Appomattox Times – CMS

Author: kbloodworth

  • As The Page Turns 6/30/25

    As The Page Turns 6/30/25

    July is named to honor Roman dictator Julius Caesar. In 46 BC, he made one of his greatest contributions to history: With the help of Sosigenes, he developed the Julian calendar, the precursor to the Gregorian calendar that we use today. July’s birthstone is the ruby, and the flower is the sunflower. Some observances in July are: Fireworks Safety Month, Get Ready For Kindergarten Month, National Grilling Month, Tour de France Month, National Zoo Keeper Week (20th-26th), Made In The USA Day (2nd), Fourth of July or Independence Day (4th), Make Your Own Sundae Day (11th), World Orca Day (14th), Fortune Cookie Day (20th), Buffalo Soldiers Day (28th) and Global Tiger Day (29th).

    Since July’s flower is the sunflower it would be the perfect time to stop by the library and get a pack of sunflower seeds from our seed library! Each household will be able to request up to 3 packets of seeds/bulbs/bareroots per week, when available. Grow with us by growing some sunflowers! Each packet will contain either a single kind or a mix of bulbs, bareroots, vegetables, herbs, wildflowers, decorative flowers, plants, and more.

    It is predicted that for the next several weeks that central Virginia will face near record highs. We encourage you to come to the Library as a safe and cool space to hang out with your family and friends. We have puzzles, computers, board games, an interactive table, coloring books and crayons, crafts, magazines and more for you to enjoy. For patrons without air conditioning it is important that you stay cool during this heatwave.

    Looking for something new to do? Check out our many “special checkout” items. These “special checkout” items may include, but are not limited to, equipment, books, tools, DVDs, devices, and other materials that can be checked out under one barcode. You are allowed one “special checkout” at any given time for 1 week with 1 renewal (if the item is not on hold) to patrons 18 years of age or older with a library account in good standing. Some “special checkout” items may come with a limited quantity of supplies for patrons to use, such as paper, yarn, thread, or other materials, as a courtesy, and only when supplies are available.

    On Tuesday, June 24th Library Fairy and employee MaKayla introduced the book “Be A Maker” by Katey Howes. Rhyme, repetition, and a few seemingly straightforward questions engage young readers in a discussion about the many things we make―and the ways we can make a difference in the world. This simple, layered story celebrates creativity through beautiful rhyming verse and vibrant illustrations with a timely message. Patrons became architects and contractors by creating blueprints for their dream home designs using colored paper and Legos while enjoying snacks. If you are interested in “Be A Maker” it will be available for checkout soon.

    On Wednesday, June 25th the Library hosted a group of adults that needed a safe and cool place to enjoy their lunch while on their outing. We welcomed them out of the heat and into our community room as a part of our outreach to better serve Appomattox and beyond.

    Also on Wednesday the Library hosted our Summer Reading Afternoon Matinee featuring a family-friendly movie about big changes brewing in the city. If our hero wants to save the city from a hostile takeover, he may have to drop the lone vigilante thing, try to work with others and maybe learn to lighten up.

    On Thursday, June 26th the Library hosted a private group for a movie about the soaring adventures of a 13-year-old girl and her estranged father who learn what family is all about when they adopt an orphaned flock of geese and teach them to fly! Yes, we served snacks! If your own group would like to have a private educational program, story, movie or craft time please feel free to contact us, we love community outreach!

    Also on Thursday the Library hosted our Summer Reading Story, Craft & Activity program. A Library employee introduced the book “Collaboration Station” by Shannon Olsen, a colorful picture book that’s all about working together as a TEAM at school! Kids played the roll of an inventor by drawing out designs and using k’nex building pieces to bring their creations to life, enjoyed snacks and played “stack attack” a building block inspired game. If you are interested in the book, it will be available for checkout soon.

    In observance of Independence Day, the Library will be closed on Friday, July 4th, and will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, July 5th, starting at 9:30 am. Our book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    Dunnnnn dun……. Dunnnnn dun…… dun dun dun dunnnnnn SHARK WEEK starts on Sunday, July 20th, and the Library loves to celebrate all positive things shark-related! Don’t forget to enter your name into our Shark Week Raffle! For patrons who earn prizes in our Summer Reading Program, special shark grab bags will be available starting Monday, July 21st.

    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 at 434.352.5340.

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

    The Library receives a steady supply of new and donated items, and would like to highlight the following titles:

        DVDs
        King Kong Triple Feature
        Madagascar
        Princess Bride

    Community Calendar

    July 1st, 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/.

    July 2nd, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog-painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    July 8th, Tuesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 9th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog-painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    July 9th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Summer Reading Family Story & Craft Time starting at 11:00 am in Abbitt Park. Join the Library for a family-friendly story with crafts and snacks. Alex the Crow is an artist, and his pigeon friends think his work belongs in the museum. But how will they get it there? With persistence and pigeonuity, the four friends hatch a plan to help their friend achieve his dream. The New York art world will never be the same! Each family will get to take home a copy of the book! Space is limited, you must be pre-registered for this event. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/kids-program-registration/ .

    July 9th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00pm in the Library’s community room. This movie is practically perfect in every way, about a famous nanny who flies out of the windy London skies and into the home of two mischievous children. With the help of a carefree chimney sweep this spirited nanny turns every chore into a game and every day into a ”Jolly Holiday”. Refreshments will be served.

    July 10th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 11th, Friday – Stanley and several members of the Jordan Baptist Youth Choir will be at the Library to demonstrate choir singing, harmony, and raise voices in unison to project the art of music starting at 1:00 pm.

    July 12th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Outlet Classes for Adults in the community room starting at 11:00 am. Calling all green thumbs, and those that don’t have a green thumb! Learn to make the viral “String of Pearls” beaded potted plant. This program is for adults 18 +, space is limited and you must be pre-registered. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult .

    July 14th, Monday – Sun Bonnet Sue Stitchers to 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 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!

    July 15th, Tuesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 16th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Family-Friendly Movie in the community room starting at 1:00 pm. An eleven-year-old orphan has one dream to go to Paris and become a dancer. Her best friend, an imaginative, exuberant boy with a passion for creating, has a dream of his own to become a famous inventor. In a leap of faith, they leave their orphanage in pursuit of their passions. But there’s a catch, to find out more you need to join us! Free refreshments will be served.

    July 17th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 17th, Thursday – Jamerson Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the Library’s community room. When a seaside community finds itself under attack by a dangerous great white shark, the town’s chief of police, a young marine biologist and a grizzled shark hunter embark on a desperate quest to destroy the beast before it strikes again. Free refreshments will be provided!

    July 18th, Friday – Dance Demo from Majestic Strength Dance Studio in Abbitt Park starting at 1:00 pm. Art is more than just paint! Join the Jamerson Memorial Library as they host a local dance studio for some smooth moves!

    July 22nd, Tuesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 23rd, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Family Friendly Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00 pm in the Library’s community room. All your favorite singing, dancing all-stars return in the definitive feel-good event of the year. The ever-optimistic koala and his cast have big dreams of staging their most dazzling show yet in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. Free refreshments!

    July 24th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 25th, Friday – Theater Workshop

    July 29th, Tuesday – Wave Goodbye to Summer – Dress to get wet and meet the Jamerson Memorial Library in Abbitt Park from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm for a splashing good time! This is a family-friendly event to bid summer adieu!

  • As The Page Turns

    The Library had another full week of Summer Reading fun! We hosted or participated in lots of events and programs! It is not too late to join us for a world of art and fun as we dive into the theme of “Color Our World”! We have lots of programs with a focus on art, photography, writing and storytelling, performance arts and more! This program is open to patrons 2 years of age and older. You must register and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally-friendly approach to this year’s recordkeeping. To register, download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participant by following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App. The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library is located on Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia. If you have any questions or are having difficulty logging on, come to the front desk with your cellphone/tablet, and a friendly staff member will be happy to help you.

    On Monday, June 16th, the Library hosted a Summer Reading book, craft and activity afternoon. Patrons enjoyed the book “Raindrops Roll” by April Pulley Sayre. Raindrops drop. They plop. They patter. They spatter. And in the process, they make the whole world feel fresh and new and clean. In this gorgeously photo-illustrated nonfiction picture book, celebrated author April Pulley Sayre sheds new light on the wonders of rain, from the beauty of a raindrop balanced on a leaf to the amazing, never-ending water cycle that keeps our planet in perfect ecological balance. This book is available for checkout. The kids enjoyed snacks while decorating popsicle stick picture frames by using gem, sequins, markers, and yarn.

    The Library hosted a private group for a special movie time with refreshments on Tuesday, June 16th. This is a regular part of our community outreach. If your own club, organization, small church group, or special clients need a safe place to meet for crafts, an educational class, or movie time please feel free to call the Library. We would be happy to work with you and make arrangements to host such an event.

    We didn’t let the heat stop us for the Kiva’s Automotive Story & Craft Time as we moved this outdoor program into our community room. Donna Preston read the book “Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks”. This beloved classic gives readers an exciting array of vehicles. From police cars and school buses to fire engines and motorcycles. Kiva’s Automotive provided the chips and juice while the kids colored vehicle coloring pages. Kiva’s donated the book to the Library and it will be available for checkout soon. If your business, organization or club is looking to host your own Story & Craft Time, please feel free to reach out to us, we love working with the community!

    Also on Wednesday, Library Fairy MaKayla presented the book “A Moment in Time” by Jennifer Butenas at the Summer Reading Story, Craft & Activity Time. We beat the heat by staying in our community room for a story in rhythm and rhyme about a family of four and their moment in time. It’s a balmy, summer Cape Cod day and this visiting family is savoring every moment. Experience the delight, the joy and exhilaration a mindful moment can bring! If you are interested in this book, it will be available for checkout soon. The kids made their own 3-D paper cameras embellished with crayons, rhinestones and yarn, while they enjoyed snacks and using hula hoops as “frames” for photos.

    On Friday, June 20th, the Library was a guest vendor at Appomattox For Equality’s Juneteenth celebration, “Building on the Promise for Freedom for All” at the Carver-Price Cultural Center. Library staff handed out ribbon dancers, Juneteenth bracelets, and bubbles to help celebrate one of our country’s newest and important federal holiday.

    On Saturday, June 21st, our Director Mrs. Cindy Scheu hosted the Creative Class for Adults in the community room. Blob Cats! Several patrons enjoyed learning how to turn splats of water, blobs of paint and paint scrapings into cats with watercolors, puff paint, spatulas, brushes, and markers in several different styles. Our next Creative Class for Adults will be on Saturday, July 12th, starting at 11:00 am. Calling all green thumbs, and those that don’t have a green thumb! Learn to make the viral “String of Pearls” beaded potted plant. This program is for adults 18 +, space is limited and you be pre-registered. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult .

    It is predicted that for the next several weeks central Virginia will face near record high heat. We encourage you to come to the Library as a safe and cool space to hang out with your family and friends. We have puzzles, computers, board games, an interactive table, coloring books and crayons, crafts, magazines and more for you to enjoy. For patrons without air conditioning it is important that you stay cool during this heatwave.

    In observance of Independence Day, the Library will be closed on Friday, July 4th, and will reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, July 5 starting at 9:30 am. Our book drop, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    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 at 434.352.5340.

  • As The Page Turns

    Pictured:
    Sue Hamlett being swallowed by Bruce
    the Shark
    as she shows off all the shark swag she donated for this year’s Shark Week Raffle!

    It is that time of the year again! Summer Reading and a jShark Week Raffle. Sue Hamlett loves Shark Week, and she loves sharing the fun of Shark Week with the Library! She has once again donated shark swag (as she calls it) so that the Library may host a Shark Week Raffle! For over a decade Mrs. Hamlett has been donating items for this annual and much-anticipated raffle. It is one entry per person per visit. We will announce the winners of the raffle on Thursday, July 17th, just in time for SHARK WEEK! In celebration of Shark Week the Library will have special Summer Reading Prizes that week!

    It is not to late to join us for a world of art and fun as we dive into the 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”! You must be registered and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally friendly approach to this year’s record keeping. To register download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participant by following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App.

    On Tuesday, June 10th it was about books, crafts and activities for an afternoon of fun. Library Fairy MaKayla introduced the book “A Dress With Pockets” written by Lily Murray and illustrated by Jenny Lovlie. Lucy and Aunt Augusta are dress shopping. And, at the Fabulous Fashion Store, there are dresses to suit just about everyone. There are fancy dresses, frilly dresses, stripy dresses, silly dresses, sun dresses, fun dresses, blue dresses, green… But Lucy doesn’t care about frills or lace. She wants a dress WITH POCKETS. And as she wades through the titchy dresses, witchy dresses, very, very itchy dresses, she starts to worry about where she’s going to put her leaves, and nettles, and delicate petals, her magical spells and beautiful shells… The hunt is on: will Lucy find the dress of her dreams? The kids accessorized the making a variety of pipe cleaner and pony bead bracelets, enjoyed outdoor activities, and enjoyed refreshments. This book is now available for checkout in the Library.

    On Wednesday, June 11th the Library hosted the first of our Family Summer Reading Story & Craft Times. MaKayla read the book “Picture Book By Dog” written by Michael Relth. A clever tale (or tail) about a dog’s journey from being lost to found — from shelter to home. . The kids enjoyed cupcakes and juice while creating a backpack homage of their favorite pet, using fabric markers, be it a cat, dog, snake, or a fantasy creature. Every family received a copy of the book to take home. Our next Family Summer Reading Story & Craft Time will be on Wednesday, July 9 starting at 11:00 am. You must be pre-registered to attend. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/kids-program-registration/ .

    On Wednesday June 11th the Library featured a Summer Reading Family-Friendly Movie about a colorful, modern-day fairytale filled with fashion, friends and fun! This famous fashion icon and her dog jet off to visit her aunt’s amazing fashion house in Paris, and much to her surprise it’s about to be shut down forever.

    On Thursday, June 12 the Library hosted a Summer Reading book, craft and activity afternoon. Patrons enjoyed the book “Mary Had a Little Glam” by Tammi Sauer. There’s a new glamour queen in town! Mary’s number one goal for her new year at school is to look absolutely fabulous. Mary learns that sometimes less is more in this fast-paced rhyming book full of fun and fashion. This book is available for checkout. The kids enjoyed snacks while creating hanging wall art using yarn, beads and a pencil.

    On Saturday, June 14th the Library was a guest vendor at James River State Park’s Batteaux & Banjos from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The rumors were true, Bigfoot stopped by for photos at the Library’s photo booth! The Library was asked to provided something pre civil war related, so we prepared whirligig kits using buttons and yarn. Whirligig toys, also known as buzzers or buzzsaws, have a history spanning centuries throughout various cultures. They are simple, spinning toys often made from readily available materials. They were also a popular toy in Colonial America, with examples being found in early American town and military camp sites. The Library also gave away children’s books, bubbles, craft projects, library-related materials and more. This Library loves community outreach and passing out information about all we offer.

    In observance of Juneteenth the Library will be closed on Thursday, June 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Friday, June 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    On Friday, June 20th the Library will be a guest vendor at the Appomattox For Equality’s Juneteenth celebration “Building on the Promise for Freedom for All”. Look for our blue tent at the Caver-Price Culture Center (426 Patricia Ann Lane, Appomattox) from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, Juneteenth bracelets, craft projects and more!

    Squirm the Bookworm continues to grow! Join the Jamerson Memorial Library and Appomattox Rocks in this fun and interactive community project by painting your rocks to add to Squirm! We encourage you to seal your rocks with a spray or paint-on sealant to help keep them looking colorful in the weather. Please take photos, but don’t take the rocks, and tag the Library and Appomattox Rocks on your social media pages! Even the Sunflowers a volunteer planted are starting to grow!

    In observance of Independence Day the Library will be closed on Friday, July 4, and well reopen for normal business hours on Saturday, July 5 starting at 9:30 am. Our bookdrop, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    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 at 434.352.5340.

  • As The Page Turns

    Squirm the bookwork is growing! Several patrons and fans of Appomattox Rocks (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1800802206849445) have been adding to our bookworm! The purpose of this fun community project to highlight the library, Appomattox rocks, Main Street, and provide a chance for locals to part in something that uplifts all of us. Be a part of it by adding a rock or two! We encourage you to seal your rocks with a spray or paint-on sealant to help keep them looking colorful in the weather. Please take photos and tag the Library and Appomattox Rocks on your social media pages!

    It is not to late to join us for a world of art and fun as we dive into the 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”! You must be registered and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally friendly approach to this year’s record keeping. To register download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participant by following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App.

    Photo – The redhead was caught red-handed putting her painted rock in our lava bed to help “Squirm the Bookworm” grow! Be a part of the fun and paint a rock to add to Squirm!

    On Monday, June 2nd we hosted a Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie in the community room. Patrons joined us for a family-friendly movie about a nine-year-old young lady who is a talented artist with a passion for horses, in this modern-day story about finding your voice!

    On Tuesday, June 3rd it was about books, crafts and activities for an afternoon of fun. Patrons enjoyed the book “Scribble Stones” by Diane Alber. This story starts off with a little stone who thinks he will be become something amazing but then soon realizes he had become a dull paper weight. He’s on a mission to become something greater and in the process meets scribble and splatter and they all come up a creative way to bring joy to thousands of people. `The kids embraced their artistic side by creating a “pop-up” painting, played outdoor games, and enjoyed snacks.

    The fun just didn’t stop, it was a great day for Fun & Craft Day in Abbitt Park on Wednesday, June 4th! A HUGE thank you to all the vendors, volunteers, and staff who showed up to help out! It is estimated that we had over 500 fair-goers attend to enjoy games, prizes, give-a-ways, educational displays, summer reading sign-ups, tie-dying, ice cream, lemonade, fire and rescue vehicles, and more! We have already started to post some of the photos taken by staff and volunteers. You can find them on our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/JamersonMemorialLibrary

    On Thursday, June 5 the Library hosted a Summer Reading book, craft and activity afternoon. Patrons enjoyed the book “Arlo Draws An Octopus” Written by Lori Mortensen. When Arlo decides to draw an octopus, he can’t help but think that maybe he’s just not an octopus drawer. His drawing has a head that looks like a hill and eight squiggly arms that look like roads. It’s an octopus disaster-piece! But just as Arlo vows to never draw an octopus again, he makes a discovery that changes his perspective about his drawing . . . and much more. The kids enjoyed snacks while creating their own story boards using paper bag to make books, and blowing dyed bubbles to create one of a kind art pieces.

    On Saturday, June 7th, the Library partied with the Town of Appomattox for their Centennial Celebration! We joined the Town in Courtland Festival Park for live music, a bounce house, food, and lots of family fun! We were under our blue tent to pass out the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, craft projects, and more! We have been a part of Appomattox since 1936 and have been located on Main Street since 1992. Rediscover what your local Library can do for you!

    On Saturday, June 14th the Library will continue our community outreach by being a guest vendor at the James River State Park’s Batteaux & Banjos from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Rumor has it Bigfoot is going to make an appearance! James River State Park is located at 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone Virginia, you will find us near the visitor’s center. Come get your photo with Bigfoot while the Library gives away children’s books, bubbles, craft projects, library-related materials and more.

    In observance of Juneteenth the Library will be closed on Thursday, June 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Friday, June 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    On Friday, June 20th the Library will be a guest vendor at the Appomattox For Equality’s Juneteenth celebration “Building on the Promise for Freedom for All”. Look for our blue tent at the Caver-Price Culture Center (426 Patricia Ann Lane, Appomattox) from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, Juneteenth bracelets, craft projects and more!

    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 at 434.352.5340.

    Article / Photo Submitted by

    Katharine G. Bloodworth

    Public Services Specialist

    J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

  • As The Page Turns: June 2, 2025

    Summer Reading has officially started! It is not to late to join us for a world of art and fun as we dive into the theme of “Color Our World”! We have 8 full weeks of programs with a focus on art, photography, writing and storytelling, performance arts and more! This program is open to patrons 2 years of age and older. You must register and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally friendly approach to this year’s record keeping. To register download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participant by following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App. The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library is located on Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia. If you have any questions or are having difficulty logging on, come to the front desk with your cellphone/tablet, and a friendly staff member will be happy to help you.

    Oh no, he’s back! With Summer Reading about to start Bruce the Great White Shark has come up the coast to swim about the juvenile section of the Library to hunt up more victims…. oh, we mean patrons to nibble on. He caught his first one! She had her ankle wrapped and just couldn’t run away in time! If you would like to help feed Bruce….we mean get your photo with this famous shark, bring your cameras or phones with you to the Library and strike a pose! Bruce will be at the Library until after shark week!

    For the Wednesday, May 28th’s Story & Craft Time, Library Fairy MaKayla read the book “The Very Hungry Caterpillars’ First Summer” from the World of Eric Carle. The rainy weather didn’t stop the kids from enjoying snacks while making summer themed foam characters of a beach ball, ice cream cone, kite or popcicle to create a summer scene using their imagination and crayons. The Library well be taking a break from our weekly Story & Craft Time as we prepare for Summer Reading, but don’t you worry, we have tons of programs, activities and events planned for June and July!

    May 28th was also Krabby Patty Day! The Library supplied gummy candy “krabby patties” as a way to remind patrons that we are an interesting and fun place to visit for books, movies, magazines, internet, free ebooks, kanopy (online streaming service) online magazines and universal classes! Check out our website at: www.jrjml.org for more information!

    It was all about fun for a private group of adults as we welcomed Crossroads for an afternoon of snacks, and creative expression while making spring and summer inspired crafts. We showed a last minute movie about a very green ogre who went on an adventure to rescue the feisty princess with the help of his loveable Donkey and to win back the deed to his swamp from a scheming Lord. If you have a small group that would like to have a private movie showing, craft time, or educational class please feel free to reach out the the Library, we would be happy to host an event for you in our community room.

    Join the Jamerson Memorial Library and Appomattox Rocks for a community project, Squirm the Bookworm! Watch us grow, and grow with us by painting a portion of this painted rock bookworm, to be housed in the Library’s lava rock garden. This fun and family-friendly project is to create beauty, art, eye-catching color, and to promote the Library and Main Street! Be a part of it by adding a rock or two! We encourage you to seal your rocks with a spray or paint-on sealant to help keep them looking colorful in the weather. Please take photos and tag the Library and Appomattox Rocks on your social media pages!

    Be a part of fun! On Wednesday, June 4th the Library will host our much-anticipated Fun & Craft Day in Abbitt Park from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. This fair-style event is a part of our 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”. There will be vendors, give-a-ways, games, craft projects, educational displays, photo booth and more! Be sure to mark your calendars and join us in this FREE family-friendly event brought to you by your local Library, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. Abbitt Park is located next to the Library on Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia. Be sure to bring a t-shirt, tote bag, bandana, scarf, or hair scrunchie for tye-dying! Washed, natural fibers like cotton will work best for tye-dying. Service animals welcome but please leave your pets at home.

    Come party with us at the Town of Appomattox’s Centennial Celebration! We will be joining the Town on Saturday, June 7th from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm in Courtland Festival Park for this commemoration! There will be live music, a bounce house, food and lots of family fun! Look for our blue tent to get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, a photo booth, craft projects and more! We have been a part of Appomattox since 1936 and on Main Street since 1992. Come rediscover what your local Library can do for you.

    On Saturday, June 14th the Library will continue our community outreach by being a guest vendor at the James River State Park’s Batteaux & Banjos from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Rumor has it Bigfoot is going to make an appearance! James River State Park is located at 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone Virginia, you will find us near the visitor’s center. Come get your photo with Bigfoot while the Library gives away children’s books, bubbles, craft projects, library-related materials and more.

    In observance of Juneteenth the Library will be closed on Thursday, June 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Friday, June 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    On Friday, June 20th the Library will be a guest vendor at the Appomattox For Equality’s Juneteenth celebration “Building on the Promise for Freedom for All”. Look for our blue tent at the Caver-Price Culture Center (426 Patricia Ann Lane, Appomattox) from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, Juneteenth bracelets, craft projects and more!

    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 at 434.352.5340.

    Article / Photo Submitted by

    Katharine G. Bloodworth

    Public Services Specialist

    J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

  • As The Page Turns: May 26, 2025

    Getting squirmy at the Library. Pictured is Library Director Mrs. Cindy Scheu holding up our “Squirm the Bookworm” sign at the future site for Squirm.

    June and the 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World” are just around the corner! June is named after the Roman goddess Juno, patroness of marriage and the well-being of women. It also comes from the Latin word juvenis meaning “young people.” June’s birthstone is the pearl, and the flower is the rose. Some observances in June are: Adopt A Shelter Cat Month, Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, Audiobook Appreciation Month, Dairy Month, National Ice Tea Month and National Zoo and Aquarium Month.

    Watch us grow! We have reached out to the online newspaper The Appomattox Times, and we have good news! We will be submitting our article “As The Page Turns” to help get the word out about Library happenings. You can find this quickly-growing online newspaper at: https://appomattoxtimes.goingblu.com/, or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556173151506.

    The Library’s monthly newsletter for Juneis now available in physical copy at our circulation desk, or on our website at: www.jrjml.org. On the right-hand side of the top of the homepage you will find a link titled Newsletter, which will provide you with a PDF copy you can read online or download and print out. The Library also has a June/July newsletter for our 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”. Be sure to pick up a copy of both!

    Sharing is caring! Thanks to a donation of hummingbird feeders from an anonymous patron, we are making progress on our ongoing pollinator program. We have added to feeding the hummingbirds by putting out a bird bath, a seed feeder, and a flat for peanuts and other larger items for the birds (and squirrels) to eat. Feeding the native birds is an important part of pollination propagation, and since we are all animal lovers, it is a win-win for our feathered friends, our patrons, and our staff! This, in addition to our seed library, checkout-able paper pot maker kit, and annual plant swaps are a very cool way to help native insects, birds and other species as we promote pollinators.

    For the Wednesday, May 21st, Story & Craft Time new Library employee Zoe read the book “I Don’t Want To Be A Frog” by Dev Petty. The kids jumped right in, enjoying a snack while working on several frog-related craft projects. Our last Jamerson Story & Craft Time before the start of the 2025 Summer Reading Program will be on Wednesday, May 25, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Don’t panic, we have lots of programs and events going on this summer for the whole family!

    On Thursday, May 22nd, the Library welcomed a private group for a movie time serving snacks! As 2:00 pm we showed the same movie for the Jamerson Retro After School movie.

    On Friday, May 23rd, Library Fairy MaKayla hosted her After School Program featuring Legos and snacks!

    Color Our World, the 2025 Summer Reading Program, will start on Monday, June 2nd! We will feature 8 full weeks of programs with a focus on art, photography, writing and storytelling, performance arts and more! This program is open to patrons 2 years of age and older. You must register and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally-friendly approach to this year’s recordkeeping. To register, download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participantby following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App. The J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library is located on Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia. If you have any questions or are having difficulty registering, come to the front desk with your cellphone/tablet, and a friendly staff member will be happy to help you.

    Join the Jamerson Memorial Library and Appomattox Rocks for a community project, Squirm the Bookworm! Watch us grow, and grow with us by painting a portion of this painted rock bookworm, to be housed in the Library’s lava rock garden. This fun and family-friendly project is to create beauty, art, eye-catching color, and to promote the Library and Main Street! Be a part of it by adding a rock or two! We encourage you to seal your rocks with a spray or paint-on sealant to help keep them looking colorful in the weather. Please take photos, but don’t take the rocks, and tag the Library and Appomattox Rocks on your social media pages!

    Be a part of fun! On Wednesday, June 4th, the Library will host our much-anticipated Fun & Craft Day in Abbitt Park from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. This fair-style event is a part of our 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”. There will be vendors, giveaways, games, craft projects, educational displays, photo booth and more! Be sure to mark your calendars and join us in this FREE family-friendly event brought to you by your local Library, the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. Abbitt Park is located next to the Library on Main Street in Appomattox, Virginia. Be sure to bring a t-shirt, tote bag, bandana, scarf, or hair scrunchie for tie-dying! Washed, natural fibers like cotton will work best for tie-dying. Service animals welcome but please leave your pets at home.

    Come party with us at the Town of Appomattox’s Centennial Celebration! We will be joining the Town on Saturday, June 7th, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm in Courtland Festival Park for this commemoration! There will be live music, a bounce house, food and lots of family fun! Look for our blue tent to get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, snap a photo in our photo booth, craft projects and more! We have been a part of Appomattox since 1936 and on Main Street since 1992. Come rediscover what your local Library can do for you.

    On Saturday, June 14th the Library will continue our community outreach by being a guest vendor at the James River State Park’s Batteaux & Banjos from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Rumor has it Bigfoot is going to make an appearance! James River State Park is located at 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone Virginia, you will find us near the visitor’s center.Come get your photo with Bigfoot while the Library gives away children’s books, bubbles, craft projects, library-related materials and more.

    In observance of Juneteenth the Library will be closed on Thursday, June 19th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Friday, June 20th, starting at 9:30 am. The book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    On Friday, June 20th the Library will be a guest vendor at the Appomattox For Equality’s Juneteenth celebration “Building on the Promise for Freedom for All”. Look for our blue tent at the Caver-Price Culture Center (426 Patricia Ann Lane, Appomattox) from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pmto get the latest edition of our newsletter, library-related information, bubbles, Juneteenth bracelets, craft projects and more!

    The Appomattox County Adult Learning Center will be taking a break from their GED outreach at the Library this summer, and will start back up in early fall. If you need information on GED or other services from the Adult Learning Center you are encouraged to visit their website at: https://www.acpsweb.net/o/acps/page/adult-ed .

    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 at 434.352.5340.

  • As The Page Turns – May 19, 2025

    As The Page Turns – May 19, 2025

    Watch us grow, and grow with us by participating in the Jamerson Seed Library! When available, each household will be able to request 3 packets of seeds/bulbs/bareroots per week. Each packet will contain either a single kind or a mix of bulbs, bareroots, vegetables, herbs, wildflowers, decorative flowers, plants, and more. If you would like to donate seeds/bulbs/bareroots you can drop them off anytime during normal business hours.

    Trot and Spot, the mobile book buses, sponsored by Appomattox Literacy Intervention Project (A.L.I.P.), a non-profit charitable organization which began in 1996 in order to promote literacy throughout Appomattox County, stopped for their last Spring Run stops at the Library on May 13th & 14th. Spot will return for the A.L.I.P Book Bus Summer Run on Wednesdays, June 4th, 11th, and the 25th, and July 2nd and 9th from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm.

    On the Wednesday, May 14th’s Story & Craft Time Library Fairy MaKayla introduced the book “How to Catch a Bookworm” by Alice Walstead and Cesar Samaniego. How do you catch a bookworm? All we know is that he hides where there are lots of books to read! The kids enjoyed snacks while making their own version of a bookworm! Our next Story & Craft Times will be on Wednesday, May 21st & 28th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm.

    For the Retro Jamerson Movie Night on Thursday, May 15th, we featured a film about a young swashbuckler who rescues the beautiful titled heroine from her sinister husband-to-be in a fun and fetching fairy tale for the whole family. We will be taking a break from Movie Night till this fall, as we have booked lots of events, including movies, for the 2025 Summer Reading Program.

    In observance of the Memorial Day Holiday the Library will be closed on Saturday, May 24th, and Monday, May 26th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, May 27th starting at 9:30 am. The book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

    Get ready to read!! The Library staff is getting ready for our quickly approaching 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”! We will launch this much-anticipated program on Monday, June 2nd! You must register and submit your reading logs online using Beanstack as we are taking a more environmentally friendly approach to this year’s record keeping. To register download the Beanstack App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Search for the Jamerson Library and sign up each participant by following the instructions and answering a few simple questions on the App. If you have any questions or are having difficulty logging on, come to the front desk with your cellphone/tablet, and a friendly staff member will be happy to help you.

    Be sure to keep up with the Library on our social media pages, our website (www.jrjml.org), our monthly newsletter, or the local online newspaper The Appomattox Times (https://appomattoxtimes.goingblu.com). We will be posting the latest information, upcoming events, special programs, Summer Reading news, fun links, educational information and more!

    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 at 434.352.5340.

    Article Submitted by

    Katharine G. Bloodworth

    Public Services Specialist

    J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

    Upcoming Events

    May 19th, Monday – GED Outreach at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. A representative 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.

    May 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.

    May 22nd, Thursday – Jamerson Library’s Retro After School Movie starting at 2:00 pm in the community room. A group of young misfits discover an ancient map and set out on an adventure to find a legendary pirate’s long-lost treasure. This movie is rated PG, free refreshments will be served.

    May 23rd, Friday – Jamerson Library’s After School Crafts starting at 2pm in the community room. Join Library Fairy MaKayla for crafts, fun, and snacks as we celebrate the end of the school year and the start of summer vacation!

    May 27, Tuesday – Parent Support Group to meet at the Jamerson Library starting at 6:30 pm. Are you the parent or legal guardian of a special needs child? Did you know that there is a support group for you in Appomattox? We will meet in the community room of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library (157 Main Street). For more information contact Alyssa Holland at [email protected].

    May 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.

    Monday, June 2nd – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00 pm in the community room. Join us for a family-friendly movie about a nine-year-old young lady who is a talented artist with a passion for horses, in this modern-day story about finding your voice! This is a heart-warming, empowering, and fun movie for anyone who has ever dreamed big. Snacks will be served.

    Tuesday, June 3rd – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 4th, Wednesday – Fun & Craft Day in Abbitt Park from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. Join the Jamerson Memorial Library for their annual Summer Reading Fair, there will be vendors offering educational, informational, and fun displays, games, bottled water, give-a-ways and more! Don’t forget to bring a t-shirt for tye-dying! Staff will be on hand to help you sign up for the 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”.

    June 4th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    June 5th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 9th, 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!

    June 10th, Tuesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 11th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    June 11th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00 pm in the community room. Join us for a family-friendly movie about a colorful, modern-day fairytale filled with fashion, friends and fun! This famous fashion icon and her dog jet off to visit her aunt’s amazing fashion house in Paris, and much to her surprise it’s about to be shut down forever. Snacks will be served.

    June 12th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 16th, Monday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 17th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00 pm in the community room. Join us for a family-friendly movie about a curious little money who always has the time to stop for a good picture with his friend. Snacks will be served.

    June 18th, Wednesday – Kiva Automotive to host a Jamerson Library Story & Craft Time in Abbitt Park starting at 11:00 am. Come join Donna as she reads a book about cars, of course! She will have a cool craft project and snacks provided by Kiva Automotive!

    June 18th, Wednesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 24th, Tuesday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    June 25th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Memorial Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    June 25th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Summer Reading Movie starting at 1:00 pm in the community room. Join us for a family-friendly movie about big changes brewing in the city, and if our hero wants to save the city from the villain’s hostile takeover, he may have to drop the lone vigilante thing, try to work with others and maybe, just maybe, learn to lighten up.

    June 26th, Thursday – Summer Reading Book, Craft & Activity at the Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 1:00 pm. Join the Library for a family-friendly book, a creative craft, and a fun activity with snacks!

    July 2nd, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.

    July 9th, Wednesday – Spot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library. Reading is “spot” on with the black and white dog painted bus named Spot! Spot will be in our parking lot from 11:25 am to 12:00 pm for kids preschool up through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at anytime.