JPL Announces New Mobile Hotspots

/in /by

Joplin Public Library is pleased to announce new funding for 600 short term and long term mobile hotspots thanks to the Federal Communication Commission’s Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF). These devices are available for check out by Library cardholders who do not have reliable internet access.  As part of the funding agreement, the hotspots require the cardholder to sign and return a statement that they would otherwise lack access to equipment or services sufficient to meet their educational needs (or those of their household).

The mobile hotspots are capable of providing Wi-Fi for up to 15 devices. Active Library cardholders may check-out a hotspot at the Joplin Public Library at 1901 E. 20th Street, during scheduled business hours. Short term hotspots are available on a first come, first served basis. The check-out period for the short term hotspot device is set at 21-days. The long term hotspot devices may be checked out for up to one year, or until the program ends November 30, 2023.

“In today’s world, almost everyone needs digital access,” said Library Director Jeana Gockley.  “As a public library we are continually looking for ways to provide this access for our many users. We are grateful to the Federal government for providing these funds and allowing the Library the ability to increase connection and learning for our community members.”

The ECF is a federal program, which gives funding to schools and libraries to provide internet connectivity and technology to communities.

Goodreads Best Books of 2022

/in , /by
Read more

MLA Conference 2022

/in /by

In an effort to better serve our patrons, Library staff are continually learning and growing in their fields. Recently, several Joplin Public Library staff attended the Missouri Library Association Conference, held in Springfield, MO. The focus of this year’s conference was reconnection with a goal of envisioning what is next for libraries, engaging staff, and empowering patrons.

Each staff member was able to choose which lectures to attend with choices like Performers Showcase, Library Outreach 101, Readers Advisory, and more! JPL’s Library Director, Jeana Gockley, was a featured presenter. Her talk, “From the Ground Up: Creating a Friends of the Library”, was well attended.

Another highlight from the conference was that Christina Matekel-Gibson, JPL’s Children’s Librarian, was awarded the Patt Behler Call-to-Conference Award. The Patt Behler Call-to-Conference Award is sponsored by the Youth Services Community of Interest (YSCI) and is offered to introduce working librarians to the activities and programs of Missouri Library Association (MLA) and YSCI and to encourage involvement and on-going participation in the professional activities of those organizations.

In speaking about the conference, Matekel-Gibson said, “I enjoyed being able to connect with librarians from all over the state to share ideas and celebrate our mutual love for libraries and literacy. The opening keynote with Marlene Chism about moving from conflict to connection was especially impactful!”

Each staff member is excited to put into practice what they have learned, and are already looking forward to next year’s conference!

 

New Penworthy STEAM Kits Announced

/in /by

Joplin Public Library has added twelve STEAM and phonics kits to their collection, thanks to a Missouri State Library-funded grant. These kits are geared toward children and teens, and library cardholders can check out one kit at a time for three weeks.

Four kits will be housed in the Teen Department and can be checked out at the Teen Desk or Reference Desk, and eight will be housed in the Children’s Department and can be checked out at the Children’s Desk.

The STEAM-to-GO kits contain high and low-tech toys and games from Penworthy books that are designed to foster hands-on learning. Available STEAM kits include: Money, Math, and Economics; Letters and Numbers; Yoga for Mindfulness; Tot Game Night; Green Energy; Building and Design; Explore the Outdoors; and Family Game Night. Available phonics kits include: Ready, Set, Kindergarten; Biscuit Phonics; Pete the Cat Loves Preschool; and Little Critters Phonics.

STEAM-based learning is foundational in helping children and teens develop a variety of skills, including problem-solving, collaborative learning and critical thinking through hands-on learning. Though the Library currently offers select STEAM kits, this grant allows the Children’s and Teen departments to meet the needs of more families in more diverse ways.

This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.

For information on these kits or to reserve one, visit the Library’s catalog at https://www.joplinpubliclibrary.org and search “STEAM to go,” or contact the Children’s or Teen Departments (417-623-7953).

Chat with Alyssa about Chat & Craft

/in /by

What is Chat & Craft?

Chat & Craft is a monthly program offered by the JPL where crafters of all types are invited to come together over their mutual love of handcrafts. Many of the attendees have been coming since the program started in 2006. But they are very welcoming to new faces!

What do people do?

People bring in all kinds of things; there’s lots of crochet, cross stitch, knitting, needle felting, floral wreaths, we even have painters at times. If they sell the supplies at the craft store, chances are we’ve seen it at Chat & Craft.

Are you assigning crafts?

Generally, it’s bring your own project. We do offer group projects and classes at times. Back in June, I brought in a crochet pattern for a stuffed jellyfish – to tie in with summer reading – and people really seemed to like it. Next month, I will be bringing in supplies for everyone to make a small punch needle piece.

What changes have you made since you took over?

I took over the program early this year when the previous leader retired. I was grateful to have her foundation to build on. Since then we’ve done a re-brand, to make Chat & Craft more cohesive with the rest of our adult programming and I have been able to start providing supplies for classes, thanks to grant funding from the Lemons Charitable Trust.

When do you meet?

We get together on the first Tuesday of every month from 6 to 8pm in the library’s community room. Our next meeting will be September 6th, and we are learning punch needle embroidery.

Anything to say to those who might be interested?

I would say just give it a try! We really have a lot of fun, and there’s no pressure to be an especially good crafter – or even much of a chatter. Also, if you’re having trouble learning a new craft, someone here has probably tried it. Bring it in and we can get you on the right path.

 

Bargains Galore: The JPL “Sale Shelf”

/in /by

The Joplin Public Library already offers their community a tremendous value for their dollar with their daily operations, but did you know that the Library also has a place where you can BUY books, magazines, DVDs, and more?

The “Sale Shelf” located on the Eastern end of the main lobby presents our public with a browsable selection of donated and weeded items at hugely discounted prices. Part “bargain shop”, part “garage sale”, all good fun – who can resist the urge to buy a stack of new to you items at prices like these…?

HARDBACK BOOKS $1.00
SOFTBACK BOOKS $.50
TRADE PAPERBACKS $.50
PAPERBACKS $.25
CHILDREN’S HARDBACKS $.50
CHILDREN’S SOFTBACKS $.25
DVD’S $1.00
CD’S   $1.00
AUDIOBOOKS $1.00
DVD CASES $.10
MAGAZINES $.25
ALL CHILDREN’S MAGAZINES ARE FREE
MISSOURI CONSERVATIONIST, AARP MAGAZINES AND BULLETINS, SHOW-ME AND J-MAG ARE  FREE
ALL SALES ARE FINAL
PRICES ARE AS ABOVE UNLESS OTHERWISE MARKED
Visit us today to shop the sale shelf, no Library card is required. Joplin Public Library accepts cash, cards, and checks. Joplin Public Library also accept donations of new or like new, stain and odor-free materials, just bring them to us at the front desk or call 417-623-7953 to arrange a drop off.

Who gets a card and why?

/in /by

There is a Joplin Public Library card waiting for YOU

Learn about the types of Library cards, who gets one, and for how much!

Resident Library Card

  • Annual property tax from the residents who live within the city limits of Joplin provide a great deal of the Library’s funding. (THANK YOU JOPLIN!) Due to this, everyone who lives within the city of Joplin gets a “free” JPL Library card. To  apply, you must provide a photo ID. If the ID has your current address, you are good to go. If not, you also need to bring a computer generated piece of recent mail that has your current address listed on it to apply. It is that easy! Apply in the Library (1901 E. 20th Street), or online at joplinpubliclibrary.org

But, what about those who live outside of city limits? The Library has multiple types of “non-resident” cards that are incredibly affordable or completely free! Here is a list:

Non-Resident Library Card

  • Non-resident cards are VERY affordable. If you live outside city limits, none of your tax dollars currently help fund the Joplin Public Library. The application/membership fee amount charged is calculated as the average amount an in-city resident pays to the Library from their annual property tax payment.
    • Non-residents are asked to pay a fee of $50 per year for your whole household. (Only $4.17 per month), OR, an exciting new option is our “trial card” which costs only $12.50 (for your entire household) and is good for 3 months! 

Company Library Card

  • Anyone who operates a business within Joplin city limits qualifies for a FREE Company Library card! (Ownership of the business is not required.) The application must be conducted by the Owner, CEO, Director, or President and then that person and several authorized users can enjoy the benefits of checking out and downloading materials from Joplin Public Library! Any type of material can be checked out with this card.

Student Library Card

  • University or College students residing in student housing in Joplin are eligible for a FREE Library card!
  • K-12 Students who live outside of Joplin city limits, but attend a school in Joplin, qualify for a reduced rate card of $10 per student!
    • Proof of attendance at the school is required (student ID, report card, email from teacher/building, etc).

The powers of the Joplin Public Library card are limitless. With your Library card you can check out popular, interesting, classic, and new release books, DVDs (including films, documentaries, and TV shows), and more! With most card types the item limit is 50 items checked out, at a time, per card! Also, your card can access our Digital Resources – downloadable ebooks, audiobooks, and more – at no additional cost though fun, free, and convenient apps. Additionally, your card can access our Online Databases or expert Librarians for assistance with Job Hunting, Research and Genealogy, Language Learning, Cooking, DIY, and more. 

This is your Library, we can’t wait to meet you and unlock the Powers of a Joplin Public Library card in your life! Come and see us today (20th and Connecticut) or visit us online at joplinpubliclibrary.org. You may also call us at 417-623-7953. 

Joplin Public Library opens tomorrow’s doors today through diverse opportunities to learn, create, explore, and have fun.

Here to help you! JPL & Economic Security Corporation

/in /by

The local branch of the Economic Security Corporation’s official Mission statement is: To provide comprehensive services that will instill hope and share opportunities to eliminate the conditions of poverty and help neighbors achieve self-sufficiency. We also feel that this is a vital and essential mission of the Library. In the spirit of that partnership, an Outreach Worker from the Economic Security Corporation is available once per month (every third Friday) in the Library lobby from 1 to 3 pm.

Economic Security is an incredibly helpful community hub for any and all sorts of help. Some of the most common needs they work to meet include rental payment assistance and energy bill assistance for those struggling financially. They can even help to assist in ways such as providing a no cost smart phone, finding insurance or low to no cost medical or dental care, or even to connect to legal assistance. Other helpful resources fall under the umbrella of case management. In this instance, an Outreach Worker builds a complete relationship with a family and assists all of their needs. This resource can include helping search for employment, assisting in transportation for the family, looking into free or reduced childcare options (Headstart), and more!

ESC also runs a program called Housing Connect for people experiencing homelessness. They have resources for job searching and programs in place to lead these vulnerable community members out of the dangers of being unhoused, and into a safer and more stable future.

Economic Security is a LARGE, complex, and incredibly helpful organization. If you, or someone you know, are experiecing any types of stressors or obstacles due to financial situation, please visit us at the Library on Friday, August 20 from 1 to 3 pm OR visit their home office at 302 South Joplin Avenue ( in Joplin) or call them at 417-781-0352.

JPL Strategic Plan: 2021-2025

/in /by

The Joplin Public Library (JPL) has unveiled a new strategic plan effective through the year 2025. The new JPL Strategic Plan describes the Library’s mission, core values, and vision for future success while also identifying key result areas where JPL will direct its energy and resources over the next several years.

 

Joplin Public Library
Strategic Plan 2021 – 2025

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees 1.25.21

The Vision of The Joplin Public Library: Our Library is a welcoming community where learning and connection grow and lives are enriched.

The Mission of The Joplin Public Library: Our Library opens tomorrow’s doors today through diverse opportunities to learn, create, explore, and have fun.

At the Core of our Culture We Value:

  1. Respect

We present civility in all circumstances. 

  1. Relationships

Connections broaden horizons. We are better together than we are alone.

  1. A Heart of Service

We help each other live and experience our Mission.

  1. Kindness & Friendliness

We care about each other and all we serve. We demonstrate empathy and compassion.

  1. Inclusion

We value diversity and the freedom of expression. We provide information without bias or discrimination.

  1. Collaboration and Flexibility

We work together to achieve the best outcomes and believe that adaptability is necessary to grow.

  1. A Safe Environment to Explore

The right to free inquiry prospers at our Library. We also foster a right to imagine and innovate, ask and question, seek and find without judgement.

 

Strategically, JPL Focuses On These Key Result Areas To Move Toward Our Vision, While Living Our Mission:

Key Result Area: SERVICE 

Objectives:

  • Streamline internal processes to allow ease of access for Library users
  • Establish and implement staff and volunteer training for patron interactions and customer service
  • More fully welcome new Library cardholders

Key Result Area: AWARENESS

Objectives:

  • Craft strategic messages to send out on a scheduled basis, based on audience
  • Evaluate and update current signage and other wayfinding material
  • Train staff, volunteers and trustees on how to more effectively market the Library when offsite

Key Result Area: OUTREACH

Objectives:

  • Create partnerships with local businesses and organizations
  • Library staff and trustees attend Chamber of Commerce events alongside the Library Director
  • Expand services for seniors and long-term care facilities 

Key Result Area: INCLUSION

Objectives:

  • Greet Library users warmly and call people by name
  • Incentivize our loyal users and those who attend Library events
  • Finish forming the Friends group and host a membership drive
  • Encourage people to tell THEIR stories of their Library experiences

Key Result Area: ENRICHMENT

Objectives:

  • Ensure the Library has a broad range of materials available to fulfill most user’s needs
  • Create several informational campaigns about Library offerings and resources 
  • Continue to offer enhanced virtual programming, and when COVID is less of a concern bring back live programming with a renewed focus

 

 

Thank you to our local media for covering the story of our new plan! View their coverage here:

KSN/KODE/Four States Homepage

The Joplin Globe

KOAM/Fox 14 

 

Wi-Fi for all! JPL adds Wireless Services

/in /by
Users can now enjoy new, exciting opportunities to access broadband technologies, following the receipt of funding from the CARES Act and Missouri Department of Economic Development. Grant funds have been used to purchase 100 wireless mobile hotspots from T-Mobile and an outdoor wireless access point.

The mobile hotspots are capable of providing Wi-Fi for up to 15 devices. Active Library users may check-out a hotspot at the Library at 1901 E. 20th Street, during scheduled business hours, or may place a hold on the item using the online catalog found at joplinpubliclibrary.org. Curbside pickup for items is also available. The check-out period for the hotspot device is set at 21-days.

The recently installed outdoor wireless access point is being used to boost the Library’s internet signal. Free public Wi-Fi is now available 5am-midnight in the parking lot and outdoor areas of the Library.  No Library card or password is necessary.

“COVID-19 has made it more apparent that broadband access is lacking for many of our community members,” said Library Director Jeana Gockley. “By providing these resources, we are striving to increase access, and in turn, strengthen our community.”

These projects were supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the CARES Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, and from the Missouri Department of Economic Development.