016 budget, including funding for a number of programs and Lucky Day books. Based upon librarian requests, Friends authorized $2,000 to cover adult, teen and children’s programming for the first 5 months of 2016. An additional $1,500 was slated for the purchase of best sellers and popular DVDs available just to our branch patrons, which is called the “Lucky Day” program.

Among the adult programs we will be seeing, a tree pruning clinic in January, the Tea and Mystery program on January 30, and Spotlight Dance program in May. Kerri also announced that NH-Antelope library has received a grant for the In Creative Company Art Series, which will be held between February 13 and March 19. This art program is aimed at seniors, and has proven to be very popular at other branches.

A variety of paid programs and craft programs arranged by children’s librarian Denise Lee will be offered to school age children. Friends will also purchase materials and refreshments for a variety of teen program offerings arranged by Amber Clark, teen librarian.

The next Friends meeting is set for Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at 11:00 am in the library community room.

SCARF PROGRAM A HIT

Special thanks to Nancy Matlin, NH-A Friends and national color consultant, who demonstrated an amazing variety of ways to wear a scarf. This fundraiser brought in about $200, which is enough to cover the cost of a paid performer program.

We all had fun trying new ways to tie scarves in every shape and size, and we all learned how to tie a square know, use scarf clips and pins and learn from an expert the most flattering way to wear the scarves that we brought to the program. We hope, by popular demand, to bring back Nancy in 2016 for another colors program!

FROM THE FSPL PRESIDENT

Dear Friends Leaders,

Over the past few months we have all been very busy in working to support the Sacramento Public Library. I thought I would try to summarize some major highlights for you. Please contact me or your Branch Liaison if you would like more information on any particular activity.

Notable FSPL Accomplishments - Fall, 2015

September

Elected Anita Scuri as the new Vice President to serve out the remainder of retiring Vice President Pauline Grenbeaux’s term.

Developed, printed and distributed new membership campaign posters and materials for Branch affiliate groups.

October

Utilizing funds raised during the 2015 Big Day of Giving, purchased approximately 500 copies of the The Third Plate by chef and author Dan Barber for this year’s SPL One Book program. The books were distributed to all 28 Branches throughout the SPL and included an individual Branch affiliate group bookplate identifying local Friends support. Additionally, the Friends provided supplementary staff support for the One Book kick-off event at the Central Library.

Sponsored the first ever VIP After-Hours Tour of the Central Library lead by SPL staff.

Received a proclamation from the SPL Authority’s governing board recognizing our organization accomplishments as part of National Friends of the Library Week. Similar proclamations were presented by the cities of Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova to honor their local Branch affiliate groups.

Approved the 2016 slate of officers presented by the Board of Director’s Nominating Committee. Nominated the current board members whose terms expire in January of 2016 for an additional two-year term. Both actions to be voted on at the FSPL Annual Meeting in January of 2016.

Participated in and financially supported the annual SPL Staff Training Day.

Participated in the SPL’s Strategic Plan Update.

November

Held a joint meeting with Branch Affiliate Groups’ Leadership that focused on how best to address our organization’s annual IRS nonprofit financial reporting requirements, including the need to show compliance through supporting document retention. (A meeting summary with an action plan will be forwarded to you this weekend).

Co-sponsored a joint meeting with the SPL and the Foundation to explore the possibility of the three organizations creating a Sacramento Public Library Legacy Program to enable donors to match their interests and values with the needs of our community libraries. All parties agreed to an initial work plan to investigate key feasibility and implementation issues.

Sincerely,
Jeff
Jeff Rubin
President
Friends of Sacramento Public Library

BIG FALL BOOK SALE

It's time for the BIG FALL BOOK SALE!

Friday 11/6, 1pm - 5pmSaturday 11/7 10am - 3pm

We have thousands of titles, priced from $.10 to $2.00!  Huge bargains!   

What kinds of books are there?   Mystery, Sci-Fi, Romance, Children's, Young Adult, Religion, Biography, Home and Garden, Cooking, and so much more!

Kids!  On Saturday, come out and meet Otter B. Reading!

All proceeds from the book sale are used for our own fabulous library, including the Lucky Day collection!

See you this weekend!

September - October 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

Perhaps no place in any community is so totally democratic as the town library. The only entrance requirement is interest.

Lady Bird Johnson

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

Nearly 40,000 books read! This incredible number reflects the best Summer Reading Challenge in SPL history. The North Highlands-Antelope Library significantly contributed to the success rate of the summer program. Over one thousand NHI patrons signed up, with the highest numbers in the 6-12 age range. Nearly fifty percent of all customers that signed up for summer reading logged at least 5 books, completing the challenge and earning a prize book or book bag. Many customers, of all ages, logged more than 5 books; in fact, readers that logged 25 books earned the title of Library Rock Star and took home a yard sign to show off to their neighbors. North Highlands-Antelope customers read 10,341 books—we definitely have our share of reading rock stars!
Amber Clark, Teen Librarian

I am happy to announce that Jacob Greenberg has been hired as our new Circulation Supervisor and will officially begin working at the branch on September 19. I will let Jacob introduce himself in the next issue, but I can say we're very excited to have him join us! Please stop by and welcome him when you have a chance.

There's more room in the back room! If you've ever worked in our back room as a volunteer, you've noticed some pretty cramped quarters. We recently had a "mini remodel" to create more space. NH-Antelope Branch annex anyone?

Thanks to the Friends, we have a full schedule of programs for all ages during September-October!

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER ADULT AND FAMILY PROGRAMS

Learn all about library digital publications! Tuesday, 9/15 at 6:30pm: Did you know that the library offers free magazines and daily access to the Sacramento Bee online? Find out how easy they are to use in this fun class for adults.

Mystery Book Club - Saturday, 9/19 and 10/17 at 10:30 am

Fridays Unplugged! Board Game Fun for Everyone, Friday, 9/25 at 4pm: Raid our game cupboard! From classics to games you may never have heard of. All ages welcome.

Make a Butternut Squash Cake with the Tomato Tart blogger, Saturday, 10/3 at 2pm.  Autumn is all about pumpkins and other winter squash. Sabrina Modelle, The Tomato Tart will go beyond pie with a butternut squash cake with cream cheese frosting. She will make a roasted squash dish and learn why never throw the seeds away. Part of the Sacramento Public Library's One Book Program.

Tie Yourself Up In Knots with Scarves-Friends Fundraiser, Saturday, 10/17 at 2pm  
Do you have drawers of scarves you don't know how to wear? Bring them to this hands-on class! Color Me Beautiful consultant Nancy Matlin will help you choose your best scarf styles, code multi-colored scarves to color seasons, and teach you the art of scarf tying. Friends will collect $5, $10, $___ at the door to fund library programs, materials, and projects. Limited seating available. Registration required.

Fridays Unplugged! Board Game Fun – Friday, 10/23, 4pm

Haunt the Library, Friday, 10/23 at 8pm  FAMILY.  What after-hours terrors await you in the library? What haunts the stacks when the doors have been shut? Come and find out as teen volunteers turn the library into a series of scares, surprises and shocks. Family-friendly from 8 to 9:30 p.m., with story times, crafts, games, candy, and tours every 15 minutes. The real frights come during the teen-only tours from 9:30 on.

PROGRAMS FOR TEENS

Teen Book Club, Friday, 9/4 at 4pm: We will be discussing Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman. Attend face-to-face or virtually (see teen librarian).

Teen Volunteer Training, Saturday, 9/5 at 9am: Get a one-hour tutorial on quick and easy ways you can help out around the library and receive community service credit.

Wreck Your Journal Teen Program, Wednesday, 9/9 at 4pm: The creative writing group will combine unique journal prompts, self-expression, and mixed media to fully engage in the artistic process.

Day of the Dead Sugar Skulls, Thursday, 10/22 at 4pm  Celebrate Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) by creating and decorating Mexican sugar skulls and other crafts.

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN

Homework Zone: Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

Read to a Dog, Wednesday, 9/23 at 3:30pm: Children ages 5 through 12 can now sign up to read a book to one of four friendly therapy-trained dogs, accompanied by their trained adult volunteers, and earn a book after seven Read to a Dog sessions. No registration required.

Hula Hoop Challenge, Thursday, 9/3 at 4pm: Learn how to hula hoop or demonstrate your advanced skills. If it is a sunny day, we will bring the hula hoop fun outdoors near the community room. Teen and parent volunteers are welcome. 

Lego Challenge, Thursday, 9/24 at 4pm: Join us for a creative and fun hour of building things with LEGOs. Parent and teen volunteers are welcome. 

Preschool Storytime will take place at 11am on Thursday, 10/1. For the remainder of October, Baby Lapsit, Toddler Time, and Preschool Storytime will be on break and will resume in November.

Lego Challenge, Thursday, 10/15 at 4pm  Join us for a creative and fun hour of building things with LEGOs. Parent and teen volunteers are welcome.
Kerri Moore, Branch Supervisor

SUMMER BOOK SALE

The summer book sale was held on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1. Thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who participated to set up, staff and break down the sale and return the Community Room to its natural state. Our intrepid volunteers this sale include: Charles Buckmaster, Stefanie Buckmaster, Lauren Buckmaster, Chuck Solt, Kelly Clark, Michele Weiss, Kathy and Andrew Long-Turner, Michelle Weeks, Karen Sanders, Charlene Nichols, Darlene Russell, Sigrid Willgohs, Ray Oliver, Gail Johnson, Mary Caicchiolo, and Jeff Karaman.  And of course, a huge thanks to Debby Cooney, the book sale coordinator, who donates a lot of her time to our ongoing book sales, as well as the special quarterly sales.

This was the first “bin sale,” which we all thought make the tables tidier, easier to shop various genre for customers and easier overall for the Friends. The total raised, $722, is sufficient to fund all the programs proposed by staff for the final quarter of the year.

We also gained a total of 7 new members and a renewal during the book sale. So a big shout out and welcome to: Regina Androlowicz, Leslie Arriola; Mike Burkowski, Jeff Klick, Richard Pitcher, Laurie Mescher, Dorothy Stevens, and Kathryn and Jean Yadon!

The next quarterly sale is set for November 6-7. We are working on ideas to expand our customer base to increase our revenues, so stay tuned for more info on the fall sale. If you have ideas on how we can do it better or easier, drop us a line: nhantelope.friends@gmail.com.

NH-ANTELOPE FRIENDS APPROVE FUNDING FOR FALL PROGRAMS

At its July meeting, NH-Antelope Friends approved a number of new programs for the library for the September-December time frame pledging about $700 for children, teen and adult programs. We have some exciting programs for fall, including a session on taking good photos, and a visit from Cindy Sample, author of Laurel McKay Dying for Mysteries.  

For the kids, we can look forward to Puppet Art Theater, Hansel and Gretel, Nature’s Critters and holiday crafting programs. This will be a repeat performance for Nature’s Critters, which was the most popular Friends-sponsored program of the season, with 50 children and 26 adults in attendance on July 2. Nature’s Critters is scheduled again for November 5, and they will bring smaller mammals such as rabbits and chinchillas, which are better adapted to cooler weather.

For the teens, Manga programs, “Wreck your Journal,” and Haunt the Library are all funded by the Friends.

One item that will be discussed at the October meeting is holding some type of fundraiser to increase our revenues sufficient to fund all programs and Lucky Day. One idea that gained some traction at the July meeting was “50 Shades of Chocolate,” during January or February so if you have ideas, suggestions or would like to participate in our brainstorming, nhantelope.friends@gmail.com.

Our next scheduled meeting is Wednesday, October 21, so mark your calendar. We will return to our 11 am meeting and potluck lunch.  We will also consider our funding options for the Lucky Day collection (recently released titles and DVDs that are available only to patrons of the NH-Antelope library. If you find the best seller you were looking for over by the librarian’s desk, it’s your Lucky Day.)

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR FRIENDS - RAY OLIVER

North Highlands-Antelope Friends and long-time library volunteer Ray Oliver has another notable achievement, as a member of the Sacramento County Historical Society. Ray, a former McClellan historian and museum curator and co-author of a book on McClellan, will lead a bus tour of McClellan AFB, describing the base’s history and show a rarely seen movie made in 1987 as part of the installation’s 50th anniversary. Oliver will discuss how the base got its name, how it rapidly progressed from a few hundred workers to one of the biggest employers in this area, and the work of storing and transporting millions of tons of aircraft, equipment and supplies all over the world. This exciting tour will also include a stop at the Aerospace Museum. Join Ray Oliver on this fascinating look back at a major source of pride for the north county.

The date of the tour is Friday, September 25, 9 am - 5 pm. The cost is $55 inclusive of lunch, gratuity and admissions ($50 if reservations made before September 1).

This sounds like a fun and informative tour, so for further information or to make a reservation, visit: www.sachistoricalsociety.org. 

FROM THE FSPL PRESIDENT

The Friends have finished our initial strategic planning process.  A summary of upcoming priorities and programs will be sent to you under separate cover.  In addition, a detailed implementation plan will be developed and presented to the Board for use throughout the organization.

At the request of several Branch Friends affiliates, the SPL, the Sacramento Public Library Foundation and the Friends are meeting to explore fundraising opportunities for our library system through legacy giving. Contributions by will, trust, naming a charity on a beneficiary form, life-income arrangements, and endowment gifts all represent forms of legacy giving. The initial meetings are primarily to help the SPL and its nonprofit partners gain a working knowledge of these processes.  As we learn more, we will share this information with you.

At the July 14, 2015 meeting, the Board of Directors, we elected Dianne Dobbs to the Board of Directors.

Jeff Rubin, FSPL President

July - August 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

“In a good bookroom you feel in some mysterious way that you are absorbing the wisdom contained in all the books through your skin, without even opening them.” 

Mark Twain

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

Color Me Beautiful Fundraiser a Success!

On Saturday, June 6, Color Me Beautiful consultant Nancy Matlin spoke to a group of 17 women about how to use color to bring out their best selves. Nancy waived her usual fee and instead used this event to raise funds for the NH-Antelope Friends. Thank you to everyone involved for your generous donations, totaling $144!

Welcome Our New Teen Librarian

Greetings! I am Amber Clark, the new Teen Librarian at North Highlands Antelope Library. Recently, I moved from Oklahoma City to the Sacramento area, and I am happy to be settling into the library and the community. I look forward to the continued success of Anime Club and Manga Mania, and I plan to refresh the Teen Advisory Board; begin new teen programs, such as Journal Junkies and a teen book club; and start a teen volunteer program that focuses on community engagement and leadership. It is great to be a part of the Sacramento Public Library System; everyone is friendly and eager to help. I look forward to meeting you.

Summer Reading Challenge Going Strong

NH-Antelope patrons have risen to the challenge to fight the “summer slide,” that happens when students who don’t read during the summer lose up two months of the reading skills from the previous school year. In the first 3 weeks of the program, 580 patrons have signed up and 133 have finished (a completion rate of 22.9%), reading a total of 1988 books so far. Sign up today if you haven’t already, and remember that summer reading is for all ages! Below are program highlights for the remainder of the summer:

Programs for Adults

Saturday, July 11, 2pm: Let’s Dance! Instructors from Spotlight Dance will teach the electric slide and the Cuban shuffle.

Tuesday, July 14, 6:30pm: Internet Radio Made Easy- Learn how to access basic internet streaming radio using services such as Spotify, Songza, and Pandora.

Saturday, August 8, 2pm: Aloha, Hawaii! With the Ohana Dance Group.

Programs for Teens

Wednesday, July 22, 3pm: Spiral Notebook Making

Wednesday, July 29, 3pm: Felt Creatures!

Tuesday, August 4, 4pm: Harmony Henna

Programs for School Age Children, Thursdays at 4pm

July 2: Nature’s Critters

July 9: Mobile Sound Lab

July 16: Didgeridoo Down Under

July 23: Summer Reading Party and Book Swap

July 30: Make Your Own Musical Instruments

August 6: Felix Dance and Drum Company

Kerri Moore, Branch Supervisor

SUMMER BOOK SALE ON THE HORIZON

NH-Antelope Friends will hold its next book sale on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1. This will be a “bin sale,” which will feature great prices on books that have been stored in our red bins. There will be bargains galore!

We are beginning to sign up volunteers to work this sale. There are 4 possible shifts, but come and work when you can. Set up will be Friday, July 31 from 9:30 am- 1:00. The second shift is Friday, 1 pm to 6 pm, which is primarily sales. The Saturday, August 1 shifts are 10:00 am until 2:00 and second shift, which is 2:00 until the library closes or we are packed up, whichever comes first. If you only have an hour to spare, come and work between 3:00 and 4:00 on Saturday afternoon, while we restock the bins with any books left over.

And don’t forget to donate your gently used books and other media materials. You can drop off donations at the desk any time the library is open.

Volunteering is fun and profitable. Not only are our volunteers friendly, fun and helpful, but each volunteer gets a book sale reward, so sign up today. You may contact our book sale chairman Debby Cooney at debbycooney@gmail.com.

FRIENDS TIPTOEING INTO DIGITAL AGE

Thanks to our volunteers Jerry and Nancy Matlin, NH-A Friends can now offer books on Amazon! The Book Den and other branches have found this to be a very exciting way to increase sales and improve revenues. NH-Antelope Friends hope that our Amazon sales grow over time, sufficient to fund our branch’s Lucky Day collection. Without Amazon, we will likely have to stop funding Lucky Day in order to continue providing for the wonderful adult, teen and children’s programming that is offered in our branch.

We are still searching for a volunteer who would be willing to come in once a week and scan our nonfiction donations to identify those books that are likely sellers on Amazon. The FSPL corporate entity has been offering lots of advice and counsel on ways that branches can improve online book sales online, and we will offer training to volunteer(s) willing to dedicate about an hour or two per week. The volunteer can use his/her own smartphone for scanning or use the tablet that the Friends purchased.

NH-ANTELOPE FRIENDS HOLD SUMMER MEETING AND POTLUCK

Come join the NH-A Friends as we hold our annual evening meeting, for the convenience of all our working Friends. Set for Wednesday, July 29 at 6 pm, we hope to see you there. We will enjoy a supper from El Pollo Loco, and side dishes and desserts brought by individual Friends. The meeting will take place in the library’s community room.

On the agenda for the meeting: branch reports from our librarians, including proposed programming for the next quarter; finalizing the summer book sale; book sorting and Amazon sales, and increasing Friends membership at our branch.

Call or email me for further information: Karen Lindh, karen@klindh.com, 916-591-7269.

All our Friends are welcome, but please RSVP so we have enough food!

FSPL MAKES SPLASH DURING “BIG DAY OF GIVING”

In our first year participating in the Big Day of Giving, the Friends of Sacramento Public Library brought in nearly$20,000 and saw other benefits as well. If you donated to the campaign, thank you, and if not, there’s alway next year.

Some of the points I found interesting:

• Friends were #18 on the Leaderboard in Number of Gifts at 217 (out of 529 participating nonprofits). 
• Raised $17,531 from individual donors. 
• Won $2,000 of additional incentive prize money. 
• Total $19,531 that will support the One Book Sacramento Program and activities upcoming in October. 
• Benefited each Friends group within the system by arranging for bookplate recognition as underwriters through the Big Day of Giving. 
• Website: Upgraded to allow for picture rotation and videos—makes more visually appealing and attractive to readers. 
• Has increased public awareness of the Friends and also of Library mascot Otterby Reading: he visited and was photographed in 21 settings under the auspices of the Friends. 

Ellen McCaslin, Kathi Windheim and their entire team deserve a round of applause from all Friends for the success of this undertaking.

May - June 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” 

― Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

We love our volunteers!

On April 25, twenty-four volunteers were honored for their invaluable service during the past year. The reception included delicious snacks prepared by library staff, lovely decorations, a first line of famous books brain teaser and tokens of our appreciation for over 2,700 hours of hours worked since last April.

What’s happening at the Library in May?

Join us for Lost and Found: Savory Stories and Classic Recipes from Sacramento Home Cooks on Saturday, May 9 at 2pm. Maryellen Burns, author of Lost Restaurants of Sacramento and Their Recipes, is writing another book, and she needs your help. Please bring your favorite recipes and the stories behind them to share. You may see them in a book one day.

Did you know May is National Physical Fitness Month? School age children are invited to participate in a Hula Hoop Challenge, Lego Challenge-Earthquakes, and Nerf Games on consecutive Thursdays in May at 4pm, beginning May 7.

Teens can be part of Random Fandom, with different library locations celebrating a different fandom each week in May. NH-Antelope will host Anime Fandom on Wednesday, May 6 at 4pm. Couples from various fandoms will be on display boards in the library, and teens can ship their favorite couple.

Are you ready for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge?

From June 1-August 31, complete a summer reading activity sheet or read 5 books to receive your prize:

• Kids and teens – free book to keep
• Adults – reusable book bag

Keep reading all summer long. Every 5 books read earns an entry in the grand prize drawing! You could win:

• iPad mini – Grand prize (One per age group)
• $50 Barnes & Noble gift card (Branch prize, 3 per location)

The first 40,000 people to sign up will receive a complimentary ticket to a Kings game! (must be accompanied by a paying adult ticket)

Summer Reading 2014 will begin June 1 with this year’s theme Read to the Rhythm! Great programs for all ages will be offered throughout the summer. Please check the library events calendar for details. Below are some highlights for June.

Color Me Beautiful Fundraiser for North Highlands-Antelope Library Friends

Saturday, June 6, 2-3:30pm

Find out how to bring out the best in yourself with Color Me Beautiful trained consultant Nancy Matlin. Learn your full color spectrum of wearable colors. Tips for men too! Friends will collect $5, $10, $___ at the door to fund library programs, materials, and projects. Part of the Summer Reading Program. Limited seating available. Registration required.

Programs for School Age Children, Thursdays at 4pm
June 4: Alan Candee/A Musical Journey Through History
June 11: Python Ron's Reptile Kingdom
June 18: Magic Dan
June 25: The Poodlums

Rock Band and More for Teens

Wednesday, June 24 at 3pm: Teens get your game on with Wii-U, Xbox 360 Kinect, and Xbox Rock Band.

Kerri Moore, Branch Supervisor

THANKS TO OUR INTREPID VOLUNTEERS!!!

NH-Antelope Friends held our second quarterly book sale of 2015 on May 1-2. The weather was perfect, we had lots of great books, and over a dozen dedicated volunteers. Proceeds were smaller than hoped, but the sale itself ran like a well-oiled machine thanks to the work of Debby Cooney, Book Sale Chair, and all our volunteers. Set up has been streamlined so much that it only took a couple of hours to display the over 4,000 books in our collection, and a record 45 minutes to break down.

Besides Deb Cooney, thanks to: Karen Sanders, Stefanie Buckmaster, Michele Weiss, Charlene Nichols, Gayle & Ed Fishkin, Carole & George Raine, Gail Johnson, Sigrid Willgohs, Ray Oliver, Kathy Berg, Chuck Solt, B J Anthony, Michelle & Dave Weeks, Brian and Jeff.  

Our next sale is set for July 31-August 1. We are planning a “bin sale” to minimize the amount of set up and to sell existing stock to make room for new donations. Mark your calendars!

CONGRATS TO NH-ANTELOPE RESIDENT SABRINA MONTGOMERY

The first graduate of Sacramento Public Library’s Career Online High School is a NH-Antelope Library patron! Congratulations to Sabrina Montgomery, who completed the necessary coursework in seven months, earning her high school diploma and a Career Certificate for the Certified Protection Officer course. She is now in college and hopes to one day get a job with the FBI.

FRIENDS QUARTERLY MEETING SPOTLIGHTS SUMMER READING

NH-A Friends held their quarterly meeting on April 15. Kerri reported that a teen librarian to replace Justin had not yet been named, but that interviews were scheduled, so she hoped a new person could be on board by June. The theme for this year’s Summer Reading Program is “Read to the Rhythm,” and Kerri and Denise Lee, children’s librarian, have planned a spectacular menu of programs for all ages. For the children, there will be Magic Dan, Alan Candee’s Musical Journey through History, and the Fenix Dance & Drum’s Readin’, Rappin’ & Riddim”, just to name a few. The ever popular Harmony Henna will be back as one of the teen programs. And for the adults, the Color Program being offered on June 6 and the Ohana Dance Troupe will entertain and inform. The Friends funded these programs for a total of $1750, plus donated another $1500 to continue three months of Lucky Day books.  

Next meeting is July 15 in the library’s community room at 6 p.m. This is our annual dinner meeting, featuring El Pollo Loco, aimed at making sure even working Friends have an opportunity to see their Friends dollars at work.

FSPL PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Dear Friends Leaders:

Three days from now, on May 5th, the Friends will enter a new phase in fund raising to support our wonderful public library system. We will participate for the first time in the Big Day of Giving 24 hour on-line giving challenge. Information and promotional materials have been jointly developed with SPL staff; every Branch has a banner and handouts; and, Otterby Reading has been out and about announcing the importance of “Giving the Gift of Reading.” All 2,000 plus Friends members have been contacted and asked to demonstrate their generosity. And, there are three additional challenge matches initiated by Friends supporters which can double or triple a gift. 

It is now time for everyone to come together and make our community a better place by showing how much they continue to value the library. Please ask your friends, neighbors and family to give much as they can on May 5th. Every gift helps!

"A Library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert.”
Andrew Carnegie

The Board of Directors will next meet on May 12, 2015 at the Arcade Library.

Board of Directors

At the April 14, 2015 meeting, the Board of Directors:

1. Appointed Pam Whitely and Diane Sabo to take over Friends outreach coordination efforts.
2. Adopted Executive Committee recommendation for a “graphics” centered format to a two page FSPL Annual Report.
3. Approved Book Den Committee recommendation to enter into a contract for the lease of new credit card processing machines.
4. Approved Branch Liaison Committee amendment to the FSPL “Assisting Friends” Matching Grant Program.
5. Approved Branch Liaison Committee recommendation to award South Natomas Library Assisting Friends Matching Grant.

Sacramento Public Library and Joint Powers Agency Governing Board

The SPL and the JPA honored hundreds of volunteers on Thursday, April 23, 2015. The Friends provided almost one-half of the over 100,000 volunteer hours recorded!

Sincerely,

Jeff

Jeffrey L. Rubin, President
Friends of the Sacramento Public Library

March - April 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

“Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life. Libraries change lives for the better.”

Sidney Sheldon

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

Farewell from Justin 

(Justin will be the new branch supervisor of the Arcade Library, also known as the Library of Things, beginning March 21)

The vast majority of my career thus far as a professional librarian has been at North Highlands-Antelope Library, and I literally could not have been successful without the support given to me by the Friends of the North Highlands-Antelope Library. Your enthusiasm and generosity has transformed our Teen Lounge from a tiny, empty slice of the library into a heavily-used teen destination with double the space, triple the seating, and a huge, glowing welcome sign. Supplies and refreshments (including specialty items for themed programs) funded by the Friends have helped to create a popular suite of teen programming that has become the envy of the entire SPL system, and our Teen Advisory Board has blossomed into a powerful advocacy group thanks in no small part to partnership with the Friends.

You’re just about the best Friends a librarian can have. Thank you.

As for me, I plan on giving Kerri as much of my opinion as she desires to choose a replacement teen librarian, and also plan on collaborating with that librarian when s/he arrives, so you probably haven’t heard the last of me. Also, Arcade Library isn’t all that far away, and we have some seriously cool stuff like the Library of Things and the Design Spot over there. Come visit me sometime, and steal some ideas for North Highlands-Antelope Library.
 - Justin Azevedo

Staff Changes

We are very sad to see Justin go but wish him the best in his new position. We are actively recruiting a new teen librarian for the branch and hope to have someone in place soon. On a happy note, the Library Authority Board approved a change from a half-time Library Technology Assistant (LTA) position to a full-time position at NH-Antelope. Our previous LTA, Vanessa, who left us for a full-time position at the Central Library, is returning to us in a full-time capacity on March 7th!

Program Highlights for March and April

Children and Families
Celebrate Dr. Seuss and National Craft Month in March! All programs are Thursdays at 4pm.
March 12: Trap a Leprechaun!
March 19: Tape Art Animals
March 26: Cork Bunnies
In April, enjoy wild animals, balloon combat, and El día de los niños celebración!
April 2, 4pm: Wild Things, Inc.
April 22, 4pm: Balloon Combat with Balloon artist Silly Lilly
April 30, 4pm: Make Tres Hermanas Salsa

Adults
April 11, 2pm: Plan Your Summer Vacation at the Library! LTA Vanessa will show you how to use the library’s services and databases to plan your next vacation or staycation.
April 14, 21, 28 from 5:00-6:00pm (and continuing the first 3 Tuesdays in May): The Complete Financial Management Series presented by Michael D. Lee, LPL Financial Consultant

-Kerri Moore, Branch Supervisor

WINTER BOOK SALE NETS NEARLY $900

The first quarterly book sale of 2015 was held on February 6-7, and took in about $900 in proceeds. This was the second sale using the new quarterly format, and volunteers agree that it is far easier to manage than the old system. This was the first time that our Friends could accept credit cards during the sale, and we think this is going to provide a boost in future sales!

A giant thanks to the wonderful volunteers that help make our book sales possible: Stefanie Buckmaster, Deb Cooney, Karen Sanders, Doris Vermillion, Carole and George Raine, Gayle and Ed Fishkin, Michele Weiss, Michelle Weeks, Sigrid Willgohs, Kathy Long-Turner, Charlyn Nichols, Mary Caicchiolo, Pam Farrell-Webb, Jeff Karamen, Kathy Berg and Gail Johnson. And special thanks to our intrepid library staff, who assist us countless times during the sale.

Our spring book sale will take place May 1-2. Mark your calendars now! We will be starting the volunteer process in about three weeks.

HELP WANTED

As sales of used books declines, the NH-Antelope Friends of SacPubLib continues to examine incremental efforts that can add to the bottom line. While we already have been forced to cut back on the donation to fund Lucky Day, we are hoping to maintain current funding for all the wonderful programs that our talented library staff is arranging for children, teens and adults.

We are currently exploring the idea of selling high value nonfiction titles on Amazon or E-bay. This undertaking requires additional volunteer resources, however.

First, we are looking for a volunteer who would be willing to spend an hour or two once a week scanning nonfiction books to determine current market value. The Friends have purchased a small tablet computer, and along with the Amazon app, this will allow a volunteer to scan weekly donations of nonfiction books. No heavy lifting of boxes is involved, and the process can be done seated or standing.

Second, we hope to secure a volunteer that would be willing to list on our Amazon site more valuable books, then check once a day or every other day when there is a purchaser. If a book is purchased, the Amazon volunteer would ship the book, using the supplies provided by the Friends. Some level of computer literacy would be required for this job.

Training will be provided for these positions.

Or, if you prefer a more traditional book sorting position, NH-Antelope Friends is looking for a volunteer to sort incoming book donations of children’s books and fiction, plus fill the book rounds on either Friday or Saturday. While the time spent depends on the number of books donated, I typically spend an hour or hour and a half each week.

For more information, contact Debby Cooney at debbycooney@gmail.com or Karen Lindh at karen@klindh.com.

FRIENDS QUARTERLY MEETING COMING UP

The next meeting of the NH-Antelope Friends of Sacramento Public Library will be held Wednesday, April 15 at 11:00 a.m. in the library’s Community Room. Library staff will update us on programs planned for our branch for the summer, and we will approve funding as needed.

We may also get an update on plans of Sacramento Public Library to update several branches, including our own. We had a sneak peak at at our January meeting, and we expect that the planning process is well underway for some wonderful changes to the children and adult sections of the library.

As is customary for our group, a potluck lunch will be held during the meeting.

An email reminder will be sent prior to the meeting date. But if you are interested in what the future holds for our branch, mark your calendar now.

FSPL JOINS SACRAMENTO’S “BIG DAY OF GIVING”

For the first time, Friends of Sacramento Public Library will be joining other nonprofits in Sacramento for the Big Day of Giving. The Big Day of Giving is a 24 hour online giving challenge. On May 5, more than 550 Sacramento regional nonprofits will take part, with the goal of raising $5 million from 25,000 donors. This is a 24 hour challenge, so we are trying to get the word out now so Friends can stand ready to help boost our donation to Sacramento Public Library this year for a special reading program. 

How Can You Help?

• Be sure to LIKE the Friends of Sacramento Public Library Facebook page and share it with your friends.
• Go to givingedge.guidestar.org from April 20 through May 5. Select and visit the Friends of the Sacramento Library profile to help the Friends qualify for an incentive prize.
• Go to bigdayofgiving.org on May 5. Select the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library and make a contribution to show how your heart belongs to our public library system. 
• Encourage five of your friends, relatives or associates to donate on May 5 as well.

Stay tuned for more information as we get closer to the May date.

NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF SACRAMENTO PUBLIC LIBRARY

As we move into an early spring, Friends activities are blossoming throughout the county. Many innovative and exciting programs are being offered or sponsored by Branch affiliate Friends groups. We continue to build even closer relationships with the Sacramento Public Library and the JPA governing entity as well as local elected officials. A few numbers that highlight these efforts are worth noting:

• $307,878, provided to the Sacramento Public Library in 2014
• Over 50,000 Friends volunteer hours in library service in 2014
• 2,527 Friends members as February 1, 2015

Let’s keep up the great work!

1. Board of Directors
At the February 10, 2015 meeting, the Board of Directors:
a. Awarded North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library Assisting Friends Matching Funds
b. Approved endowment disbursal of $47,765 to the Sacramento Public Library
c. Approved continued support of the Sacramento Black Book Fair
d. Endorsed FSPL participation in the Ca. Library Assoc. legislative "Day in the District"
2. Book Den/warehouse/internet sales operations
a. Next Warehouse sale: March 7, 2015 (with Friends preview on Friday, March 6)
3. 30 Branch affiliate Friends groups
a. All Branch meeting held on March 1, 2015 at the Book Den.
i. Branches received introduction to the Book Den facility, services and resources.
ii. Results of the strategic planning survey of branch affiliates and other interested constituencies were presented (see the FSPL website http://www.saclibfriends.org/about/) to get the best picture of potential recommendations. In their comments in the survey, Branch affiliates have asked FSPL for changes and improvements in various areas. Please note that the Board of Directors will act on these recommendations and it is clear that we will need the help and input from the Branches in order to make some of the improvements.
iii. An update on the Friends involvement in the May 5 Big Day of Giving online giving challenge to raise additional funding to support the Library was provided. More information on Branch participation and recognition will be forthcoming.
iv. Library Director Rivkah Sass provided an update on SPL services including programs funded by the Friends.
b. Branches are asked to publicize comedian Paula Poundstone’s upcoming March 13th performance at the Crest Theater. Paula is the national United for Libraries (Friends) spokesperson.

Sincerely,
Jeff
Jeffrey L. Rubin, President
Friends of the Sacramento Public Library

January - February 2015

News from the North Highlands-Antelope affiliate of the Friends of Sacramento Public Library

Doctor Who: "You want weapons? We're in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room's the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!"  (from Tooth and Claw in Season 2)

NEWS FROM OUR BRANCH

Update on Children’s Area Refresh
In the March/April newsletter last year, I announced that the Library Foundation had received a bequest for $27,000 to be split between the NH-Antelope and Sylvan Oaks Branches.  I am pleased to say an architectural and space planning firm has been hired and will be meeting with library staff for a design kick-off meeting in mid-January.  We are very excited about this opportunity to create a more functional and welcoming space for our youngest patrons and their families. 

Promoting Programs for School-Age Children 

Children’s Librarian Denise Lee has noted a drop-off in attendance at our afterschool special programs.  Please let any families you may have contact with know the fun and learning opportunities available at their local library.  Craft programs as well as Chinese New Year and Black History Month celebrations will take place in January and February. Check the events calendar on the library’s website or pick up a paper calendar in the branch for more details.

Grown-Up 101 Series Offered for Teens

Teen librarian Justin Azevedo, along with professionals from the community, will be offering a 4-session program that will give teens the basic, practical information they need as brand new adults. Topics include money, clothes, job and food.  Series will take place from 4-6 pm every Tuesday in January.

And Let’s Not Forget the Adults

On Saturday, January 24 at 2 pm, the Sacramento Tree Foundation will offer a tree pruning workshop. Learn when and how to make pruning cuts, overall pruning strategies and the tools needed for pruning.

On Saturday, February 14 at 2 pm, join Sacramento natives Maryellen and Keith Burns as they trace the trends of California’s capital city through 150 years of dining out, from their book Lost Restaurants of Sacramento and Their Recipes. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.

Kerri Moore,  Branch Supervisor

Quarterly Book Sale Fast Approaching

Our next quarterly book sale is February 6-7.  We were very pleased with the success of the first sale, which significantly reduced the number of person-hours required for the sale, while at the same time reaping around $1000. 

The new rack and bin system proved to be a real time saver, as no-one was forced to lift heavy boxes of books off the floor. And permanent shelving for biographies, spiritual books and classics reduced the number of books that have to be handled. The proceeds from 2013 book sales helped pay for the new shelving system, which has already proven to be a worthwhile investment.

We are now recruiting volunteers for the next sale, and we hope that the turnout matches our Halloween sale. With about dozen volunteers, the book sale was organized in record time, about 3 hours. An email will be going out asking Friends to donate a little time and elbow grease, and I hope you will consider helping out a shift or two.

The benefit to the library is significant, with most of the revenues from our ongoing and quarterly book sales used to fund the wonderful programs that our librarians put together. The NH-Antelope Friends expect to cover about $5,000 worth of programming for children, teens and adults in our library community in 2015. With the exception of some funding from the Sacramento Public Library Foundation for special programs, nearly all the programs offered at our branch are paid for by the Friends.  See you at the sale!

NH-Antelope Friends to Meet

The NH-A Friends will hold their first quarterly meeting of 2015 on Wednesday, January 21 at 11:00 a.m. in the library’s Community Room. The agenda will include discussion of recommendations to improve the quality and profitability of our book sales, adoption of funding for library programs for summer 2015, approval of a 2015 budget, and election of new officers.

After library programs are fully funded, any additional revenues will be used to continue the Lucky Day collection, which furnishes our patrons with the ability to check out a recent best seller or DVD from the Lucky Day shelf. These books cannot be requested by patrons in other branches, so this is a unique gift to the North Highlands-Antelope community from our Friends of the Library.

Come by and help the NH-A Friends determine priorities for the year, and join us for lunch. Sandwiches will be provided, so bring a side dish and enjoy a fun potluck with your Friends.

Book Den Bag Sale

If you love a good bargain, don’t miss the Book Den bag sale, January 9, 10 and 11, where cost is only $6.00 a bag. Children’s books are not included, and no member discounts apply.  The Book Den is located at 8250 Belvedere Ave., Suite E, Sacramento.

FSPL Presidential Update No. 11

Dear Friends Leaders:

I hope everyone is enjoying this Holiday Season.  A recap of Friends’ activities in December is presented below.  The Board of Directors will meet on January 13, 2015 at the Southgate Library.  Our Annual Meeting will take place on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at the Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library from 1-3 PM.

1. Board of Directors

a. Authorized the President to sign a lease extension for the Belvedere warehouse negotiated and approved by the Executive Committee.  

b. Supported negotiation by the Finance Committee with the CSUS Business School and Center for assistance with a business plan for the Book Den.  Authorized the President to sign such an agreement with CSUS if it is approved by the Executive Committee. 

c. Approved the Document Retention and Destruction Policy developed by the Finance Committee.

d. Submitted documentation for participation in the annual Big Day of Giving on May 5, 2015. 

2. 30 Branch affiliate Friends groups

a. The majority of the Branch Friends’ Treasurers have received an orientation to the new End of Year Reporting Forms from FSPL Treasurer Margaret Clausen.  If your Treasurer (or another Board Officer) has not yet received this training for your Branch please contact Margaret immediately at margaretmclausen@gmail.com.

b. The response to the Branch Support and Communication Survey has been slow to date.  If you are having any issues in completing your survey please contact your Branch Liaison for assistance.  My thanks if you have completed and submitted your survey.

3. Sacramento Public Library and Joint Powers Agency Governing Board

a. The SPL has created a library for the Sacramento County Youth Detention Facility thanks to the support of the Friends. 

Sincerely,

Jeffrey L. Rubin, President

Friends of the Sacramento Public Library