|
In support of the on -going transformation towards
<br />a digital world, the Library continues to offer one-on-
<br />one tutoring sessions to instruct patrons in the use of
<br />their iPads, Kindles, and other devices to download
<br />books and experiment with apps. Our new "App of the
<br />Week" feature has showcased Library related apps like
<br />OverDrive, Axis360, Libby, and the CLAMS app, as
<br />well as unique tools including Sharktivity,
<br />Massachusetts Alerts, Kitchen Stories, Triposo, and
<br />Colorfly. Although we are eager to adopt new
<br />technologies, and the 24/7 remote access to resources
<br />that it facilitates, we value and embrace our strength as
<br />a vital member of a connected community.
<br />Partnerships and programming are essential to
<br />fulfilling our mission as a community center and
<br />gathering place. Our long-standing tradition of
<br />collaborating with the Mashpee Schools through the
<br />Mashpee Family and Community Engagement
<br />program continued to set the standard for outreach to
<br />our youngest residents. This venture allowed the
<br />Library to bring educational and literacy programs such
<br />as Lap Babies, Creative Movement, and Toddle Time
<br />to our pre-school patrons lead by the incomparable
<br />Rosemary Modic, and to expand our offerings with the
<br />addition of a weekly Tiny Tots program. This new
<br />"Play & Learn" drop -in program is designed especially
<br />for tiny ones age 15 to 24 months and parents or
<br />caregivers. Stories, movement, songs and playtime
<br />activities are especially chosen to promote emergent
<br />literacy skills and motor development.
<br />Older children and tweens flocked to the Library
<br />to watch movies, play games, experiment with
<br />technology, and learn new skills. Motorized Artbots
<br />and Glue and Go Do -It -Yourself Halloween costumes
<br />encouraged creativity and imagination. Mashpee's
<br />finest K-9 Officer, Lola, established herself as a local
<br />celebrity. Her enthusiasm for her work, and keen nose
<br />delighted the capacity crowds with each visit. LEGO
<br />Club, Book Clubs, Movies, Brownie Troop projects,
<br />and Homework Afternoons offered activities for all
<br />ages and interests.
<br />In addition to our traditional Summer Reading
<br />Program and other activities, we proudly joined the
<br />ranks of Cape Cod Libraries and organizations who
<br />partnered with Project Bread to offer a Kids Free
<br />Summer Lunch Program. In conjunction with the Food
<br />Services division of the Mashpee Public Schools and
<br />its Director, Gus Stickley, free lunches were provided
<br />to Mashpee children and teens every Monday and
<br />Wednesday as part of an initiative to ensure that local
<br />families had access to healthy and nutritious meals
<br />when school lunch programs were not an option. Picnic
<br />style lunches were provided and paired with outdoor
<br />play, games, activities, and movies, which were all
<br />funded by the Friends of the Mashpee Library. This
<br />program encompassed staff from all departments of the
<br />Library and created a sense of teamwork and
<br />accomplishment unlike any other undertaking, and was
<br />easily one of the most rewarding experiences of our
<br />careers.
<br />Under the leadership of President Ann
<br />MacDonald and its Executive Board, the Friends of the
<br />Mashpee Library enjoyed great success as fundraisers
<br />and advocates for the Library. Recognizing that they
<br />are only as successful as the community that supports
<br />them, they kicked off the year by awarding the
<br />inaugural "Friend of the Year" award to local author,
<br />and former Library Trustee, Chip Bishop. During his
<br />time on the Library Board, Chip Bishop served as the
<br />liaison to the Friends group and inspired them to set
<br />lofty goals, and build bridges to welcome all
<br />newcomers to the Library and community. The entire
<br />Library family mourned Chip's passing months later,
<br />and only then did we fully realize what a remarkable
<br />man we had been privileged to call our dear friend. His
<br />warmth and spirit touched us all, and he will be
<br />remembered as one of our most passionate advocates.
<br />Through the generosity of the Friends, the Library
<br />moved forward with a landscaping plan designed to
<br />provide both beauty and functionality by incorporating
<br />native plants, shrubs, and trees throughout the grounds
<br />and creating a Celebration Garden to recognize the
<br />Library's Champions and Angels. It will be a vibrant
<br />space to be enjoyed by all who visit.
<br />A sold -out luncheon featuring Pulitzer Prize
<br />winning author, Geraldine Brooks was an undeniable
<br />highlight of the Friends' special programs as she
<br />captivated the audience with tales of her life as foreign
<br />correspondent, journalist, and writer. Through the
<br />support of the Friends, and the funds they raise from
<br />community donations, we are able to sustain all of the
<br />free programs and services that offered each year. And
<br />beyond that, they are always ready to step in with
<br />support when unexpected needs or exciting
<br />opportunities materialize. It is impossible to express
<br />our gratitude and appreciation for their tireless efforts.
<br />119
<br />
|