Volume 3 Volume

Marion County Public Library System’s Quarterly Newsmagazine

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Issue Issue 1 1 | words 2011 Spring

Gives a ‘Hoot’ in Ocala

of the ocala public library Telling Your • Events Snapshot: • Book Review

A Day in The Life of Library Story Marion County’s Libraries part II • Profile words Marion County Public Library’s Quarterly Newsmagazine Volume 3 | Issue 1 | Spring 2011

Marion County Public Library 2720 East Silver Springs Boulevard aword Ocala, Florida 34470 from the Director 352-368-4507 By Julie Sieg • Director, Marion e-mail: [email protected] County Public Library System web site: http://library.marioncountyfl.org Library Director: Julie Sieg

newsmagazine staff: ow do I love thee? Let me count the ways… Publisher: Friends of The In this issue of WORDS, you will read about the first Snapshot: Ocala Public Library A Day in the Life of the Marion County Public Library System Editor: Karen Jensen eventH which occurred on January 29. Community Liaison Snapshot was a state-wide project designed to collect information, including Writers: Michelle Risko, photos, illustrating the many and varied ways in which our public libraries are Ken Tipper, used. It also offered our patrons and the public an opportunity to tell us how Lucy Beebe Tobias they feel about their public library. Over 600 patrons willingly and joyfully Concept Team: Pat Anderson, shared their comments about the Marion County Public Library System, and Karen Costello, Domina what it means to have access to its services. Daughtrey, Michelle Risko, One of our Belleview users wrote, “On our tight budget having access to free Lee Schwartz, Susan Valle, books helps fill a need for me and my kids. Kids Programs for toddlers, tweens Nancy Young & teens provide safe learning activities & crafts. We LOVE Toddler Time!!” Photography: Joe Kays, Andrew The project coincided with February’s Love Your Library month, when we Kays , Lucy Beebe Tobias asked library users to pen their favorite reasons why they love their public Distribution: Susan Valle library. Again, the response has been overwhelming as evidenced by the heart- shaped note cards written by patrons that now adorn our library windows. A sampling of comments includes: “I have loved them all my life. I started onthecover: reading when I was very young and am now 81,” “I love my library because Carl Hiaasen is coming to Ocala. they are my best friends,” “It’s free,” “It’s Awesome,” “I love to learn,” “I can See Calendar Programs read for free” (this was repeated over and over again) and “I love to read.” Spotlight for details In these challenging economic times, the outpouring of appreciation and Photo by Tim Chapman support for our public libraries is a reminder to all of us who work here that what we do does make a difference, in the lives of children and adults in Mar- ion County, across Florida and this nation.

Did You Did you know that The Marion County Public Library System is a the library carries department of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and is funded by them through Know? general funds. The WORDS newsmagazine is funded federal tax forms? by the Friends of the Ocala Public Library.

2 words Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org snapsh T: A day in the life of Marion County’s Public Libraries By Michelle Risko

n January 29th, the Marion County Public Library System posed Ofor Snapshot: A Day in the Life of Marion County’s Public Libraries. Created by the American Library As- sociation, Snapshot: A Day in the Life of Libraries is part of a nationwide program designed to showcase what goes on in dynamic, modern libraries. Why is it important to publicize what really happens in libraries these days? According to the Florida Library As- sociation, which organized Florida’s participation in the Snapshot project, nearly 89 million people visit Florida’s Vanguard High School senior Andrew public libraries every year, compared Kays coordinated Marion County’s to approximately 67 million people Public Library System’s Snapshot Day who visit Florida’s famous theme parks. Public libraries are utilized now more than ever before and the Snap- My library is like my shot project was a way to showcase the importance of public libraries. best friend! What if a comparable list of statistics ~ An avid reader from Belleview could be compiled for libraries across Florida for one day? How many pa- teers, together with other statistics, has Day in the Life of Marion County’s trons checked out books? How many been provided to the Florida Library Public Libraries will serve as Andrew individuals used library computers? Association. Kays’ final project in achieving Eagle How many programs were attended by From some of the 550 surveys Scout status. “As an Eagle Scout proj- children…by teens… by adults? collected, it’s clear that Marion ect, it was a fantastic opportunity to Vanguard High School senior An- County’s portion of those 89 million see what happens at the library; all the drew Kays coordinated Marion Coun- Florida library users do love their ways it’s utilized by the community, ty’s Public Library System’s Snapshot libraries. “I’m proud to show visitors and how the community and sponsors Day. Kays, 17, used Facebook to re- this wonderful place,” stated one (like Clear Channel) were so willing cruit forty-two volunteers to staff five Dunnellon Public Library patron. to participate in this event,” said Kays. Marion County Public Library branch- Another avid reader in Belleview says, For the Marion County Public Library es. Volunteers spoke to library visitors “My library is like my best friend. I System, Snapshot is further evidence about Snapshot day, offered surveys am also honored by the fact that my of the needs met by libraries and of for patrons to describe their use of the granddaughter shares my love of the loss our communities would suffer library, and took photos. The informa- books. She is a regular customer.” without them. gw tion collected by Kays and his volun- The coordination of Snapshot: A

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 3 telling your

library story your Wisdom of the Past, Witness to the Present, Window to the Future library: By Lucy Beebe Tobias

eddick, a town in North- present storytimes to pre- No one ever dremd that her west Marion County, has school children. “I like First a population of approxi- the community here, the Vowj wood olso be her last. On matelyR 669. But as the home of the people I see every week, The Reddick Public Library, small num- their involvement in their Nit of aprl 14 1912 the psnjr bers have never diminished a large community,” says Linda. interest in books. Jim Stroup (be- The Reddick Public Li- Liner rms titnck struk a isburg low), the mayor of Reddick, previous brary officially opened as In the north atintik. Within library volunteer and staff member a branch of the Marion Mins for five years, straightens up the big, County Public Library on Wtr bgan poring in too her stuffed bear in the children’s room October 1, 1988. In 1993, Lower deck. With les than three at the Reddick Public Library and the library moved to its Awrs puts a book in its paws to make the current home, a building bear a reading model for kids. They that used to be the agri- Her prpeirs started too ris owt of cultural facility for the old The wtar. With onle, 1500 left on Reddick School. There are Bord ther was now over 19,000 books in Litl hope of esap. Soon the the collection, not includ- Bigst ing paperbacks. Today, the bank of four Ship the world has ever sen wod public access computers Plung too the botm of the oshin. next to the checkout coun- ter stays busy pretty much all the time. Visitors check e-mail and a classroom computer when he was stay in touch with families, update in kindergarten in 1989. His teacher their resumes, and search for jobs. A at Reddick-Collier Elementary, Miss couple comes into the library with Sharon, brought her classes regu- a bag of books, all mysteries, to re- larly to the Library programs where turn. they handled and read books, talked Just how important is reading in about fiction vs. non-fiction and -of get the message. Preschoolers, many this small community? One of Lee ten let each child check out a book. from Head Start, are regulars at sto- Fanelli, former Reddick Public Li- One day they read about the Titan- rytime. Children’s librarian, Linda brary supervisor’s favorite stories is ic. Matt’s excitement and fascination Brooke, comes from the Headquar- pictured above. It is an exact copy of could hardly be contained; he could ters-Ocala Library once a week to a writing Matthew Roland typed on not read but listened to every book, continued on page 14

4 words Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org book reviews with a Good Book! Cozy Up Reviewed By Linda Porter

Wisdom of the Past, arl is coming! Get in the mood for Carl Hiaasen’s April Witness to the Present, 16th appearance in Marion County by reading his latest Cnovel, Star Island. Cherry Pye, a twentysomething has-been, lacks the talent Window to the Future needed to restart her flagging singing career. Cherry’s life is one long series of bad choices—especially those involving illegal substances. Her manager/parents have hired an actress to appear as their daughter when Cherry is too drugged out to appear in public or is in yet another round of rehab. The hook is that Cherry doesn’t know about Ann DeLuisa, her body double, and her manipula- tive parents don’t want her to find out. When Ann is mistakenly kidnapped by Bang Abbott, a de- ranged paparazzo with unsavory plans for Cherry, she appeals for help to Skink, the homeless, former Florida governor familiar from earlier Hiaasen novels. Ann is beginning to think that what she really needs to be rescued from is her career as Cherry’s body double. Full of wickedly witty humor, Hiaasen uses his dazzling storytelling skills in Star Island to cheerfully skewer corrupt developers, aggressive paparazzi, and the absurdity of pop culture, all under the baking Florida sun. Outrageously entertaining! gw

diggingdeeper 7 Carl Hiaasen is known for his long- running and incisive column in The Miami Herald. Want to learn more about what Hiaasen thinks is important? Read his columns online by using Newsbank, a database of full-text newspaper articles available through the Library’s website at http://library.marioncountyfl.org. Learn more about Florida’s political culture by reading Buddy Mackay’s David R. Colburn, author of From Yellow Dog Democrats to 2010 book, How Florida Happened: the Red State Republicans: Florida and its Politics since 1940, Political Education of Buddy Mackay, also offers an in-depth view of recent Florida history. an insightful look at the evolution of how things work in our state.

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 5 calendar marioncountypubliclibrarysystemprogramscalendar spotlightspotlight

Give a Hoot Belleview Public Library for Hiaasen: Happy Tuesday, March 8, 5-6:30 p.m. A Meet- Birthday, Music Mash-Up! the-Author Dr. Seuss Freedom Public Library Wednesday, March 9, 2 p.m. Do we like program Mix & Mash! for youth in him here Headquarters - Ocala grades 4-12* and there? Yes, we Saturday, March 12, 12 Noon Photo by Tim Chapman Southeastern like him Guitar Hero Tournament Livestock Pavilion Auditorium everywhere! Saturday, April 16, Doors open Join in the Celebrate Poetry! at 2 p.m. and close at 2:45 p.m. fun as we Copyright © 2009 Random House, Inc. (Author will speak at 3 p.m.) Dr. Seuss properties used by permission. Come to a Poetry Party! honor the Dr. Seuss properties ™ & © 1937—2009. Dr. It’s a party and you are invited Admission: Free Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All Rights Reserved. *A child may be accompanied birthday to make merry as we celebrate by a parent or caregiver. of Theodor Seuss Geisel, one of the National Poetry Month. Share, Enjoy an afternoon with noted most beloved authors of all time. experience and enjoy the pleasures See program details under of poetry. All ages welcome. author and columnist Carl Hiaasen specific branch headings. See program details under as he speaks about his books, Headquarters – Ocala specific branch headings. Hoot, Flush, and Scat. Prior to Mr. Saturday, March 5, 10-12 noon Headquarters – Ocala Hiaasen’s talk, there will be a special Program co-sponsored by the Sunday, April 3, 2 p.m. presentation about owls from the Marion Education Association Ocala Wildlife Sanctuary. Program Marion Oaks Public Library Freedom Public Library is free but seating is limited and will Saturday, March 5, 2-3 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2 p.m. be available on a first come/first Refreshments provided by The served basis. Books will be available Friends of Marion Oaks Library Rockin’ into Kindergarten for purchase and autograph. and Voluntary Call the Headquarters - Ocala library Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) at (352) 671-8551 for more information. Is your child entering Kindergarten in September? Is your 4 year old An Evening with ready for VPK? Come to the library Carl Hiaasen and register your child for school College of Central and for a library card! Meet with a Florida, Klein Center librarian to discuss books and aids Saturday, April 16, 7 p.m. that will help your child be ready Audience: Adults It’s a MashUp! for school. Representatives from Tickets: $25, available until sold out Get Connected The Early Learning Coalition and Carl Hiaasen’s works crackle with @ Your Library the Marion County Public Schools the wit of old Florida as he takes will be on hand to register your environmental jabs at the concrete of Teen Tech Week 2011 youngster. Free giveaways! Child March 6-12 the new. Enjoy one of Florida’s rarest IDs will be done by the Masons of Teen Tech Week is a national treasures. Books will be available the 15th Masonic District in Ocala. initiative for teens, encouraging for purchase and autograph. Visit Dunnellon Public Library use of library resources to express www.friendsoftheocalalibrary.org Thursday, April 7, 5-7 p.m. their creativity. Join in on the fun! or see the Bookmarks page of See program details under specific branch headings. Belleview Public Library this issue for ticket information. Monday, April 11, 5-7 p.m.

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HEADQUARTERS-OCALA 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 352-671-8551

SPECIAL PROGRAM Meet Carl Hiaasen! Saturday, April 16 There are separate programs for youth & adults. Please see “Program Spotlight” for more information. PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES It’s a Poetry Party! A Celebration Freedom Public Library of National Poetry Month! Tuesday, April 26, 5-7 p.m. Sunday, April 3, 2 p.m. Headquarters - Ocala Share, experience, and enjoy the pleasures of Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. poetry during National Poetry Month with poet Lena Lewin and Poetry Ocala. Bring your favorite poetry and listen to others. All ears welcome! Author! Author! A Children’s See “Program Spotlight” for other library locations. Book Week Celebration Programs for Adults Available at all library facilities May 2 – 8 English Conversation* All ages welcome. Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Want to write a story with your favorite author? March 1–June 7 Now is your chance! Come to any branch of Practice your English with others in an the Marion County Public Library System and informal, fun class. Everyone is welcome. pick up a StoryStarter – written by some of the most remarkable authors of our day. Finish Earn Your GED on the GED Bus* Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11 a.m. a story and drop it off at the library. It’s just March 1–June 7 that simple. You will receive a bookmark for It’s never too late to get your GED. submitting your story and have the opportunity to have your name entered in a drawing for ESOL Class* a book. You might even be asked to present Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. your story at a future storytime! WOW! March 2–June 8 Learn English at the library. Program AARP Tax-Aides is free and open to the public. AARP Tax-Aide is the Nation’s largest *Classes are not held on school holidays. free, volunteer-run tax assistance and Co-sponsored by CTAE/ Marion County School Board. preparation service assisting low-to-middle income taxpayers with routine tax returns. Wired Wednesdays Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Call your local library for information March 2–April 20 about times and requirements. Learn about computers and databases in these classes for adults. Space is limited. Holidays and Special Days Genealogy 101: A Beginner’s Primer Easter March 2 Where Do I Start? An Overview of the U.S. Sunday, April 24 Census, Public Records, and Cyndi’s List Headquarters – Ocala closed. March 9 Help! I’m Stuck! Making Your Way through Genealogical Internet Sites Maintenance Day March 16 Genealogy CSI: How to Plan the Friday, May 6 Next Step in Your Investigation Headquarters – Ocala, Freedom, Fort March 23 Save Your Cash: Useful Non-Profit Sites McCoy, and Reddick libraries closed for March 30 How Do I Stop? Goal-Oriented Genealogy maintenance. All other library facilities open. Computers for Beginners Series: Memorial Day An Introduction to Computers Monday, May 30 April 6 I Turned on My Computer, Now What? All libraries closed. April 13 Finding It! (Intro to the Internet) April 20 Get Connected! (Intro to E-Mail)

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 7 calendar

The Monday Matinee Chill on Fridays Spectacular Sundays: Mondays, 2 p.m. Fourth Fridays, 4 p.m. Tween Time March 7–April 25 Chill at the library with a variety of fun Selected Sundays, 2 p.m. Movies for adults and teens 13+ activities. Loads of fun for grades 4- 6. Refreshments will be served. March 25 It’s Movie Time: Coraline Registration required Co-sponsored by Golden Flake March 27 Tween Chef and Moreno’s Uptown Grill April 22 Crafts for a Cause: Warm up America! Create your own menu, March 7 Bring in your scrap yarn eat the goodies, and vie March 14 and join us in knitting and for the prize of Library Iron March 21 crocheting an afghan Chef. Test your culinary March 28 for a local charity. skills but beware of the April 4 secret ingredient! April 11 Let the Games Begin! May 1 Myth Testers April 18 Do you have what it Guitar Hero Tournament takes to be a Myth Tester? April 25 Saturday, March 12, 12 noon Come and test your Friends of the Ocala Are you up for the challenge? Are skills against some cool Public Library Monthly your fingers limber? Test your GH skills mysteries of science. against others and have loads of Board Meeting fun. Registration begins at 12 noon. Down on the Farm with 4H! Third Thursdays, 1 p.m. See ‘Program Spotlight’ section for Teen Tech Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. – 12 noon March 17, April 21, and Week programs at other branch libraries. Old MacDonald had a farm – at May 22 (Annual Meeting) PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN the library! Join the barnyard fun complete with farm animals and The Friday Variety Hour All of the programs are sponsored, Fourth Fridays, 1:30 p.m. either in whole or part, by the Friends lots of activities! You’ll even sing a Fridays are fun days for adults! of the Ocala Public Library. few of your favorite songs and hear March 25 (German Scherenschnitte Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss a story or two. Gather up those Paper Cutting) Crafts and little ones and mosey on over! Demonstration, presented Saturday, March 5, 10 a.m. – Noon See Program Spotlight for other locations. By Janet Maidment Movie Time: Hoot – A April 22 Crafts for a Cause: Wacky Wednesdays Super Saturday Special Warm Up America! Selected Wednesdays, 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9, 2 p.m. Bring in your scrap yarn, Early release day amusements and join us in knitting and Based on the award-winning book for grades K - 6 crocheting an afghan by Carl Hiaasen, Hoot will be enjoyed March 9 Spring into the for a local charity. by environmentalists of all ages! Library for Crafts See “Program Spotlight” for information about Master Gardener May 4 Make & Take for Mom Carl Hiaasen’s visit to Ocala on April 16. Series: Planning for Spring Break Fun Children’s Book Week Your Summer Lawn Tuesday, March 15, 2 p.m. Celebration, May 2 - 8 Saturday, April 9, 2 p.m. Get your game on! Virtual games Finish a story started by some of Learn gardening techniques and board games – it’s all fun! today’s most fascinating writers. from the Masters! Thursday, March 17, 2 p.m. See “Program Spotlight” for details. Presented by the Marion County Master It’s St. Patrick’s Day! Wear Gardeners, Marion County Extension STORYTIMES Services/ University of Florida, IFAS your green and join us for the comical Irish Disney film, Darby“ S.U.R.F.’S UP! Programs for Teens O’Gill and the Little People.” Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m. Preschool Club March 1 – May 31 Manga-liscious! It’s Super Ultimate Reading Fun time! Saturdays, 2 p.m. Join the Children’s library staff in Teen Book Club March 26, April 2, April 23 First Tuesdays, 4 p.m. the Children’s Program Room for a Calling all 3 to 5 year olds and March 1 & April 5 couple of good books and a poem. their caregivers! Enjoy fun-filled Join us for high-energy talks about activities and games designed all things manga and anime. TerrificT hree’s Storytime to boost early reading skills. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m. March 22 – April 26 A variety of picture book stories,

flannel boards, action songs, and finger plays followed by an activity. Program is limited to 25 children accompanied by caregivers.

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Fabulous 4’s & 5’s Storytime Basic Computer Classes April 19 Get Ready for Earth Day! Tuesdays, 1:15 p.m. Wednesdays or Thursdays, 1 p.m. Make a seeded paper bookmark and use it to March 22 – April 26 Computer classes designed mark your place in your A variety of stories, finger plays, for the person with limited or favorite read or plant it flannel boards, music and rhythm no computer experience. in the garden to grow activities followed by an activity. Tickets are required and will be some wildflowers! For children and their caregivers. distributed starting at 12:30 p.m. on the day of each class. Seating PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES Family Storytime is limited to 10 participants. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Family Flix March 2 Basic Email March 22 – April 26 Selected Wednesdays, 2 p.m. March 9 Internet Searching March 9 A variety of stories, action rhymes & Printing May 4 and songs followed by an activity. March 16 Introduction to For children and their caregivers. the Computer Family Game Time Toddlin’ Two’s Storytime March 23 Mouse Play Thursdays, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. March 30 Basic Internet March 3 – April 21 March 23 – April 27 April 6 Basic Email Family fun with board A variety of stories, action rhymes April 13 Internet Searching and card games. & Printing and songs followed by an activity. Program is limited to 20 children Job Market 101 PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN accompanied by caregivers. Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Programs for children in grades K – 6 Computer classes to help and their parents & caregivers. Bouncin’ Babies Storytime with your job search. Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. Art Class: Sidewalk April 20 Job Searching March 24 – April 28 Chalk Art April 27 Creating a Resume A variety of stories, songs, rhymes, Saturday, March 12, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. and finger plays for babies 0 – 23 Master Gardener Series Draw fun stuff and get down & dirty months with a caregiver. Program is First Thursdays 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. with chalk! No Registration required. limited to 15 children accompanied Learn gardening techniques Presented by the Art Club of Belleview. Supplies provided by the Friends by caregivers. from the Masters! of Belleview Public Library. March 3 Your Florida Lawn April 7 Garden Pests and Diseases Construction Zone May 5 Citrus Gardening Saturday, March 26, 1 - 2:30 p.m. BELLEVIEW Presented by the Marion County Master Calling all budding architects and Gardeners, Marion County Extension builders! Try your hand at building Services/ University of Florida, IFAS PUBLIC LIBRARY with Legos, Lincoln Logs, and more! 13145 SE Hwy. 484, Belleview Friends of the Belleview 352-438-2500 Art Class Public Library Saturday, April 9, 1 - 2 p.m. SPECIAL PROGRAM Monthly Meeting Put on your creative hat and your Third Tuesdays, 10 a.m. imagination pants and have a great Meet Carl Hiaasen! March 15, April 19, May 17 time with the Art Club of Belleview. Saturday, April 16 New members are always welcome! Registration required. Space is limited. There are separate programs Meetings held at The Book Nook, Supplies provided by the Friends of Belleview for youth & adults. 6007 SE Earp Rd, Belleview, Fl Public Library. Please see “Program Spotlight” for more information. Children’s Book Week PROGRAMS FOR TEENS PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Celebration, May 2 - 8 Get Crafty @ Your Library! Finish a story started by some of Tuesday Movie Matinee Crafts & Fun for Teens today’s most fascinating writers. Tuesdays, 1 p.m. Tuesdays, 5 – 6:30 p.m. See Program Spotlight for details. March 1 – April 26 March 8 Teen Tech Week’s Smokey Bear and the Enjoy great movies for adults. Music Mash-Up! March 1 Make your own music Forest Rangers Saturday, May 21, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. March 8 mixes using free software March 15 and free sounds! Experience extreme forest firefighting March 22 March 22 Photo Fun! Create your equipment and learn how to March 29 own photo masterpiece prevent forest fires! Program will April 5 using free software! be held if fire conditions permit. Presented by the Florida Division of Forestry April 12 April 5 Sweets and Treats April 19 Learn to make sweet April 26 and easy treats!

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STORYTIMES Friends of the Dunnellon story with the StoryStarter written Public Library by Mo Willems and provided by Surf’s Up! It’s Super the Children’s Book Council. Ultimate Reading Fun Time! Monthly Meeting First Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m. March 1, April 5, May 3 STORYTIMES March 1 – April 26 Hang ten (minutes & toes) for New members are always welcome! Toddler Storytime Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. a couple of good books and a The Drop-In Book Club March 2 – May 11 poem. Catch the Reading Wave! Fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Enjoy a variety of books, Read the book and then join us for Toddler Story Time fingerplays, flannel boards and a discussion. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. music for ages 2-3 year olds March 23 Run by Ann Patchett March 3 – April 28 accompanied by caregivers. April 20 The Art of Racing in the Bounce, romp and read! Enjoy Rain by Garth Stein a variety of stories, fingerplays, Preschool Storytime May 18 Life Sentence by Fridays, 10:30 a.m. flannelboards and music for ages Laura Lippman March 4 – May 13 18 months – 3 years accompanied Reading is fun! Enjoy books, by caregivers. The program Master Gardener Series fingerplays, flannel boards is limited to 20 children. Third Tuesdays, 2 p.m. Learn gardening techniques and music for ages 4-5 Preschool Story Time from the Masters! accompanied by caregivers. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. March 15 Garden Pests Baby Songs and March 4 - April 29 April 19 Plants for Summer Storytime is fun time with stories, Gardening Nursery Rhymes poems, songs and crafts for Presented by the Marion County Master Fourth Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. ages 3-5 years. Gardeners, Marion County Extension March 22 & April 26 Services/ University of Florida, IFAS Songs, rhymes, books and more Baby Storytime with Music Basic Computer Classes for infants up to 12 months Second & Fourth Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Call 438-2524 for dates and times. accompanied by caregivers. March 9 & 23, April 13 & 27 Follow the bouncing baby! Stories, PROGRAMS FOR TEENS songs, rhymes, and fingerplays FOREST for babies up to 18 months Teen Gaming Afternoon Saturday, April 23, 3 p.m. accompanied by caregivers. PUBLIC LIBRARY Calling all gamers! Show off your Program is limited to 15 children. 905 S. County Road 314A, Ocklawaha xBox360 and Wii Sports skills! 352-438-2540

PROGRAMS FOR SPECIAL PROGRAM DUNNELLON CHILDREN (Ages 5-12) Meet Carl Hiaasen! PUBLIC LIBRARY Science Exploration Saturday, April 16 20351 Robinson Road, Dunnellon Second Thursdays, 4 p.m. There are separate programs 352-438-2520 March 10 & April 14 for youth & adults. Discover the wonders of Please see “Program Spotlight” SPECIAL PROGRAM science through action-packed for more information. experiments. Registration required Meet Carl Hiaasen! PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Saturday, April 16 LEGO® Creative Earn Your GED on There are separate programs Constructions the GED Bus* for youth & adults. Thursday, March 17, 2 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2 p.m. Please see “Program Spotlight” Put on your hard hat and join us March 1–June 7 for more information. in the Lego Construction Zone! It’s never too late to get your GED. *Classes are not held on school PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS holidays. Co-sponsored by CTAE/ Children’s Book Week Marion County School Board. Friday Movie Matinee First Fridays, 1 p.m. Celebration, May 2 - 8 Nine Principles to Achieve Finish a story started by some of Enjoy great movies for adults. a Florida Friendly Yard today’s most fascinating writers. March 4 Wednesday, March 9, 10:30 a.m. See Program Spotlight for details. April 1 Follow these easy steps to May 6 Stick Figure Story Writing accomplishing the Florida Wednesday, May 18, 4 p.m. yard of your dreams. Create your very own short comic Presented by Kathleen Patterson of the Florida Yards and Neighborhood Homeowner Program, UF Dept. of Environmental Horticulture, IFAS

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The Wednesday Matinee STORYTIMES Selected Wednesdays, 2 p.m. Freedom Sponsored by the Friends of Family Storytime the Forest Public Library Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. Public Library March 1- May 31* No program on 5870 SW 95th Street, Ocala March 16 March 15 352-438-2580 March 30 April 13 A variety of stories, action rhymes, April 27 music and art for all ages. SPECIAL PROGRAM May 11 Meet Carl Hiaasen! May 25 c Saturday, April 16 Fort M Coy There are separate programs Basic Computer Classes for youth & adults. Call library for information. Public Library Please see “Program Spotlight” for more 14660 NE Hwy 315, Fort McCoy information. Friends of the Forest Public 352-438-2560 Library Monthly Meeting PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES Second Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. SPECIAL PROGRAM Poetry Party! National March 9, April 13, May 11 Meet Carl Hiaasen! New members are always welcome! Poetry Month Celebration Saturday, April 16 Monday, April 20, 2 p.m. PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN There are separate programs Read, recite, write, and relish! for youth & adults. Poetry for everybody. Stories & Stuff: Please see “Program Spotlight” Children’s Book Club for more information. PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Thursdays, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Master Gardener Series March 3 - May 26* No program on Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m. March 17 The Friends of the Fort Learn gardening techniques Books, crafts, snacks and lots McCoy Public Library from the Masters! of chat… What, my friends, Monthly Meeting March 8 Garden Pests could be better than that? Second Thursdays, 10 a.m. April 12 Planting for Summer Grades K – 3. March 10, April14, May 12 and Lawns Friday Favorites: New members are always welcome! Presented by the Marion County Master Gardeners, Marion County Extension Tween Book Club PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES Services/ University of Florida, IFAS Fridays, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. March 4 - May 27 * No Fort McCoy Open House Ask Arnold! program on March 18 Time: TBA Comprehensive Like to read? Bring your favorite Come and see the new renovations Computer Assistance books to share and enjoy a at the Fort McCoy Public Library. Thursdays, 12 - 2 p.m. fun-filled afternoon! Light PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN Friendly volunteer assistance is refreshments provided. available for all your computer Grades 4-6. Preschool Storytime needs, including laptops and wireless Kids’ Club Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. access. No appointment necessary. March 2 - 30* No program on March 16 Selected Wednesdays, 2:30 - 4 p.m. Basic Computer Classes March 9 & May 4 Storytime is fun time with a variety of Thursdays, 2 p.m. Crafts, games & fun! Assorted stories, fingerplays, flannel boards, Computer classes designed for the activities and diversions music and art for 3-5 year olds. person with limited or no computer on early release days. experience. Tickets are required Preschool – grade 6. Children’s Book Week Celebration, May 2 - 8 and will be distributed starting at Children’s Book Week Finish a story started by some of 1 p.m. on the day of each class. Celebration, May 2 - 8 today’s most fascinating writers. Seating is limited to 10 participants. Finish a story started by some of See Program Spotlight for details. March 24, April 21 Basics for Beginners

today’s most fascinating writers. March 3, March 31, See Program Spotlight for details. April 29 How to Search March 10, April 7, May 5 Sign up for Email March 17, April 14, May 12 Using Email

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 11 Did You Did you know that the library’s children’s Know? departments have suggested book lists for every grade, including preschool. images calendar Friends of Freedom Public Children’s Book Week Library Monthly Meeting Marion Oaks Celebration, May 2 - 8 Third Mondays, 10 a.m. Public Library Finish a story started by some of March 21, April 18, May 16 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala today’s most fascinating writers. New members are always welcome! 352-438-2570 See Program Spotlight for details.

PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH SPECIAL PROGRAM Plugged and Unplugged! Meet Carl Hiaasen! Reddick Early Release Relief for Saturday, April 16 There are separate programs Public Library Students at Loose Ends 15150 NW Gainesville Rd., Reddick for youth & adults. Wednesdays at 2 pm. 352-438-2566 Please see “Program Spotlight” March 9 Teen Tech Week: for more information. Mix & Mash! SPECIAL PROGRAM March 16 Spring Break Break: PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Art Attack - A shared Meet Carl Hiaasen! experience in public art Master Gardener Series Saturday, April 16 for children of all ages. Selected Saturdays, 2 p.m. There are separate programs May 4 Children’s Book Week: Learn gardening techniques for youth & adults. Fiction Factory! A hands- from the Masters! Please see “Program Spotlight” on writing experience for March 26 Garden Pests for more information. children of all ages! April 16 Planting for Summer and Lawns PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Children’s Book Week Presented by the Marion County Master Gardeners, Marion County Extension Brown Bag Luncheon: Celebration, May 2 - 8 Services/ University of Florida, IFAS Topic TBA Finish a story started by some of PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN Tuesday, April 12, 12 Noon today’s most fascinating writers. Feed your mind and your body! Bring See Program Spotlight for details. Preschool Storytime your lunch and enjoy a program STORYTIMES Fridays, 10:30 a.m. sure to delight. Delicious dessert March 4 - May 27 provided. Reservations required. Baby and Toddler Storytime Storytime is fun time with a variety Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. of stories, finger plays, flannel PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN March 3 – April 26 boards, music and art for ages Stories, music, art, and creative play 3 - 5 and their grownups. Children’s Book Week for ages 0 – 2 and their caregivers. Celebration, May 2 - 8 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss Preschool Storytime Finish a story started by some of Saturday, March 5, 2 – 3 p.m. today’s most fascinating writers. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Program will be held in the See Program Spotlight for details. March 3 – April 28 Arts & Crafts Room. Come Books, music, art, and playtime for early, seating is limited. ages 3 - 5 and their caregivers. Refreshments served by The Friends of Library. See Program Spotlight for other locations.

12 words Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org images

Library Snapshot Day images photos and Events of the Marion County Public Library System

* 5 Fun Facts Quiz Answers: 1-C; 2-D; 3-H; 4-J; 5-O Quiz Facts 5 Fun

* for more images, visit the library web site at library.marioncountyfl.org

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 13 take the continued from page 4 studying the pictures, borrowing everything fun on the subject “Titanic.” His mother checked some books out for him several times as well. His teacher brought the paper he typed to facts the library staff where it was lovingly kept ever since, proving that libraries not only of- fer research resources to students for gradu- quiz ate credit, but also awaken interests, encour- By Michelle Risko age imagination, and reap satisfaction for Ever wonder how busy Marion County libraries are? Traditional ideas about little people, too. libraries may have you believing the library is a serious place, quiet as a Happiest ending for this memory would be tomb, and no fun. On the contrary, the library is a very active place. Can you that Matt Roland is now a novelist and his guess how many of your friends and neighbors visited Marion County Public teacher earned her Library Science degree. Libraries last year, and what kinds of activities they discovered at the library? But, the way the world works is that Matt graduated from University of Florida and is Last year, librarians at the Marion now in Law School and the teacher is now County Public Library System Dr. Sharon Hildebrand, teaching an educa- answered ______questions. tion class at the University of Florida. a. 3,451,101 Both are Library advocates and pleasure b. 51,762 readers. gw c. 1,179,810

Circulation staff registered ______Tell Us Your new library card holders. d. 16,377 Library Story e. 557 Do you have a favorite library story? How f. 30,546 has the library made a difference in your life? Share with us your personal story about The library offered 294 how you have benefitted from using your computer classes, which were public library. Has the library enabled you attended by _____ people. to search for a job, enjoy storytime with g. 615 your family, learn basic computer skills, h. 2,364 or save money? Or are there other library i. 11,843 experiences that you would like to share? If so, we’d like to hear from you. It’s simple. Stop by any of the eight Marion County Public computers were used ______times. Public Library locations and visit our “Tell j. 332,706 Us Your Library Story” display for more k. 3,254,896 details. Fill out a “Tell Us Your Library Story” l. 10,724 card or talk to any of our library staff members. Or, you may also contact our Community Liaison, Karen Jensen, at 352- Meeting rooms hosted ______meetings 368-4507, send her an e-mail at karen. with 46,621 persons in attendance. [email protected] or write to us m. 4001 at: Marion County Public Library System, n. 25,651 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL. o. 2,218 34470, Attn: Karen Jensen Check your answers on page 13

14 words Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org fun facts Friends of the Ocala Public Library’s News and Notes quiz celebrate national library week with Carl Hiassen Nationally-known author checks will be accepted; and columnist Carl Hiaasen sorry, no credit cards. will speak in the Klein Center Those interested in joining at the College of Central The Friends may download Florida on Saturday, April the application on our Web 16, under the auspices of The site. Marion County Public Library Any remaining tickets System and The Friends of will be sold at the same the Ocala Public Library. His im Chapman location and times visit is timed to coincide with beginning March 14. Florida National Library Week. photo by T Check the Web site for Tickets for the event will cost $25 availability. Please call 873-8574 with Cowboys: per person and will be sold at the questions. Keepers of Headquarters-Ocala Library on Silver Seats, except for sponsors and Springs Blvd. Members of the Friends benefactors, will be unreserved. Doors the Last Frontier of the Ocala Library will be able to will open at 6:00 p.m. and Mr. Hiaasen Renowned photojournalist purchase a maximum of two tickets will speak at 7 p.m. Books will be Carlton Ward, Jr. will discuss his March 7 through March 12 in the lobby available for purchase and Mr. Hiaasen book Florida Cowboys: Keepers from 10-12 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. weekdays will sign them after his talk (limit one of the Last Frontier, share some and 10-12 p.m. on Saturday. Cash or book per person).

of his stunning photographs, On behalf of the Friends of the Ocala Public Library, Inc. and the Marion County Library and speak about preserving System, we thank these sponsors who made possible our events with Carl Hiaasen.

Florida wilderness on Sunday, Individual Sponsors May 22nd, at 2:00 p.m. Norm and Margaret Anderson PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS 352-351-2222 Dr. & Mrs. R. Asokan With Mr. Ward, an eighth- Mr. & Mrs. Douglas P. Cone and Family generation Floridian, we will Chick & Sara Dassance “visit a Florida where sunburn is Barbara Fitos the result of honest hard work.” Martha & Stan Hanson Mary Brent Kraus This will be our annual meeting, Susan H. Peters but is free and open to all. Dr. & Mrs. William Trice Refreshments will be served, and Mr. Ward will sell and Apr. 16, 2011: Carl Hiassen autograph his books. You can Mark 2 PM: Event for students, Livestock Pavillion Auditorium (doors close at 2:45) 7 PM: Event for adults, Klein Center at College of Central Florida see more of his photographs of Your May 7, 2011, 10AM-4PM: Quarterly Book Sale the Gulf of Mexico, on display Held in Meeting Rooms, Headquarters–Ocala Public Library at the Appleton Museum Calendar May 22, 2011, 2PM: of Art through March 20. Florida Cowboys: Keepers of the Last Frontier with Carlton Ward, Jr. This event is free, open to the public, and held in Meeting Room C, Headquarters–Ocala Public Library

Visit Our Web Site @ www.friendsoftheocalalibrary.org • Please Renew Your Friends Membership

Spring 2011 library.marioncountyfl.org words 15 prsrt std us postage paid Ocala, FL 2720 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala, Florida 34470 Permit #406 profiles linda watson By Ken Tipper ack in 1977, Library Systems Supervisor Linda Watson Blearned from her mother that there was a part-time job opening at the Ocala Public Library. Linda, Ocala-born and a graduate of Vanguard High School, successfully applied for the job and started work shelving and repairing books. The job became permanent a year later, and led to a 34-year career, during which Linda progressed through the ranks as cataloguing assistant, inter-library loans department, supervisor of tech- nical services systems, and adminis- trator of Integrated Library systems. Appointed Library Systems Super- visor in 1993, Linda has witnessed the public computer room at the main Linda is currently teaching Cayden many changes in the way the library library on any day of the week will how to ride a trail bike on the Santos serves the community, the most dra- confirm that all the computers are be- Trail. Linda also runs five miles three matic being the introduction of public ing used, with patrons awaiting their times a week, and in 2008 ran the access computers. turn. 26.3-mile Disney Marathon, a feat she “The Gates Foundation had given There are 202 computers distributed does not want to repeat. She also ran in us 100 computers for use in the main throughout the Marion County Public the 2006 Disney Half Marathon. Oh, library and branches, and the public Library System for public use, and 156 and she also works out at the Compass response to the program was immedi- computers for staff system-wide. Gym regularly. ate and enthusiastic,” said Linda. “We Away from the office, Linda is very “I really enjoy what I do every day, had to learn how to allot time spots in involved with her two grandsons, which makes my job so much easier. order to make it fair to all, since our Cayden (7), and Gavin (4), whose fa- And the fact that my bosses have con- early users were reluctant to leave ther, Chad, tragically lost his wife and fidence in me makes it even more en- their computer space.” A glance into their mother at the age of 26. joyable,” said Linda. gw