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As the Page Turns
Did you know that your local Library is a community hub of activity where local clubs and organizations meet? On Monday, January 5th, Sun Bonnet Sue Stitchers met in our community room to teach, exchange patterns, and get together to crochet, knit, embroider, quilt and practice other such fiber arts while enjoying good conversation and company.

On Tuesday, January 6th, PEATC held their monthly meeting in the Library’s community room. What is PEATC? PEATC stands for Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center, which provides tools and information to empower parents/guardians of students with disabilities (birth – 26 years of age) with services and support, research-based information and training, and opportunities for strategic partnerships and advocacy for systemic improvement. For more information on PEATC please visit their website at: https://peatc.org/. Their next meeting at the Library will be held on Tuesday, February 3rd, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

On Wednesday, January 7th, the Library hosted our weekly Story & Craft time, featuring the book “Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter” by Kenard Pak. Join a brother and sister as they explore nature and take a stroll through their twinkling town, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with everything from the setting sun to curious deer, they say goodbye to autumn and welcome the glorious first snow of winter. The kids enjoyed making snowmen from recycled paper towel rolls and embellishments while enjoying snacks and juice. Our next Preschool Story & Craft Time will be held on Wednesday, January 14th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

Just a reminder to all our patrons, we have updated our software, and you can once again place holds on items via our website. You can log in using your Library Card number and your password, which is the last 4 digits of your card number, unless you have changed it. We would like to remind you to please remember to log out of your account if you are on a library-owned or other public computer. To view your account, or place holds visit: www.jrjml.org and click on “My Account” in the upper right hand corner of the screen.

It is the start of a new year and we would like to remind all clubs, churches and other civic organizations that it is time to fill out a new annual “Community Room Use Form” to reserve and make use of the Library’s community room. This room is for non-profit reasons only, there is no charge to use this room, and only during normal business hours. For more information or to fill out an online form please visit: https://www.jrjml.org/meeting-room/.

Trot and Spot, ALIP’s (Appomattox Literacy Intervention Project) book buses, will return to the Library starting this week as a part of their winter run! You can catch Trot the Horse or Spot the Dog in the Library’s parking lot for the next several weeks! These buses are the brainchild of a former APS Reading Specialist. Trot and Spot are retired school buses painted to resemble their respective animals. They travel throughout Appomattox County year-round, visiting preschool classes, Head Start classes, daycare facilities, home care centers, local private schools, neighborhoods, and private residences. For the latest Trot and Spot schedules come into the Library for a copy, or visit our social media accounts.

Your local public library, (that’s us!), serves the public in many ways. One of them is our continuing “Think Beyond the Can” program. What is Think Beyond the Can? It is an outreach program of accepting donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the winter. Donations may be dropped off at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular business hours. If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has a box of gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them, so all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library. For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards. If you know of anyone, or are interested in receiving a selection of Meal in a Bag Kits, residents can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/finr or call us. The Library will contact you when the Meal in a Bag Kits are available for pickup. In addition, we will be distributing totes of meal kits to some area food banks. For a list of local area resources, please visit: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc.

In observation of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day the Library will be closed on Monday, January 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, January 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop will remain open.

In observation of Presidents’ Day the Library will be closed on Monday, February 16th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, February 17th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article/Photo submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items and we would like to highlight the following DVDs:
```
    Sin City
    Freaky Friday
    Inside Out 2
    Dangerous
    Last Seen Alive
    Downton Abbey: A New Era
```
Community Calendar

January 15th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the community room. Join us for free refreshments and a family-friendly movie classic adventure of a young boy as he leads his group of friends and his older brother on a quest for a legendary long-lost treasure to stop their homes from being demolished. This movie is rated PG.

January 19th, Monday – Library closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 20th, Tuesday – Trot the Book Bus to be in the parking lot of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Patrons, preschool through high school, can borrow a book from this horse-painted book bus. The Library accepts Trot and Spot returns at any time during normal business hours.

January 20th, Tuesday – Jamerson Memorial Library Board Meeting at 4:00 pm in the Library’s community room. We are located at 157 Main Street. This meeting is open to the public.

January 21st, Wednesday – Holliday Lake and Jamerson Library’s Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Ranger Chance from Holliday Lake State Park will feature an age-appropriate bird book, followed by a simple bird craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons. Brought to you by the Flight Path Grant.

January 21st, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to be in the parking lot of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library from 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm. Patrons, preschool through high school, can borrow a book from this dog-painted book bus. The Library accepts Trot and Spot returns at any time during normal business hours.

January 22nd, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s After School Crafts with MaKayla starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Join MaKayla in making winter bird seed wreaths to feed our feathered friends, brought to you by the Flight Path Grant. Learn about winter native birds, and enjoy refreshments as we provide all materials needed to make several bird seed wreaths for you to take home.

January 24th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults – Bird Seed Wreaths starting at 10:00 am, brought to you by the Flight Path Grant. Adults 18+ are encouraged to learn how to make winter bird seed rings to take home, to feed native birds. All materials will be supplied. You must be per-register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

January 27th, Tuesday – Trot the Book Bus to be in the parking lot of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Patrons, preschool through high school, can borrow a book from this horse-painted book bus. The Library accepts Trot and Spot returns at any time during normal business hours.

January 27th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Crafts starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. Join us for and assortment of winter crafts, hot chocolate, and snacks.

January 28th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

January 28th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to be in the parking lot of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library from 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm. Patrons, preschool through high school, can borrow a book from this dog-painted book bus. The Library accepts Trot and Spot returns at any time during normal business hours.

January 29th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Puzzle Pandemonium! Join us for puzzles of all types, hot chocolate, and snacks as we celebrate National Puzzle Day! Hosted in our community room from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Open to all ages!
January 15, 2026
As the Page Turns
Snowstorms, Community Service, and the New Year

January is named for the Roman god Janus, protector of gates and doorways. Janus is depicted with two faces, one looking into the past, the other into the future. January’s stone is the garnet, and the flower is the carnation.

Staff, volunteers, and ACLA (Appomattox County Library Association) members want like to thank all our patrons who participated in our many outreach programs for December. Without your generosity, our Think Beyond the Can, Elves for Elders, St. Anne’s Community Christmas Tree, and local food bank donations would not be possible. These programs positively affected local families in need by providing much-needed meals and gifts for the Holiday Season. Without the support of our patrons, these programs would not have been possible.

December has already brought a wintery mix and snow, with more winter weather on the way. Please follow us on Facebook for the latest Library Closings at: https://www.facebook.com/JamersonMemorialLibrary . The safety of our patrons come first, so please use caution when thinking about traveling in bad weather. Don’t forget that we offer online services like Libby, Kanopy, Just for Kids (videos), and lots more on our website: www.jrjml.org. If you need to renew your materials or have any other questions, call us at 434.352.5340.

Your local public library, (That’s us!), serves the public in many ways. One them is our continuing “Think Beyond the Can” program. What is Think Beyond the Can? An outreach program to accept donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the winter. Donations may be dropped off at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular business hours. If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has a box of gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them, so all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library. For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards. If you know of anyone, or are interested in receiving a selection of Meal in a Bag Kits, residents can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/finr or call us. The Library will contact you when the Meal in a Bag Kits are available for pickup. In addition, we will be distributing totes of meal kits to some area food banks. For a list of local area resources, please visit: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc.

On Wednesday, December 10th, the Library and our frosty Library Fairy hosted our Story & Craft Time, featuring the book “How to Catch a Gingerbread Man” by Adam Wallace. Do you have what it takes to catch the Gingerbread Man? The famous storybook character has magically come to life and leapt from the pages during story time! Follow along as the Gingerbread Man runs loose in a bookstore with the help of Robin Hood, Sherlock Holmes, Peter Rabbit, nursery rhyme characters, and more! If you set the right traps, you might…just might be able to catch this wily cookie and finish the fairy tale! The kids made 3D cardstock gingerbread houses with candy, frosting and snow sticker embellishments, while snacks. Our next Story & Craft Time will be on Wednesday, December 17th, starting at 11:00 am & 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

We would like to thank ACLA (Appomattox County Library Association) for hosting another “Wrapping for a Cause”. ACLA is this Library’s friends of the library-style group that recruited the services of staff, volunteers and ACLA members to wrap patron’s holiday gifts in exchange for a monetary donation. All donations will support the Library through special purchases, sponsorship of programs, needed supplies, books and other library-related needs.

The winners of the Grinch Kisses & Christmas Candy Counting Contest are Julie Martin with the closets guess and winner of the candy and a t-shirt, runner ups were Katie Ritchie and Wendy Walker, winning a t-shirt each. We would like to thank everyone who took a chance and be sure to look out for future raffles and contests.

In observation of the New Year Holiday the Library will be closing on Wednesday, December 31st at 5:00 pm, and closed all day on Thursday, January 1st. We will reopen for normal business on Friday, January 2nd, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

In observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day the Library will be closed on Monday, January 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, January 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article/Photo Submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items, we would like to highlight the following:
```
DVDs
    Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning
    The Bad Guys 2  
    Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – Season 2
    The Long Walk
    The Roses
```
Community Calendar

January 1, Thursday – Library Closed for New Years

January 5th, Monday – Sun Bonnet Sue Stitchers to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 10:00am. Anyone interested in sharing or learning a skill like crocheting, knitting, quilting, needlework, sewing or other related hobbies are encouraged to attend. Enjoy good company while sharing patterns, exchanging ideas, learning new projects or teaching others. This meeting is open to anyone willing to teach or learn, yes gentleman, this includes you too!

January 6th, Tuesday – PEATC (Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center) to be at the Jamerson Library from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. PEATC provides tools and information to empower parents/guardians of students with disabilities (birth – 26 years of age) with services and support, research-based information and training, and opportunities for strategic partnerships and advocacy for systemic improvement. For more information on PEATC please visit their website at: https://peatc.org/.

January 7th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

January 8th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade. Please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

January 8th, Thursday – Jamerson Library Adult Book Club to meet in the Library’s community room at 5:30 pm. This month the Library will feature the book “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain. In Quiet, Susan Cain argues that we dramatically undervalue introverts and shows how much we lose in doing so. She charts the rise of the Extrovert Ideal throughout the twentieth century and explores how deeply it has come to permeate our culture. She also introduces us to successful introverts—from a witty, high-octane public speaker who recharges in solitude after his talks, to a record-breaking salesman who quietly taps into the power of questions. Passionately argued, impeccably researched, and filled with indelible stories of real people, Quiet has the power to permanently change how you see yourself. You can pick up a copy of this book at the front desk.

January 10th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults. This month’s project will be to make an embossed tin plate design using a few simple tools and your imagination. You must be pre-registered to attend this class, you can register at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

January 13th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Tween STEAM Program starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. It’s a marshmallow world as we make catapults to launch pom poms and marshmallows! Enjoy eating and launching these fluffy and soft missiles of sweetness at your friends and family. Don’t eat the pom poms! We will provide all needed supplies and snacks!

January 14th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

January 14th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month’s book is Wendy’s Ever After by Julie Wright. Wendy Darling is drawn back to Neverland, torn between childhood memories of Peter Pan and the mysterious young man who now stirs her heart. Caught between the allure of her past and the promise of the future, Wendy must navigate a perilous new journey, rediscovering the courage and wonder that once defined her youth. As she battles old foes and forges allies with new friends, Wendy is torn between her memories of a boy she once loved and the man who has stolen her heart. We have several copies available at the front desk.

January 15th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the community room. Join us for free refreshments and a family-friendly movie classic adventure of a young boy as he leads his group of friends and his older brother on a quest for a legendary long-lost treasure to stop their homes from being demolished. This movie is rated PG.

January 19th, Monday – Library Closed MLK jr. Day

January 20th, Tuesday – Jamerson Memorial Library Board Meeting at 4:00 pm in the Library’s community room. We are located at 157 Main Street. This meeting is open to the public.

January 21st, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

January 22nd, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s After School Crafts with MaKayla starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Join MaKayla in making winter bird seed wreaths to feed our feathered friends, brought to you by the Flight Path Grant. Learn about winter native birds, and enjoy refreshments as we provide all materials needed to make several bird seed wreaths for you to take home.

January 24th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults – Bird Seed Wreaths starting at 10:00 am, brought to you by the Flight Path Grant. Adults 18+ are encouraged to learn how to make winter bird seed rings to take home, to feed native birds. All materials will be supplied. You must be per-register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

January 27th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Crafts starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. Join us for assortment of winter crafts, hot chocolate and snacks.

January 28th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

January 29th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Puzzle Pandemonium! Join us for puzzles of all types, hot chocolate, and snacks as we celebrate National Puzzle Day! Hosted in our community room from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Open to all ages!
December 30, 2025
Breaking: Former Appomattox Hardware Building Sold for $104,500

Appomattox, Va. — The long-vacant former Appomattox Hardware building at the end of Main Street has been sold at auction, court records show.

Deed records filed with the Appomattox Circuit Court Clerk’s Office show the property at 1850 Church Street was purchased for $104,500 by Marshal LLC, which is affiliated through shared ownership with several local businesses, including Marshal’s Food Store and Marshal’s Bar & Grill.

The building housed Appomattox Hardware Co. for nearly a century and later the Appomattox Gallery. It has remained vacant for more than five years at the eastern end of Main Street.

The structure is a contributing property in the Appomattox Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a federal designation recognizing historically significant buildings and areas.

The sale was completed in December following a bank asset auction. The deed lists Citizens Bank & Trust Company as grantor and Marshal LLC as grantee.

Tax assessment records place the property’s assessed value at $293,300.

The Appomattox Times will report any additional details as they become available.

December 23, 2025
Town of Appomattox Wins $400,000 State Grant for Garment Factory Redevelopment

APPOMATTOX — The Town of Appomattox has been awarded a $400,000 grant from Virginia Housing to support demolition and redevelopment of the long-vacant former garment factory at 1720 Confederate Boulevard.

The property has sat deteriorating for nearly two decades. The grant will fund site clearance and help advance plans to build approximately 34 units of affordable housing.

The project is a public-private partnership between the Town and Phillip Jamerson of Jamerson Real Estate. Jamerson Real Estate will handle demolition, construction, and long-term management of the housing once completed.

Town Manager Michael Campbell said Jamerson has been involved from the outset and will remain a central partner through all phases of the project.

“For two decades, this property has been a symbol of stagnation,” Campbell said in a statement. “This partnership allows it to become a source of stability and attainable housing.”

The Town also credited regional support for strengthening the grant application, including assistance from Megan Lucas and the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, along with letters of support from local business owners.

Virginia Housing administers the grant program, which is aimed at expanding affordable and workforce housing across the Commonwealth.

Next steps include grant compliance with Virginia Housing, demolition of the existing structure, development of the housing units, and establishment of long-term property management. Additional project details are expected as work moves forward.

December 18, 2025
As The Page Turns

Holiday Spirit, Community Service, and Grinchy Vibes

Catch the Holiday Spirit and let your heart grow up to 3x as large at the Jamerson Library! We have lots of love and outreach to share with the community! You can be a part of it all by participating in or attending one of our many programs.

Grinch Kisses & Christmas Candy Counting Contest, get down with the green! Guess the number of candies, including the Grinch kisses, for a chance to win our Christmas Candy Counting Contest! The person who comes the closest without going over will win a t-shirt and the candy. There will be two runner-ups, who will win a t-shirt. We will announce the winners on Wednesday, December 17th, in the morning. In the event of a tie, we will draw for the winners. It is one guess per person, per visit.

There is box for the St. Anne’s Community Christmas Tree outreach near the circulation desk for patrons to bring in lightly used and new gifts for children from preschool through high school age. St. Anne’s works with other local churches to help provide Christmas gifts for families in need. If you have an extra toy, blanket, socks, coloring books, art supplies, books, clothes, or other such items you are encouraged to donate, and help spread the Christmas Spirit throughout Appomattox.

The Library is also accepting donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the holidays. Donations may be dropped off at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular business hours. If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has a box of gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them, so all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library. For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards.

If know of, or are someone interested in receiving a selection of Meal in a Bag Kits you must register your family online at: https://www.jrjml.org/finr or call us. The Library will be in contact with you when the Meal in a Bag Kits are available for you to pick up. In addition we will be distributing totes of meal kits to some area food banks. For a list of local are area resources please visit: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc.

Our gift to you! If you have a valid Library Card in good standing, from the Jamerson Memorial Library it gives you free access to kanopy! What is kanopy? kanopy is an online streaming venue that hosts thousands of films for free to our patrons! You can start streaming the moment you sign up using your card! kanopy has partnered with us to bring you ad-free films and series that can be enjoyed on your TV, mobile phone, tablet, and online. You can visit the Jamerson Library’s kanopy service at: https://www.kanopy.com/en/jamerson.

On Wednesday, December 3rd, it as “beavermania” as the Library welcomed Ranger Chance from Holliday Lake as our guest reader for our weekly Story & Craft Time. Ranger Chance read the book “Three Little Beavers” by Jean H. Diehl. Beatrix the beaver longs to be good at something. Her brother, Bevan, is an expert at repairing the lodge with mud and twigs. Her sister, Beverly, is a superb swimmer and underwater gymnast. What makes Beatrix stand out? The kids enjoyed making beaver paper bag puppets while enjoying snacks. Our next Story & Craft Time will on Wednesday, December 10th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

On Thursday, December 4th, ACLA (Appomattox County Library Association) hosted the first of their “Wrapping for a Cause” fundraisers to support the Jamerson Memorial Library. ACLA members, volunteers and a Library staff member wrapped holiday gifts with beautiful bows in exchange for a monetary donation. All monetary donations will be used to help the Library fund special purchases, programs, guest speakers and more. If you would like to have your packages wrapped, their next Wrapping for a Cause will be on Saturday, December 13th, in the Library’s community room from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Support your local Library by supporting ACLA’s gift wrapping efforts.

On Saturday, December 6th Library Director Mrs. Cindy Scheu held a Christmas Creative Class for adults in the community room. Those that attended turned Christmas cards into ornaments by tracing out rounds, folding and gluing. Our next Creative Class for Adults will be on Saturday, January 10th, starting at 10:00 am. You may register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

Library staff members participated in the Moose Lodge’s “Santa’s Crafty Pizza Party” on Saturday, December 6th. The kids got to make Christmas ornaments with us! Each child was giving two ornaments to embellish, one to leave on the tree, one to take home. The Library provided a bonus Christmas craft project for the kids. There was pizza, pictures with Santa, ID Kits and more! The Library loves being invited to be a part of community events!

For parents who registered their children for the Neighborhood Forest’s Fall Indoor Plant Program, the succulent kits have arrived at the Library. You may pick up your succulent kits at the Library until Friday, December 12th, during normal business hours. We will be reaching out by sending reminder emails and phone calls. Any succulent kits not picked up after this date will find new homes or be adopted out at the next plant swap.

In observation of the Christmas Holiday, the Library will be closed from Wednesday, December 24th, through Friday, December 26th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, December 27th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article/Photo Submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items, we would like to highlight the following DVDs:
Flow
Elio
Star Trek: Section 31
Thunderbolts* The New Avengers
The Fantastic 4: First Steps

Community Calendar

December 10th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month’s featured book is “The Enchanted Sonata”, written by Heather Dixon Wallwork. Clara Stahlbaum has her future perfectly planned: marry the handsome pianist, Johann Kahler (ah!), and settle down to a life full of music. But all that changes on Christmas Eve, when Clara receives a mysterious and magical nutcracker. Whisked away to his world–an enchanted empire of beautiful palaces, fickle fairies, enormous rats, and a prince–Clara must face a magician who uses music as spells…and the future she thought she wanted. “The Enchanted Sonata,” a retelling of The Nutcracker Ballet with a dash of The Pied Piper, it will captivate readers of all ages. There are multiple copies available at the circulation desk.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Christmas Movie starting at 5:30pm in the community room. After a villain kidnaps Santa from the North Pole, an E.L.F (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative must partner with the world’s most accomplished tracker to find Santa and save Christmas. This Movie is rated PG–13. Free refreshments will be provided.

December 11th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering, and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade. Please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

December 11th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Adult Book Club starting at 5:30 pm in the Library’s community room! This month’s book selection is “The Blind Contessa’s New Machine” by Carey Wallace. Carolina Fantoni, a young contessa in 19th-century Italy, is going blind, but nobody believes her: neither her parents nor her fiancé, the town’s most sought-after bachelor. Only her friend Turri, the eccentric local inventor, understands. But as darkness erases her world, Carolina discovers one place she can still see — in her dreams. In them, she can not only see, but fly, exploring new worlds in her own mind. Based on the true story of the blind woman who inspired the invention of the typewriter. We have multiple copies of this book to borrow and return on your honor. Please see a friendly staff member at the circulation desk to obtain a copy.

December 13th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 15th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 16th, Tuesday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 17th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 17th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookies With Santa! Parents and guardians bring the kids out to meet Santa Claus! Enjoy cookies and juice or milk in the community room from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone to capture some great family memories at the local Library!

December 18th, Thursday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day, the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 18th, Thursday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 19th, Friday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day, the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 20th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 24th, Wednesday – Library Closed, no Story & Craft Time.

December 25th, Thursday – Library Closed.

December 26th, Friday – Library Closed.

December 31, Wednesday – No Story & Craft Time.

December 10, 2025
As the Page Turns
The Grinch, Succulents, Community Service and Christmas in Appomattox

Waving in December in a green and grinchy way! The Jamerson Library celebrated the heralding of the Holiday Season with a green car and the fuzzy green grumpy one by participating in the Christmas Parade as a part of Experience the Holidays in Appomattox. The Library also was a part of the great Sweet Stocking Search on Saturday. Just another weekend filled with books, movies, community outreach and more! Don’t forget that there is a gingerbread photo station outside the front doors, a Grinch banner in the foyer, and, when the community room is not in use, a fireplace and Christmas tree photo station for patrons to make use of.

December comes from the word decem, “ten”, because this had been the tenth month of the early Roman calendar. Although it’s our 12th month, the name never changed. December’s birthstone is turquoise and the flower is the orchid. A few observances in December are: National Pear Month, National Write A Business Plan Month, Operation Santa Paws, Universal Human Rights Month, Chanukah (4th–12th), Kwanzaa (26th–1st), Rosa Parks Day (1st), International Cheetah Day (4th), St. Nicholas Day (6th), National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (7th), Dewey Decimal System Day (10th), Gingerbread Decorating Day and Gingerbread House Day (12th), Bill of Rights Day (15th), Crossword Puzzle Day (21st), Winter Solstice and Yule (21st), Christmas Eve (24th), Christmas (25th), Pledge of Allegiance Day (28th), and New Year’s Eve (31st).

For parents who registered their children for the Neighborhood Forest’s Fall Indoor Plant Program, the succulent kits have arrived at the Library. You may pick up your succulent kits at the Library until Friday, December 12th, during normal business hours. We will be reaching out by sending reminder emails and phone calls. Any succulent kits not picked up after this date will find new homes or be adopted out at the next plant swap.

This year, the Library is sponsoring several outreach programs. One is “Elves for Elders”, hosted by Central Virginia Alliance for Community Living, Inc. (CVACL). Patrons are encouraged to pick an ornament tag off the tree, located in the Library’s foyer, and help provide Christmas to a local senior citizen who may not otherwise have one. Gifts are due back by 5:00 pm on December 5th. CVACL requests that you do not wrap gifts, but instead put them in a bag or box with the ornament tag. There is also an option to bring in lotion, puzzles, tissues, gift cards, blankets, towels, gloves, hats, or other items to help put together needed gifts for ornament tags that were not taken or not returned.

We also have a box for St. Anne’s Community Christmas Tree outreach near the circulation desk for patrons to bring in lightly used and new gifts for children from preschool through high school age. St. Anne’s works with other local churches to help provide Christmas gifts for families in need. If you have an extra toy, blanket, socks, coloring books, art supplies, books, clothes, or other such items you are encouraged to donate, and help spread the Christmas Spirit throughout Appomattox.

The Library is accepting donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the holidays. Donations may be dropped off at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular business hours. Thanks to a generous donation from the Women of the Moose and the Moose Lodge in Appomattox, the Library is putting together numerous Meal in a Bag Kits. We have added new recipe cards to our website and look forward to working with St. Anne’s Episcopal Church to make sure that those families in need are provided for. If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has a box of gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them, so all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library. For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards. Your participation and generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors this season.

Looking to get your Christmas gifts wrapped? The Appomattox County Library Association (ACLA) along with Library Staff and volunteers will host their first “Wrapping For a Cause” on Thursday, December 4th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm inside the Library’s community room. Get your gifts nicely wrapped, complete with bows, in exchange for a monetary donation. All donations will go to ACLA to support the Jamerson Library.

Catch the Christmas Spirit! Join the Jamerson Library staff at the Moose Lodge’s “Santa’s Crafty Pizza Party” on Saturday, December 6th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Come do “make and take” Christmas ornaments with us! You make an ornament to put on the tree, and take one home with you! There will be pizza, pictures with Santa, ID Kits and more! Moose Lodge participation fees do apply.

In observation of the Christmas Holiday, the Library will be closed from Wednesday, December 24th, through Friday, December 26th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, December 27th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article/Photo Submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items, we would like to highlight the following:
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DVDs
    Anne of Green Gables
    Finding Normal
    Miracles From Heaven
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Community Calendar

December 1st, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 3rd, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library hosted by Holliday Lake State Park, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Ranger Chance will feature the book “Three Little Beavers” by Jean H. Diehl. Beatrix the beaver longs to be good at something. Her brother, Bevan, is an expert at repairing the lodge with mud and twigs. Her sister, Beverly, is a superb swimmer and underwater gymnast. What makes Beatrix stand out? To find out more, make plans to join us. We will have a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 4th, Thursday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 6th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults (18+) starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Learn to make paper ornaments out of recycled books, Christmas cards, scrapbooking supplies, and other embellishments. You must be pre-registered to attend. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ .

December 6th, Saturday – Catch the Christmas Spirit! Join the Jamerson Library staff at the Moose Lodge’s “Santa’s Crafty Pizza Party” on Saturday, December 6th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Come do “make and take” Christmas ornaments with us! You make an ornament to put on the tree, and take one home with you! There will be pizza, pictures with Santa, ID Kits and more! Moose Lodge participation fees do apply.

December 8th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 8th, Monday – Sun Bonnet Stitchers will meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 10:00 am. Anyone interested in sharing or learning a skill like crocheting, knitting, quilting, needlework, sewing, or other related hobbies is encouraged to attend. Enjoy good company while sharing patterns, exchanging ideas, learning new projects, or teaching others. This meeting is open to anyone willing to teach or learn, yes gentleman, this includes you too!

December 9th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Tween STEAM program starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Learn how to make snowball (pom pom) catapults just in time for winter fun! Snacks will be served.

December 10th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month’s featured book is “The Enchanted Sonata”, written by Heather Dixon Wallwork. Clara Stahlbaum has her future perfectly planned: marry the handsome pianist, Johann Kahler (ah!), and settle down to a life full of music. But all that changes on Christmas Eve, when Clara receives a mysterious and magical nutcracker. Whisked away to his world–an enchanted empire of beautiful palaces, fickle fairies, enormous rats, and a prince–Clara must face a magician who uses music as spells…and the future she thought she wanted.”The Enchanted Sonata,” a retelling of The Nutcracker Ballet with a dash of The Pied Piper, it will captivate readers of all ages. There are multiple copies available at the circulation desk.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Christmas Movie starting at 5:30pm in the community room. After a villain kidnaps Santa from the North Pole, an E.L.F (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative must partner with the world’s most accomplished tracker to find Santa and save Christmas. This Movie is rated PG–13. Free refreshments will be provided.

December 11th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering, and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade. Please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

December 11th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Adult Book Club starting at 5:30 pm in the Library’s community room! This month’s book selection is “The Blind Contessa’s New Machine” by Carey Wallace. Carolina Fantoni, a young contessa in 19th-century Italy, is going blind, but nobody believes her: neither her parents nor her fiancé, the town’s most sought-after bachelor. Only her friend Turri, the eccentric local inventor, understands. But as darkness erases her world, Carolina discovers one place she can still see — in her dreams. In them, she can not only see, but fly, exploring new worlds in her own mind. Based on the true story of the blind woman who inspired the invention of the typewriter. We have multiple copies of this book to borrow and return on your honor. Please see a friendly staff member at the circulation desk to obtain a copy.

December 13th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 15th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 16th, Tuesday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 17th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 17th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookies With Santa! Parents and guardians bring the kids out to meet Santa Claus! Enjoy cookies and juice or milk in the community room from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone to capture some great family memories at the local Library!

December 18th, Thursday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day, the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 18th, Thursday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 19th, Friday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day, the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 20th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 24th, Wednesday – Library Closed, no Story & Craft Time.

December 25th, Thursday – Library Closed.

December 26th, Friday – Library Closed.

December 31, Wednesday – No Story & Craft Time.
December 1, 2025
As the Page Turns

Being Grateful, Winter Holidays & Community Outreach

The staff and volunteers of the Jamerson Memorial Library would to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for all the support and participation of our patrons as we wrap on one year and look forward to the next.

Photo – left to right are Linda Kitchel, Mary Ann Almond, and Gloria Garrison from the Garden Club putting the finishing touches on the outside of the Jamerson Library.

A huge thank you to the Appomattox Garden Club for providing the fresh-cut greenery wreaths and swags for our front doors, as well as outside sconces to match this year’s candy land gingerbread-inspired winter wonderland decor. For almost three decades, the Garden Club has offered their time and talent to help spread Christmas joy to Main Street by providing this service to us and other local organizations.

For Wednesday, November 19th’s Story & Craft Time, our resident Library Fairy MaKayla presented the book “Robin Hill School: We Are Thankful” by Margaret McNamara. It’s almost Thanksgiving, and Mrs. Connor asks the class to think about what they are thankful for. Reza and his mama make a list together. He can’t wait to talk to his class about his family, his dog, his bike, and so much more! But then at school, everyone takes turns saying what they’re thankful for, and the other kids say the same things Reza wanted to say! Can Reza think of something else he’s thankful for before it’s his turn to speak? The kids enjoyed snacks while decorating turkey masks. Due to the Thanksgiving Holiday there will be no Story & Craft Time on Wednesday, November 26th. Our next Story & Craft Time will be on December 3rd, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Our guest reader will be Ranger Chance from Holliday Lake, he will feature the book “Three Little Beavers” by Jean H. Diehl. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

Thursday, November 20th was a busy day for the Library. Staff worked on more Christmas decorations, and we hosted two different programs in one day. We featured After School Crafts with MaKayla for “Bad Art – Thanksgiving” and the kids made an assortment of Thanksgiving-inspired crafts with lots of embellishments while enjoying snacks. To wrap up the day, we hosted a movie inspired by a short story about a high-society woman in late-1800’s New York. When her estranged daughter becomes ill and is too proud to ask her mother for assistance, the granddaughter takes it upon herself to contact her grandmother and plead for help. Upon the daughter’s arrival, it causes an upheaval in many lives, but may also lead to reconciliation within the family. Our next Jamerson Movie Time will be on Wednesday, December 10th, starting at 5:30pm.

On Friday, November 21st, we hosted a private movie time for a group of adults who need a safe and quiet place to meet up. If you are interested in having the Library host a private craft, story, movie or other type of event for you, please feel free to reach out to us.

On Saturday, November 22nd, Library Fairy MaKayla worked her Christmas magic by loaning the Library her camera and talent for the Family, Friends & Small Group Holiday Photos . If you have missed this opportunity, we welcome you to make use of our gingerbread-inspired photo spot outside our front doors. Inside, we have a Grinch banner and if the community room is unoccupied there is the indoor photo spot, just ask an employee if it available.

This year, the Library is sponsoring several outreach programs. One is “Elves for Elders”, hosted by Central Virginia Alliance for Community Living Inc. (CVACL). Patrons are encouraged to pick an ornament tag off the tree, located in the Library’s foyer, and help provide Christmas to a local senior citizen who may not otherwise have one. Gifts are due back by 5:00 pm on December 5th. CVACL requests that you do not wrap gifts, but instead put them in a bag or box with the ornament tag. There is also an option to bring in lotion, puzzles, tissues, gift cards, blankets, towels, gloves, hats, or other items to help put together needed gifts for ornament tags that were not taken or not returned.

We also have a box for St. Anne’s Community Christmas Tree outreach near the circulation desk for patrons to bring in lightly used and new gifts for children from preschool through high school age. St. Anne’s works with other local churches to help provide Christmas gifts for families in need. If you have an extra toy, blanket, socks, coloring books, art supplies, books, clothes, or other such items you are encouraged to donate, and help spread the Christmas Spirit throughout Appomattox.

The Library is accepting donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the holidays. Donations may be dropped off at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular operating hours.

Thanks to a generous donation from the Women of the Moose and the Moose Lodge in Appomattox, the Library is putting together numerous Meal in a Bag Kits. We have added new recipe cards to our website and look forward to working with St. Anne’s Episcopal Church to make sure that those families in need are provided for.

If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has a box of gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them, so all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library.
For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards. Your participation and generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors this season.

In observation of the Thanksgiving Holiday, the Library will be closed from Wednesday, November 26th, through Friday, November 28th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, November 29th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

Looking to get your Christmas gifts wrapped? The Appomattox County Library Association (ACLA) along with Library Staff and volunteers will host their first “Wrapping For A Cause” on Thursday, December 4th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm inside the Library’s community room. Get your gifts nicely wrapped, complete with bows, in exchange for a monetary donation. All donations will go to ACLA to support the Jamerson Library.

Catch the Christmas Spirit! Join the Jamerson Library staff at the Moose Lodge’s “Santa’s Crafty Pizza Party” on Saturday, December 6th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Come do “make and take” Christmas ornaments with us! You make an ornament to put on the tree, and take one home with you! There will be pizza, pictures with Santa, ID Kits and more! Moose Lodge participation fees do apply.

In observation of the Christmas Holiday, the Library will be closed from Wednesday, December 24th, through Friday, December 26th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, December 27th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article / Photo Submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

Community Calendar

November 24th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

November 26th, Wednesday – The Library will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. There will be no Story & Craft Time on this day.

November 27th, Thursday to November 28th, Friday the Library will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

November 30th, Sunday – Jamerson Library will participate in this year’s Christmas Parade. Look for the green car and the famous fuzzy grumpy green mam!

December 1st, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 3rd, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library hosted by Holliday Lake State Park, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Ranger Chance will feature the book “Three Little Beavers” by Jean H. Diehl. Beatrix the beaver longs to be good at something. Her brother, Bevan, is an expert at repairing the lodge with mud and twigs. Her sister, Beverly, is a superb swimmer and underwater gymnast. What makes Beatrix stand out? To find out more, make plans to join us. We will have a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 4th, Thursday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 6th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults (18+) starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Learn to make paper ornaments out of recycled books, Christmas cards, scrapbooking supplies, and other embellishments. You must be pre-registered to attend. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ .

December 6th, Saturday – Catch the Christmas Spirit! Join the Jamerson Library staff at the Moose Lodge’s “Santa’s Crafty Pizza Party” on Saturday, December 6th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Come do “make and take” Christmas ornaments with us! You make an ornament to put on the tree, and take one home with you! There will be pizza, pictures with Santa, ID Kits and more! Moose Lodge participation fees do apply.

December 8th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 8th, Monday – Sun Bonnet Stitchers will meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 10:00 am. Anyone interested in sharing or learning a skill like crocheting, knitting, quilting, needlework, sewing, or other related hobbies is encouraged to attend. Enjoy good company while sharing patterns, exchanging ideas, learning new projects, or teaching others. This meeting is open to anyone willing to teach or learn, yes gentleman, this includes you too!

December 9th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Tween STEAM program starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Learn how to make snowball (pom pom) catapults just in time for winter fun! Snacks will be served.

December 10th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month’s featured book is “The Enchanted Sonata”, written by Heather Dixon Wallwork. Clara Stahlbaum has her future perfectly planned: marry the handsome pianist, Johann Kahler (ah!), and settle down to a life full of music. But all that changes on Christmas Eve, when Clara receives a mysterious and magical nutcracker. Whisked away to his world–an enchanted empire of beautiful palaces, fickle fairies, enormous rats, and a prince–Clara must face a magician who uses music as spells…and the future she thought she wanted. “The Enchanted Sonata,” a retelling of The Nutcracker Ballet with a dash of The Pied Piper, it will captivate readers of all ages. There are multiple copies available at the circulation desk.

December 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Christmas Movie starting at 5:30pm in the community room. After a villain kidnaps Santa from the North Pole, an E.L.F (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative must partner with the world’s most accomplished tracker to find Santa and save Christmas. This Movie is rated PG–13. Free refreshments will be provided.

December 11th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering, and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade. Please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

December 11th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Adult Book Club starting at 5:30 pm in the Library’s community room! This month’s book selection is “The Blind Contessa’s New Machine” by Carey Wallace. Carolina Fantoni, a young contessa in 19th-century Italy, is going blind, but nobody believes her: neither her parents nor her fiancé, the town’s most sought-after bachelor. Only her friend Turri, the eccentric local inventor, understands. But as darkness erases her world, Carolina discovers one place she can still see — in her dreams. In them, she can not only see, but fly, exploring new worlds in her own mind. Based on the true story of the blind woman who inspired the invention of the typewriter. We have multiple copies of this book to borrow and return on your honor. Please see a friendly staff member at the circulation desk to obtain a copy.

December 13th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 15th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm–3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

December 16th, Tuesday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 17th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

December 17th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookies With Santa! Parents and guardians bring the kids out to meet Santa Claus! Enjoy cookies and juice or milk in the community room from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone to capture some great family memories at the local Library!

December 18th, Thursday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day, the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 18th, Thursday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 5:00 pm in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 19th, Friday – Hot Chocolate and Legos at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early-release school day the Library will be providing hot chocolate, snacks and Lego fun for students of all ages.

December 20th, Saturday – Wrapping for a Cause starting at 10:00 am in the Library’s community room. Support ACLA’s (Appomattox County Library Association) members, friends, family and volunteers as they wrap your holiday packages in exchange for a monetary donation. All funds raised will be used to support the Jamerson Memorial Library through this 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization.

December 24th, Wednesday – Library Closed, no Story & Craft Time.

December 25th, Thursday – Library Closed.

December 26th, Friday – Library Closed.

December 31, Wednesday – No Story & Craft Time.

November 24, 2025
As the Page Turns
Community Service and Think Beyond the Can at Your Local Library

The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library was saddened to hear about the passing of William “Bill” Jamerson, brother to J. Robert Jamerson, who’s name graces our door. The Jamerson Family has been a huge and positive influence on Appomattox and beyond. The Library has donated 15 children’s books to Grace Hills Day Care in honor and memory of Bill Jamerson, the day care he started. The Library staff wishes the daycare continued success on the foundation of faith and family values that the Jamerson Family instilled in their support of Grace Hills.

Photo Left to Right Lisa Dawson, Leslie Galloway (Grace Hill’s Day Care Director) and Cindy Scheu (Library Director). Cindy from the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library dropped off over a dozen new children’s book to Grace Hill’s Day Care Center in memory and honor of William “Bill” Jamerson.

In light of recent events, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library reaffirms its commitment to serving and supporting our community. As the holiday season approaches, the Library invites community members to participate in our “Think Beyond The Can”, Meal in a Bag donation drive to assist local families in need. We welcome donations of Meal in a Bag Kits, which will be distributed to households throughout our community to help ensure that every family has access to a warm and nourishing meal during the holidays. Donations may be delivered to the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library during regular operating hours. If you would like to participate, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library will be handing out gallon sized zipper bags with recipe cards in them so that all you have to do is fill the bag and return it to the library. For a list of suggested items and sample recipes, please visit our website at: https://www.jrjml.org/tbtc/ to view the Meal in a Bag recipe cards. Your participation and generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors this season. If you cannot donate a full Meal in a Bag kit, you are encouraged to drop off cans and boxes of staples and the Library will complete the kits. We suggest cans of vegetables (mixed veggies, corn, green beans, peas, etc.), chicken or beef stock, cans of chicken or tuna, bags or boxes of rice and pasta, cans of sauce, packets of spices, shelf stable milk, bouillon cubes, cans of soup, just add water mixes of pancakes, cookies, or other mixes, cans of beans, chili, Spam, and other such items. Anything leftover will go to St. Anne’s food pantry.

Our first large monetary donation toward “Think Beyond The Can” was a generous gift from Women of the Moose #2447 (Appomattox)! The Library’s director spoke at the November’s Women of the Moose’s meeting about the important role the Library plays in community outreach, including to help offset food insecurities in Appomattox. We would like to thank these ladies for seeing the value of supporting the Library and this County through this much-needed local program of goodwill to help take care of our neighbors, families, and friends.

The winners of the “Don’t Fear the Reader” t-shirt raffle are Lisa Lizotte, Levi Caskey, and Cynthia Ford! We would like to congratulate them on being our winners. Throughout the year the Library likes to offer free raffles for our patrons as a fun way to keep our patrons engaged in their local Library. Watch us Grow!

It was Teen Craft Day on Tuesday, October 28th, Library Fairy MaKayla challenged the teens to make Lego haunted house builds, while enjoying snacks. We are always looking to expand our programs and the minds of our patrons. If you would like to make a suggestion for a program or a topic for an existing program please feel free to tell us!

For the Wednesday, October 29th’s Story and Craft Time Library Fairy MaKayla rode in on her broom to introduce the book “Pete the Cat: Trick or Pete” by James Dean. Pumpkins, candy, and costumes! Follow Pete as he goes trick-or-treating from house to house and discovers what is waiting behind each door. The kids enjoyed decorating their own draw string backpacks into Halloween Trick or Treat bags.

On Thursday, October 30th, the Library was a guest vendor at the Appomattox Elementary School’s Fall Festival. Employees read books, did Halloween and Fall inspired crafts, handed out Library information, and gave away books and bubbles! We love doing community outreach and highlighting all the services we offer.

It’s a ghost, it’s a ghoul, it’s a goblin! No, it’s Methodist Daycare trick or treaters coming down Main Street and making a stop at the Library! This annual tradition of kids in costumes livening up downtown is always a welcome sight. The Library staff looks forward every year to being able to pass out treats and be a part of the fun!

In observation of Election Day, the Library will be closed on Tuesday, November 4th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, November 5th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

In observation of Veterans Day, the Library will be closed on Tuesday, November 11th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, November 12th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

In observation of the Thanksgiving Holiday the Library will be closed from Wednesday, November 26th, through Friday, November 28th. We will reopen normal business hours on Saturday, November 29th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items; we would like to highlight the following:
```
DVDs
    Sleeping Beauty (Walt Disney)
    Pets / Pets 2
    Green and Gold
    Fly Away Home
    Wicked
    Dog Man
    Sneaks
```
Community Calendar

November 3rd, Monday– GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign up for classes to earn your GED.

November 4th, Tuesday – Library Closed in observance of Election day.

November 5th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 6th, Thursday – United Healthcare presents a 2026 Medicare Informational meeting at the Jamerson Library from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm to discuss the upcoming changes in Medicare.

November 10th, Monday – Bonnet Stitchers will meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 10:00 am. Anyone interested in sharing or learning a skill like crocheting, knitting, quilting, needlework, sewing, or other related hobbies is encouraged to attend. Enjoy good company while sharing patterns, exchanging ideas, learning new projects, or teaching others. This meeting is open to anyone willing to teach or learn, yes gentleman, this includes you too!

November 11th, Tuesday – Library Closed in observance of Veterans Day.

November 12, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 12th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Christmas Photos from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the community room. Family, friends, and small groups, bring your cameras or phones to have your photos taken against a Christmas fireplace backdrop surrounded by a Christmas tree and other props. Well-behaved pets are welcome but must be kept in a crate or on leash until your scheduled appointment. Perfect for cards, screensavers, mugs, mouse pads, and more! A staff member will take photos. If you do not have a phone/camera, we will take pictures on your behalf and email them to you. Please call the Library at 434.352.5340 to reserve your time slot as appointment times are limited.

November 12th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club in the Library’s community room starting at 3:30 pm. This month’s book is “The Lake” by Natasha Preston. Esme and Kayla were once campers at Camp Pine Lake. Now they’re back as counselors-in-training. Esme and Kayla did something terrible when they were campers, a secret they had kept all these years. They get a message: The lake never forgets. The secret they’ve kept buried for so many years is about to resurface. Patrons 13 – 19 years of age can find out more by picking up a copy and joining us for the Teen Book Club.

November 13th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

November 13th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Book Club for Adults will meet in the Library’s community room at 5:30 pm. This month’s book is “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce. Meet Harold Fry, recently retired. He lives in a small English village with his wife, Maureen, who seems irritated by almost everything he does, even down to how he butters his toast. Little differentiates one day from the next. Then one morning the mail arrives, and within the stack of quotidian minutiae is a letter addressed to Harold in a shaky scrawl from a woman he hasn’t seen or heard from in twenty years. Patrons 18+ years of age can find out more by picking up a copy and joining us for the Jamerson Library’s Book Club for Adults.

November 15th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults starting at 11:00 am in the community room. This month we will be introducing patrons 18+ years of age the art of scrapbooking and junk journaling. Just in time for the upcoming holidays, learn how to turn your photos and memorabilia into fun and crafty pages using fancy papers, stickers, glue, punches, and other embellishments to create your very own photo album / junk journal. You must be registered at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ to attend.

November 17th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

November 18th, Tuesday – United Healthcare presents a 2026 Medicare Information meeting at the Jamerson Library from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm to discuss the upcoming changes in Medicare.

November 18th, Tuesday – Library Board to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 4:00 pm. These meetings are open to the public; this month the board will be accepting public comments and concerns.

November 19th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 19th, Wednesday – Humana Medicare Educational Seminar at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 5:30 pm. Calling all seniors who may be effected by the 2026 changes in Medicare. Get your questions answered and receive important information that may effect your future Medicare benefits.

November 20th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s After School Crafts With MaKayla (Bad Art, Thanksgiving Edition) in the Library’s community room starting at 4:00 pm. This month’s Bad Art challenge will be to create a turkey with a selection of traditional and unique supplies.

November 20th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Family Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the Library’s community room. This movie is inspired by a short story about a high-society woman in late-1800’s New York. When her estranged daughter becomes ill and is too proud to ask her mother for assistance, the granddaughter takes it upon herself to contact her grandmother and plead for help. Upon the daughter’s arrival, it causes an upheaval in many lives but may also lead to reconciliation within the family.

November 22nd, Saturday – Jamerson Library Christmas Photos from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm in the community room. Family, friends and small groups bring your cameras or phones to have your photos taken against a Christmas fireplace backdrop surrounded by a Christmas tree and other props. Well-behaved pets are welcome but must be kept in a crate or on leash until your scheduled appointment. Perfect for cards, screensavers, mugs, mouse pads and more! Photos will be taken by a staff member, if you do not have a phone / camera we will take photos on your behalf, and email them to you. Please call the Library at 434.352.5340 to reserve your time slot as appointment times are limited.

November 24th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

November 26th, Wednesday – The Library will be closing at 12:00 pm in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. There will be no Story & Craft Tim on this day.

November 27th, Thursday to November 28, Friday the Library will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.
November 4, 2025
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library Launches “Think Beyond the Can” Holiday Food Drive

APPOMATTOX, VA — The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library is launching its “Think Beyond the Can” community support initiative, a Meal in a Bag donation drive to assist local families during the holiday season.

As the holidays approach, the library is inviting community members to help ensure that every family in Appomattox has access to warm, nourishing meals. The initiative reflects the library’s ongoing commitment to serving as more than a repository of books—it is a vital community hub dedicated to supporting neighbors in need.

How to Participate:
The library will be providing gallon-sized zipper bags with recipe cards to make participation simple and accessible. Community members can pick up bags at the library, fill them with the suggested ingredients, and return them during regular operating hours. Completed Meal in a Bag kits will be distributed to households throughout the community.

Sample recipes and suggested items are available on the library’s website at www.jrjml.org/tbtc.

Why It Matters:
In light of recent events and ongoing food insecurity challenges facing families in the region, the “Think Beyond the Can” initiative provides a meaningful opportunity for community members to make a direct impact on their neighbors’ lives during the holiday season.

“Libraries have always been about more than just books,” said Cindy Scheu. “At JRJML, we believe in building community—supporting each other and creating opportunities for connection. With ‘Think Beyond the Can,’ we’re inviting everyone to join us in helping our neighbors and strengthening our community. Together, we’re stronger.”

About J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library:
Located at 157 Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library serves as a vibrant community center offering free public access to collections, digital resources, programs, and meeting spaces. The library provides programming for all ages, including story times, teen activities, adult creative classes, and STEAM programs. JRJML is committed to lifelong learning, civic engagement, and community wellbeing.

Donation Information:
Donations may be delivered to the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library at 157 Main Street, Appomattox, VA 24522 during regular operating hours. For more information, call (434) 352-5340 or visit www.jrjml.org/tbtc.

October 30, 2025
As the Page Turns

November comes from the Latin word novem, “nine,” because this had been the ninth month in the early Roman calendar. Although it is our eleventh month, the name has never changed. November’s birthstone is the yellow topaz, and the flower is the chrysanthemum. Some observances in November are: Adopt A Senior Pet Month, American Indian Heritage Month, Banana Pudding Lovers Month, National Diabetes Month, National Family Literacy Month, and World Vegan Month just to name a few.

With the current circumstances across the country, the Library is asking patrons to “Think Beyond the Can.” The Library is asking patrons to consider putting together Dollar Tree Pantry Meals, and provide shelf-stable items like milk, bags of beans and rice, boxed meals, potato and rice mixes, peanut butter, jelly, just add water mixes, canned and pouch meats, birthday cake boxes, and other creative ideas to ensure that local families in need are taken care of during these economically challenging times. We will be listing resources, creative ideas, website links, and other information in the upcoming weeks on our own website, and other social media accounts. You can visit 211 Virginia at: https://211virginia.org/ to get connected for extra help. Blue Ridge Area Food Bank is at https://foodfinder.brafb.org/ to seek more help. Dollar Tree Pantry Meals are at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26y9Jyy2xQc for some creative ways to cook or donate at the Library. The Library will be printing recipes from the Dollar Tree Pantry Meals for patrons to pick up so that they can shop, pack, add the recipe card, and donate directly to us for redistribution.

It was BIGFOOT week at the Library! Patrons had the opportunity to get their photo taken at the Bigfoot photo booth and pick up craft projects and activity sheets. Bigfoot’s footprints were found throughout the Library, including the large print section.

Craig York, voice actor and Library employee, presented a reading of the classic tale “The Cask of Amontillado,” a short story by Edgar Allen Poe on Tuesday, October 21st. This was the last of a three-part series to introduce haunting tales by this famous American writer, poet, editor and literary critic.

Getting into the spirit of Halloween! For Wednesday, October 22nd’s Family Story & Craft Time an employee read the book “My Monsterpiece” by Amalia Hoffman. What’s the SCARIEST, MEANEST, most TERRIBLE monster you can imagine? The kids enjoyed making their own artistic interpretation of a monster using precut monster parts, googly eyes, glue, glitter and other embellishments while enjoying snacks. Everyone family who showed up received a hardback copy of the book to take home! Our next Story & Craft Time will be on Wednesday, October 29th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

Also, on Wednesday, the Library hosted their Cookbook Book Club featuring the theme almost homemade. Library employee Katharine Bloodworth introduced her copy of the book “Almost Homemade” by Gooseberry Patch. Her recipes including green bean salad and crescent chive rolls. Patrons were given the opportunity to talk about their own cookbooks, sample each other’s dishes, and exchange recipes. Due to holiday observances and closings, the staff will be taking a break from Cookbook Book Club until next spring. If you are interested in being emailed reminders about upcoming Cookbook Book Club meetings please email Katharine at [email protected] .

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and on Thursday, October 23rd, a witness advocate from the County office was at the Jamerson Library to offer information and resources on domestic violence and advocacy information.

On Thursday, Library Fairy MaKayla traded in her fairy wings for bat wings for the After School Crafts with MaKayla. This month’s Bad Art theme was “Haunted House,” the kids enjoyed snacks while creating spooky houses using a variety of craft supplies.

Again, on Thursday, ACLA (Appomattox County Library Association) held their first meeting, this was a casual gathering to see if there was any interest in re-establishing volunteers and fundraising on behalf of the Library. ACLA was established in 1999 as a 501(c)(3) friends of the library style group with a mission statement of fundraising, providing volunteers, applying for grants and making special purchases for this Library. ACLA is a separate entity from Library Board. ACLA is its own organization, with its own board, for the purpose of supporting the Library under their own mission statement. If you are interested in joining ACLA please email Jenny at [email protected] .

On Saturday, October 25th the Library Director and an employee were guest vendors at the American Museum of the Civil War’s Fall Festival. They had fun passing out free books, bubbles, coloring sheets, craft projects, the latest Library newsletter, and other library-related information.

Don’t fear the reader raffle, or the Library staff! For the past several weeks you may have noticed Library staff walking around with “Don’t Fear The Reader” t-shirts. We love these t-shirts so much that we are hosting a free raffle to win one of these shirts. We will announce the winners on Thursday, October 30th. It is one chance per patron, per visit.

In observation of Election Day, the Library will be closed on Tuesday, November 4th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, November 5th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

In observation of Veterans Day, the Library will be closed on Tuesday, November 11th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, November 12th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

In observation of the Thanksgiving Holiday the Library will be closed from Wednesday, November 26th, through Friday, November 28th. We will reopen normal business hours on Saturday, November 29th, starting at 9:30 am. The book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open.

If you have any questions or concerns about this article or other library-related topics, please feel free to call us during normal business hours.

Article / Photo Submitted by
Katharine G. Bloodworth
Assistant Director
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

Community Calendar

October 27th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

October 27th, Monday – Legal Aid at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm. Representatives from Virginia Legal Aid Society will present information about common legal issues, including general guidelines, applicable eligibility, and helpful tools.

October 28th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Crafts for patrons 13 – 19 years of age, starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. We will be featuring Halloween and fall-themed craft projects and serving snacks!

October 29th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

October 30th, Thursday – Library to be a guest vendor at the Elementary School’s Fall Festival from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Stop by our booth from the latest edition of the Library’s newsletter and other Library information, a craft project, activities sheets and more.

November 3rd, Monday– GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign up for classes to earn your GED.

November 4th, Tuesday – Library Closed in observance of Election day.

November 5th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 6th, Thursday – United Healthcare presents a 2026 Medicare Informational meeting at the Jamerson Library from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm to discuss the upcoming changes in Medicare.

November 10th, Monday – Bonnet Stitchers will meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 10:00 am. Anyone interested in sharing or learning a skill like crocheting, knitting, quilting, needlework, sewing, or other related hobbies is encouraged to attend. Enjoy good company while sharing patterns, exchanging ideas, learning new projects, or teaching others. This meeting is open to anyone willing to teach or learn, yes gentleman, this includes you too!

November 11th, Tuesday – Library Closed in observance of Veterans Day.

November 12, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 12th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Christmas Photos from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the community room. Family, friends, and small groups, bring your cameras or phones to have your photos taken against a Christmas fireplace backdrop surrounded by a Christmas tree and other props. Well-behaved pets are welcome but must be kept in a crate or on leash until your scheduled appointment. Perfect for cards, screensavers, mugs, mouse pads, and more! A staff member will take photos. If you do not have a phone/camera, we will take pictures on your behalf and email them to you. Please call the Library at 434.352.5340 to reserve your time slot as appointment times are limited.

November 12th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club in the Library’s community room starting at 3:30 pm. This month’s book is “The Lake” by Natasha Preston. Esme and Kayla were once campers at Camp Pine Lake. Now they’re back as counselors-in-training. Esme and Kayla did something terrible when they were campers, a secret they had kept all these years. They get a message: The lake never forgets. The secret they’ve kept buried for so many years is about to resurface. Patrons 13 – 19 years of age can find out more by picking up a copy and joining us for the Teen Book Club.

November 13th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Girls Who Code is a club designed to help young women learn about science, technology, engineering and math and how they integrate into their everyday lives. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

November 13th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Book Club for Adults will meet in the Library’s community room at 5:30 pm. This month’s book is “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce. Meet Harold Fry, recently retired. He lives in a small English village with his wife, Maureen, who seems irritated by almost everything he does, even down to how he butters his toast. Little differentiates one day from the next. Then one morning the mail arrives, and within the stack of quotidian minutiae is a letter addressed to Harold in a shaky scrawl from a woman he hasn’t seen or heard from in twenty years. Patrons 18+ years of age can find out more by picking up a copy and joining us for the Jamerson Library’s Book Club for Adults.

November 15th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults starting at 11:00 am in the community room. This month we will be introducing patrons 18+ years of age the art of scrapbooking and junk journaling. Just in time for the upcoming holidays, learn how to turn your photos and memorabilia into fun and crafty pages using fancy papers, stickers, glue, punches, and other embellishments to create your very own photo album / junk journal. You must be registered at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ to attend.

November 17th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

November 18th, Tuesday – United Healthcare presents a 2026 Medicare Information meeting at the Jamerson Library from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm to discuss the upcoming changes in Medicare.

November 18th, Tuesday – Library Board to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 4:00 pm. These meetings are open to the public; this month the board will be accepting public comments and concerns.

November 19th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. The Library will feature an age-appropriate book followed by a simple craft project and snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

November 19th, Wednesday – Humana Medicare Educational Seminar at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 5:30 pm. Calling all seniors who may be effected by the 2026 changes in Medicare. Get your questions answered and receive important information that may affect your future Medicare benefits.

November 20th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s After School Crafts With MaKayla (Bad Art, Thanksgiving Edition) in the Library’s community room starting at 4:00 pm. This month’s Bad Art challenge will be to create a turkey with a selection of traditional and unique supplies.

November 20th, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Family Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the Library’s community room. This movie is inspired by a short story about a high-society woman in late-1800’s New York. When her estranged daughter becomes ill and is too proud to ask her mother for assistance, the granddaughter takes it upon herself to contact her grandmother and plead for help. Upon the daughter’s arrival, it causes an upheaval in many lives but may also lead to reconciliation within the family.

November 22nd, Saturday – Jamerson Library Christmas Photos from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm in the community room. Family, friends and small groups bring your cameras or phones to have your photos taken against a Christmas fireplace backdrop surrounded by a Christmas tree and other props. Well-behaved pets are welcome but must be kept in a crate or on leash until your scheduled appointment. Perfect for cards, screensavers, mugs, mouse pads and more! Photos will be taken by a staff member, if you do not have a phone / camera we will take photos on your behalf, and email them to you. Please call the Library at 434.352.5340 to reserve your time slot as appointment times are limited.

November 24th, Monday – GED Outreach @ the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. From 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Doriane Mills from the Adult Learning Center will be at the Library to answer your questions and help you sign-up for classes to earn your GED.

November 26th, Wednesday to November 28, Friday – the Library will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

October 28, 2025