Category: Uncategorized

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!

Junk Journals, Penny’s Posse and Community

The Library staff has put out another round of kitty-ducks aka Penny and her posse! The Library staff continues to hide kitty-ducks around town! Penny the Library’s orange kitty mascot along with her clowder of cats are hiding around town. If you find Penny or a member of her posse just return them to the Library and pick a Penny Pincher prize! All ages are welcome to become a member of the Penny Pinchers! You are allowed one prize per person while supplies or kitty-ducks last. We have purchased only so many kitty-ducks, and once they are gone and not returned to the Library the program will be over. If you find a kitty-duck keep the game going by returning it to the Library for prize! All returned kitty-ducks will be released back into the “wild” to be found and returned again, so more prizes can be won. These kitty-ducks will not be found inside stores or other buildings, but outside, so please be respectful when going on your kitty-duck hunt.

On Tuesday, September 16th the Library hosted local author Erin Noel for an introduction to junk journaling. The Library gave everyone a small blank journal, scrapbooking supplies, embellishments, stickers, glue sticks, and assorted papers to start their own journey of junk journaling, all in celebration of Library Card Month.

On Wednesday, September 17th the Library hosted their weekly Story & Craft Time. An employee read the book “Full of Fall” by April Pulley Sayer. Follow the transformation trees undergo in fall. This book takes readers through the leaves’ initial change from green to red, yellow, and orange, the shedding of the leaves, and the leaves crumbling as winter approaches. The kids enjoyed snacks while creating scratcher art leaves, and coloring a decorative acorn. Our next story & Craft Day will be on Wednesday, September 24th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm.

We had an amazing turn out of the “Beat Boredom with Board Games and Puzzles” program. Due to an early school release day on Wednesday, September 17th the Library welcomed kids of all ages to participate in a multitude of games and puzzles in our community room, complete with snacks.

Thanks to a generous grant from “Flight Path” the Library was able to host a retro style family-friendly movie night on Thursday, September 18th, with snacks. This movie follows the soaring adventure 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!

On Friday, September 19th the Library hosted a private craft, movie and snack time for a small group of adults that needed a safe place to visit for a few hours. They enjoyed making fall-themed items and watching a famous pirate movie in celebration of Talk Like A Pirate Day.

Well shiver me timbers, speaking of Talk Like a Pirate Day, Library patrons had a grand time taking photos at the pirate photo booth, and talking pirate-ise to earn popcorn and other pirate-related trinkets. This is just one of the ways this library brings joy to our patrons and making the Library the awesome place it is!

We would like to offer a huge thank you to the local American Legion Hall for inviting us to be a vendor at their chili and community day, the Library was given the opportunity to pass out Library information, our latest newsletter, bubbles and craft projects.

The Library loves being asked to be a guest vendor at different organizations’ outreach opportunities in the area. We will be at the Holliday Lake State Park’s Fall Festival on Saturday, September 27th, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will be hay rides, archery, crafts, an obstacle course, live animals, a scavenger hunt, prizes, live music, face painting and more. State park fees do apply for this event. Look for our blue tent for craft projects, a photo booth, the latest in Library information and events, and more!

It is that time of the year, time for the annual Jamerson Library Fall Plant Swap! To be held on Thursday, October 2nd, from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm in the Library’s community room. What is a plant swap? It is when you bring your extra or unwanted houseplants, seeds, bareroots, and cuttings to the Library and exchange them for new friends to take home. You must bring plants in order to take plants in a fair or generous exchange of greenery. There are just a few simple rules to follow:

• Plants must be free of diseases and infestations.
• No dead plants.
• Plants must be easy to transport (put in some sort of container, pots, cups, baggies with a wet paper towel).
• You must leave plants, to take plants, no taking plants without a fair or generous exchange.
• Bring your own totes, boxes, or crates for the swap to take selected plants home.

In observation of the Railroad Festival and Columbus Day, the Library will be closed to the public from Friday, October 10th, through Monday, October 13th. The book depository at the back of the building will also be closed during this time. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause our patrons. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, October 14th, starting at 9:30 am.

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
Assistant Director
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

Community Calendar

September 23rd, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 23, Tuesday – Teen Art at the Jamerson Library starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month will be Faux Stained Glass Art creations using pieces of cut glass, glue, and a pattern to make a bright piece of art. This program is for patrons 13 – 19 years of age.

September 23rd, Tuesday – Parent Support Group 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] .

September 24, 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.

September 24th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 24th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookbook Book Club. The Jamerson Library will host our “Cookbook Book Club” on Wednesday, September 23rd, starting at 6:00pm. Bring your favorite cookbook, recipe card or internet suggestion and make a dish to share. This month’s theme will be “Soup’s On”. Here are a few suggestions to consider: your favorite soup, some warm bread, or a family recipe. The Library will have plates / bowls, plastic ware and napkins, but you must bring your own serving utensils. This program is intended for adults, don’t forget to bring in copies of your recipe for others!

September 25th, Thursday – After School Crafts with MaKayla starting at 4:00 pm in the community room of the Jamerson Memorial Library. This event is open to all ages, join Library Fairy MaKayla in making an assortment of crafts and enjoy snacks. This month’s theme is “Messy Art”.

September 27th, Saturday – Royal Party in Abbitt Park! Calling all knights and princess of all ages you are invited to dress up and attend a gathering on the lawn to enjoy a photo booth, snacks, games and more from 10:30 am to 12:30pm! Free and open to everyone of all ages, this is a family-friendly event. Don’t forget your phones, cameras, crowns and shields!

September 27th, Saturday – Jamerson Library to be a guest vendor at the Holliday Lake State Park’s Fall Festival from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will be hayrides, archery, crafts, an obstacle course, live animals, a scavenger hunt, prizes, live music, face painting, and more. State park fees do apply for this event. Look for our blue tent for craft projects, a photo booth, the latest in Library information and events, and more!

September 30th, Tuesday –Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 1st, 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 1st, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 1st, Wednesday – Farmers Bank of Appomattox will be in the Jamerson Library’s community room starting at 3:00pm for a “Popular Bank Scams & How to Protect Yourself” seminar. We encourage anyone with a bank account to attend.

October 2nd, Thursday – Join the Jamerson Library for our annual Fall Plant Swap from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm in the community room. What is a plant swap? It is when you bring your extra or unwanted houseplants, seeds, bareroots, and cuttings to the Library and exchange them for new friends to take home. You must bring plants in order to take plants in a fair or generous exchange of greenery.

October 4th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults (18+) starting at 11:00 am in the community room. Reuse, recycle and repurpose tin cans and napkins into pretty planters! Library will include all supplies including freshly rooted plants! You must be pre-registered to attend. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ .

October 6, Monday – Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy at the Jamerson Library. A Witness Advocate from the County office will be in the Library’s community room from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm to offer support, resources, and a safe environment to report and seek help from domestic violence.

October 7th, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 7th, 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/.

October 8th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm in the community room. The Library will host author Kerri Rundstrom as she reads her book “Max and the Moo Mystery”! A playful and empowering book that helps kids understand what alpha-gal allergies are and help to build food confidence by becoming label-reading superheroes. The Library will service alpha-gal friendly snacks.

October 8th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 8th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Book Club at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month’s book will be the graphic novel “A Witch’s Guide to Burning” by Aminder Dhaliwal. A witch’s work is never done when she works for the people. With the success of her town relying on her magic, demands are high. But what happens when a witch can’t keep up with the magical requests? Scare up a good conversation and enjoy Halloween inspired snacks with us!

October 8th, Wednesday – Join the Robert E. Lee Water and Soil Conservation District at the Jamerson Library from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm to create a poster for the
National Association of Conversation District’s “Home is where the Habitat is“ contest! All supplies will be provided, the contest is open to public, private or home school students K – 12, girl scout/boy scout troops, etc. The Library will provide free snacks! For more information visit their website at https://vaswcd.org/poster-contest/

October 9th, Thursday – Girls Who Code at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00pm 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/.

October 9th, Thursday – Introducing the Jamerson Library’s Adult Book Club starting at 5:30 pm in the Library’s community room! This month’s book selection is “Beneath the Stones” by Susan Coryell. Mystery, suspense and romance flourish against a backdrop of Civil War turmoil and ancestral strife–where immortality infiltrates the ancient air breathed by all who inhabit Overhome Estate. 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.

October 14th, Tuesday – Jamerson Library Tween Steam starting at 4:00 pm in the community room. Become a “Mad Scientist” and perform a selection of experiments with Library Fairy MaKayla as she trades in her gossamer wings for a pair of dragon wings!

October 14th, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 14th, Tuesday – Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy at the Jamerson Library. A Witness Advocate from the County office will be in the Library’s community room from 9:30 am – 11:30 am to offer support, resources, and a safe environment to report and seek help from domestic violence.

October 15th, 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 15th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 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 any time.

October 15th, Wednesday – Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy at the Jamerson Library. A Witness Advocate from the County office will be in the Library’s community room from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm to offer support, resources, and a safe environment to report and seek help from domestic violence.

October 16th, Thursday – Chick Flick Retro Movie Night at the Jamerson Library starting at 6:00 pm. Grab your best friend and join us for faux midnight margaritas as we play a movie about two sisters who have always known they were different. Raised by their aunts after their parents’ death, the sisters grew up in a household that was anything but typical. This movie is rated PG–13.

October 20th, 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!

October 20th, 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.

October 21st, 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.

October 21st, Tuesday – Farmers Bank of Appomattox will be in the Jamerson Library’s community room starting at 5:00pm for a “Popular Bank Scams & How to Protect Yourself” seminar. We encourage anyone with a bank account to attend.

October 22nd, Wednesday – Family Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am. The Library will feature the book “My Monsterpiece” by Amalia Hoffman. Our craft project will be to build-a-monster followed by snacks. Everyone is welcome to attend with the understanding that this program is intended for preschool patrons.

October 22nd, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookbook Book Club starting at 6:00 pm in the community room. This month’s theme is “Almost Homemade”, recipes that use pre-made or store-bought convenience foods, which are then combined with a few fresh ingredients to save time and effort. This program is intended for adults. Bring your favorite cookbook, recipe card or internet suggestion and make a dish to share. The Library will have plates / bowls, plastic ware and napkins, but you must bring your own serving utensils. This program is intended for adults, don’t forget to bring in copies of your recipe for others!

October 23, Thursday – Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy at the Jamerson Library. A Witness Advocate from the County office will be in the Library’s community room from 9:30 am – 11:30 am to offer support, resources, and a safe environment to report and seek help from domestic violence.

October 23rd, Thursday – After school Crafts With MaKayla at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm. Meet us in the community room, this month’s theme is “Haunted Houses”, and yes, we will be serving snacks.

October 23rd, Thursday – ACLA Meeting at 6:00 pm in the Jamerson Library’s community room. The Appomattox County Library Association (ACLA) will have its first meeting to reactivate this important 501(c)(3) friends of the library-style organization. If you are interested in supporting your local library, we encourage you to attend.

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.

Penny Pincher Posse, Plants & Future Plans

Have you spotted Penny or a member of her posse yet? The Library staff has started hiding kitty-ducks around town! Penelope (aka Penny) and her posse of kitties (cat shaped rubber ducks) are cats about town! Penny the Library’s orange kitty mascot along with her clowder of cats are hiding around town. If you find Penny or a member of her posse just return them to the Library and pick a Penny Pincher prize! All ages are welcome to become a member of the Penny Pinchers! You are allowed one prize per person while supplies or kitty-ducks last. We have purchased only so many kitty-ducks, and once they are gone and not returned to the Library the program will be over. If you find a kitty-duck keep the game going by returning it to the Library for prize! All returned kitty-ducks will be released back into the “wild” to be found and returned again, so more prizes can be won. These kitty-ducks will not be found inside stores or other buildings, but outside, so please be respectful when going on your kitty-duck hunt.

On Tuesday, September 9th the Library welcomed Crossroads for a late morning adventure in rock painting, snacks and a movie. They generously left their sparkly rocks behind to help “Squirm the Bookworm” grow! Squirm is the painted rock participation project with Appomattox Rocks to see how long we can make this conversational artwork. Squirm located in the lava bed on the side of the Library. This private group of adults loves to meet at the Library for a safe and happy place of acceptance to enjoy an outing that includes movies, crafts, stories, and of course snacks! If you would like to book your own private program at the Library please feel free to reach out to us.

Tween STEAM on Tuesday, September 9th, MaKayla our new Youth Services Specialist, introduced the Library new micro world scientific microscope with preloaded sample slides that the kids had to guess which classification the sample fell under. The kids got to use the microscope to make comparisons of everyday objects with worksheets to compare their observations. Yes, of course we served snacks. The microscope, along with its slides will be available for checkout in the future as a STEM / STEAM makers kit.

On Wednesday, September 10th, the Library hosted Holliday Lake State Park’s Ranger Chance and Harold Holliday, the park’s resident red-eared slider turtle. Chance read the book “Chase the Moon, Tiny Turtle: A Hatching’s Daring Race to the Sea” by Kelly Jordan. We are aware this book is about a sea turtle and its race from the beach to the ocean, as Chance distinguished the similarities and differences between sea and land turtles. The kids enjoyed snacks while making drawstring backpacks to look like turtle shells, and a coloring project. Harold was the star of the show, allowing the kids to pet and scratch his shell with a brush.

Wednesday, Sept 10th the Library hosted its first Jamerson Teen Book Club featuring the graphic novel “Very Bad at Math” by Hope Larson. It was a light crowd, but those that attended enjoyed pizza and good conversation. The next Teen Book will be held on Wednesday, October 8th, starting at 3:30 pm in the community room, featuring another graphic novel “A Witch’s Guide to Burning” by Aminder Dhaliwal. A witch’s work is never done when she works for the people. With the success of her town relying on her magic, demands are high. But what happens when a witch can’t keep up with the magical requests? She is burnt, of course―in a cruel ritual that extinguishes her magic and erases all her memories, making her just like everybody else. But when a burning ceremony is interrupted by rain in Chamomile Valley, a witch is left writhing at the stake. It’s up to a witch doctor and her toad friend to save the singed witch and nurse her back to health. Can they help her before her magic is lost forever?

On Thursday Sept 11 – The new Girls Who Code Club met for the first time in the library 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. At this meeting we learned what an algorithm is and how we can use them in our everyday life to schedule our day. The Jamerson GWC club welcomes new members from 3rd grade to 12th grade please register at https://www.jrjml.org/girlswhocoderegistration/.

On Friday, September 12th the Library staff welcomed back Crossroads for a private movie and snack time. Once again we encourage you to contact us if your organization, club, or group wants to have their own private event.

On Saturday Sept 13 – At this month’s Creative Class for Adults we created faux stained-glass portraits of flowers, butterflies and cats. These wonderful pieces of art were created using clear glue, acrylic paint and frames. We offer a new craft to learn each month. If you would like to join us for our next session, please register at https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

The Library loves being asked to be a guest vendor at different organizations’ outreach opportunities in the area. This month we are attending two events. The first will be on Saturday, September 20th, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at the American Legion Hall’s Chili and Cheer Community day. Come out for a day of chili cook offs, craft vendors and family activities! This event is open to the public and admission is free! We will also be at the Holliday Lake State Park’s Fall Festival on Saturday, September 27th, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will be hay rides, archery, crafts, an obstacle course, live animals, a scavenger hunt, prizes, live music, face painting and more. State park fees do apply for this event. Look for our blue tent for craft projects, a photo booth, the latest in Library information and events, and more!

It is that time of the year, time for the annual Jamerson Library Fall Plant Swap! To be held on Thursday, October 2nd, from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm in the Library’s community room. What is a plant swap? It is when you bring your extra or unwanted houseplants, seeds, bareroots, and cuttings to the Library and exchange them for new friends to take home. You must bring plants in order to take plants in a fair or generous exchange of greenery. There are just a few simple rules to follow;

• Plants must be free of diseases and infestations.
• No dead plants.
• Plants must be easy to transport (put in some sort of container, pots, cups, baggies with a wet paper towel).
• You must leave plants, to take plants, no taking plants without a fair or generous exchange.
• Bring your own totes, boxes, or crates for the swap to take selected plants home.

In observation of the Railroad Festival and Columbus Day the Library will be closed to the public from Friday, October 10th through Monday, October 13th. The book depository at the back of the building will also be closed during this time. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause our patrons. We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, October 14th starting at 9:30 am.

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
Assistant Library Director
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

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

DVDs    
    Kung Fu Panda 4-Movie Collection
    Karate Kid – Legends
    The Young Messiah

Please Add to Community Calendar

September 16th, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 16th, Tuesday – Library Board to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 4:00 pm. These meeting are open the public, this month the board will be accepting public comments and concerns.

September 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.

September 17th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 17th, Wednesday – Board Games & Puzzles at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early school day the Library will be hosting a Beat Boredom with Board Games (& puzzles) afternoon, we will serve free snacks! Roll the dice, shuffle some cards, and skip across some fun with several interactive board games and puzzles with your friends!

September 18th, Thursday – Jamerson Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the community room. A family-friendly movie about the soaring adventure 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! Refreshments will be served, this movie is rated PG. This movie is brought to you in part by the Flight Path Grant.

September 19th, Friday – Talk Like A Pirate Day at the Jamerson Library. Stop by during normal business hours (9:30 am – 5:00 pm) and get your photo at our photo booth, earn some pirate booty and more! Don’t forget to bring your phone or camera. We encourage you to come dressed up or use some of our pirate photo props.

September 20th, Saturday – Library to be a guest vendor at the American Legion Hall’s Chili and Cheer Community Day from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Come out for a day of chili cook offs, craft vendors and family activities! This event is open to the public and admission is free!

September 23rd, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 23, Tuesday – Teen Art at the Jamerson Library starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month will be Faux Stained Glass Art creations using pieces of cut glass, glue, and a pattern to make a bright piece of art. This program is for patrons 13 – 19 years of age.

September 23rd, Tuesday – Parent Support Group 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] .

September 24, 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.

September 24th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

September 24th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookbook Book Club. The Jamerson Library will host our “Cookbook Book Club” on Wednesday, September 23rd, starting at 6:00pm. Bring your favorite cookbook, recipe card or internet suggestion and make a dish to share. This month’s theme will be “Soup’s On”. Here are a few suggestions to consider: your favorite soup, some warm bread, or a family recipe. The Library will have plates / bowls, plastic ware and napkins, but you must bring your own serving utensils. This program is intended for adults, don’t forget to bring in copies of your recipe for others!

September 25th, Thursday – After School Crafts with MaKayla starting at 4:00 pm in the community room of the Jamerson Memorial Library. This event is open to all ages, join Library Fairy MaKayla in making an assortment of crafts and enjoy snacks. This month’s theme is “Messy Art”. o

September 27th, Saturday – Royal Party in Abbitt Park! Calling all knights and princess of all ages you are invited to dress up and attend a gathering on the lawn to enjoy a photo booth, snacks, games and more from 10:30 am to 12:30pm! Free and open to everyone of all ages, this is a family-friendly event. Don’t forget your phones, cameras, crowns and shields!

September 27th, Saturday – Jamerson Library to be a guest vendor at the Holliday Lake State Park’s Fall Festival from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will be hayrides, archery, crafts, an obstacle course, live animals, a scavenger hunt, prizes, live music, face painting, and more. State park fees do apply for this event. Look for our blue tent for craft projects, a photo booth, the latest in Library information and events, and more!

September 30th, Tuesday –Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 1, 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 1st, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 2nd, Thursday – Join the Jamerson Library for our annual Fall Plant Swap from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm in the community room. What is a plant swap? It is when you bring your extra or unwanted houseplants, seeds, bareroots, and cuttings to the Library and exchange them for new friends to take home. You must bring plants in order to take plants in a fair or generous exchange of greenery.

October 4th, Saturday – Jamerson Library’s Creative Class for Adults (18+) starting at 11:00 am in the community room. Reuse, recycle and repurpose tin cans and napkins into pretty planters! Library will include all supplies including freshly rooted plants! You must be pre-registered to attend. You can register online at: https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration/ .

October 8th, Wednesday – Preschool Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm in the community room. The Library will host author Kerri Rundstrom as she reads her book “Max and the Moo Mystery”! A playful and empowering boo12:01 PMk that helps kids understand what alpha-gal allergies are, and to build food confidence, by becoming label-reading superheroes. The Library will service alpha-gal friendly snacks.

October 8th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 pm for kids from preschool through high school to borrow a book. You can return all Spot and Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 8, Wednesday – Teen Book Club at 3:30 pm in the community room of the Jamerson Library.

October 9, Thursday – Girls Who Code

October 14, Tuesday – Jamerson Library Tween Steam starting at 4:00 pm in the community room.

October 14, Tuesday – Something to neigh about! Trot the Book Bus to visit the Jamerson Library from 11:50 am to 12:45 pm. Preschool to high school kids are welcome to borrow a book from this horse-painted bookmobile. You can return Spot or Trot Book Bus books to the Library at any time.

October 15, 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 15th, 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 12:10 pm to 12:40 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 any time.

October 16, Thursday – Chick Flick Retro Movie Night at the Jamerson Library starting at 6:00pm.

October 20, Monday – Sun Bonnet Sue Stitchers (10 – 12)

October 21, Tuesday – United Health (10 – 12)

October 22, Wednesday – Family Story & Craft Time at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 11:00 am. 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 22, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookbook Book Club starting at 6:00 pm

October 23, Thursday – Afterschool Crafts With MaKayla at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00 pm. (Bad Art – Haunted Houses)

October 23rd, Thursday – ACLA Meeting at 6:00pm in the Jamerson Library’s community room. The Appomattox County Library Association (ACLA) will have their first meeting to reactivate this important 501(c)(3) friends of the library style organization. If you are interested in supporting your local library we encourage you to attend.

October 28, Tuesday – Jamerson Library’s Teen Crafts (13 – 19 years of age) starting at 3:30 pm in the community room.

October 29 – 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.

Streaming Service, Journey Journals, and Library Card Month

Get to know Kanopy at your local library! Kanopy is a free video-streaming platform dedicated to thoughtful and thought-provoking films. With Kanopy and a library card, you have a front row seat to 30,000 films without ads – Oscar winners, nominees, and cult classics – along with television and kids programming, all for no cost, brought to you by the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library. For more information you can visit our website at www.jrjml.org and click on the Kanopy link.

Your Library Journey Journal! Tell your story about what your local Library means to you, or your favorite story that happened involving the library in an adventure, junk, written or video journal highlighting your story or what your local library means to you. For every patron that submits a journal entry we will give you supplies to start a physical junk journal, turning an empty booklet, paper, stickers, ribbon, tape or other assorted items into a junk journal to help inspire the rest of your story! From now till the end of October, the Library will be accepting written, junk journal, electronic or video file entries. You can submit your entry via email ([email protected]) and use the subject line “Journal Journey”, or in person at the circulation desk. Please provide your name and contact information with your submissions.

We will start a social media campaign starting in September to help us celebrate our patrons and encourage others to get their own Library cards for Library Card Sign Up Month! Let your positive experience with us create stepping stones to others as we all journey toward a brighter future, together.

On Tuesday, August 19th the Library hosted Booke Gill from the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and Western Virginia for an introduction meeting on understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s. In Virginia, more than 164,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s. Whether it’s offering support to anyone facing Alzheimer’s, advocating for the needs and rights of those facing dementia, or advancing critical research, Alzheimer’s Association works toward methods of treatment, prevention, and ultimately, a cure.

For the Wednesday, August 20th’s Story & Craft Time, Library Fairy MaKayla was back in action by introducing the book “The Wild Robot on the Island” by Peter Brown. Roz is not where she’s supposed to be. You see, the robot wasn’t designed to live in the wilderness. But when she washes up on an island, she must learn from the animal inhabitants and adapt to her new, natural surroundings, and before long, the island begins to feel like home. The kids enjoyed snacks while using paper cups, googly eyes, assorted embellishments, and construction paper to make their own robots. If you are interested in the book, it is available for checkout or placing on hold. Our next Preschool Story & Craft Time will be on Wednesday, August 27th, starting at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend, with the understanding that this event is geared towards preschool-aged children.

On August 21st the Library hosted Richard Harwood, President and Founder of the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation. The Library hosted Mr. Harwood for two meetings. The first for Library staff and the second for an open public meeting. The Harwood Approach is being used in libraries and communities across the country to prove Americans have the will and ability to come together amide real divides and build communities that work for all. The Library invited local government officials and leaders to meet Richard and provided a free copy of the Mr. Harwood’s book “The New Civil Path” to each participant. Library’s play an important role in their community serving as stewards to local history and culture, to patron’s mental well-being, entertainment and educational needs, and so much more. If you are interested in Mr. Harwood’s latest book it is available for checkout at this Library. If you would like to find out more about the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation please visit their website at: https://theharwoodinstitute.org/

On Thursday, August 21st, the library hosted their monthly Retro Movie Night, a family-friendly film about a young boy who borrows a mysterious, ornately bound book, he never dreamed that turning a page would draw him into a shimmering fantasy world of racing snails, hang-glider bats, soaring luckdragons, puckish elves, a Childlike Empress, a brave warrior and a slab-faced walking quarry. Our next Retro Movie Night will be on Thursday, September 18th starting at 6:00pm.

We love community outreach and on Saturday, August 23rd the Library was a guest vendor at the Wolfswood Faire hosted by Wolfbane Productions. This annual renaissance-style faire was a fun filled day of medieval games, sword fights, live performances, music, and dancing. The Library passed out bubbles, ribbon dancers, and Library-related information, newsletters and more! Staff invited festival goers to take photos at Wolfbane’s castle photo booth with our bubble machine.

In observance of the Labor Day holiday the Jamerson Memorial Library will be closed on Monday, September 1st. We will reopen normal business hours on Tuesday, September 2nd, starting at 9:30 am. The Library’s book depository, located at the back of the building, will remain open during this time.

We are just over a week away! Starting on Tuesday, September 2nd we will start the Penny Pincher Posse! Find a penny pick it up, all day long have good luck! Penelope (aka Penny) and her posse of kitties (cat shaped rubber ducks) are cats about town! Penny the Library’s orange kitty mascot along with her clowder of cats will be hiding around town starting in September. If you find Penny or a member of her posse just return them to the Library and pick a Penny Pincher prize! All ages are welcome to become a member of the Penny Pinchers! We have purchased only so many kittens (cat shaped rubber ducks) and once they are gone and not returned to the Library the program will be over. If you find a kitty keep the game going by returning it to the Library for prize! All returned kitties will be released back into the “wild” to be found and returned again so more prizes can be won.

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
Assistant Library Director
J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library

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

DVDs

• Casper
• Knuckles
• Nanny McPhee/Nanny McPhee Returns
• The Wild Robot
• The Gruffalo
• Lilo & Stitch
• The King and I
• Fiddler on the Roof
• Sonic the Hedgehog 3
• My Fair Lady

Community Calendar

August 26th, Tuesday – Parent Support Group 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] .

August 27th, 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.

September 2nd, Tuesday – PEATC (Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center) to be at the Jamerson Memorial 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/.

September 3rd, 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.

September 8th, Monday – Sun Bonnet Sue Stitchers to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Lib4rary 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!

September 9th, Tuesday – Tween STEAM(science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) Program at the Jamerson Library starting at 4:00pm. All are welcome with the understanding that this program is for elementary and tween aged students. This month’s theme will be “Micro World”, we will be using a digital microscope to explore the world around us.

September 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.

September 10th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library Teen Book Club starting at 3:30 pm in the Library’s community room. This month we will feature the graphic novel “Very Bad At Math” by Hope Larson, a New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award–winning author. This graphic novel is full of hijinks, unexpected friendships, and pizza, so of course we will serve pizza for this event! We have several copies of this book available for checkout. Grab your friends, grab a copy of the book, grab a slice of pizza and make plans to attend!

September 11th, Thursday – Girls Who Code starting at 4:00 pm in the Jamerson Library’s community room. Girls Who Code Girls is a gaming experience that empowers users to code characters that better reflect them and the diversity of their communities. Snacks will be served!

September 13th, Saturday – Creative Class for Adults (18+) starting at 11:00 am in the community room of the Jamerson Memorial Library. Turn aluminum foil, a glass photo frame and permanent markers into a foil faux stained-glass piece of art. Please register at https://www.jrjml.org/adult-program-registration.

September 16th, Tuesday – Library Board to meet at the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library starting at 4:00 pm. These meeting are open to the public; this month the board will be accepting public comments and concerns.

September 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.

September 17th, Wednesday – Board Games & Puzzles at the Jamerson Library from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the community room. Due to an early school day, the Library will be hosting a Beat Boredom with Board Games (& puzzles) afternoon, we will serve free snacks! Roll the dice, shuffle some cards, and skip across some fun with several interactive board games and puzzles with your friends!

September 18th, Thursday – Jamerson Retro Movie Night starting at 6:00 pm in the community room. A family-friendly movie about the soaring adventure 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! Refreshments will be served, this movie is rated PG. This movie is brought to you in part by the Flight Path Grant.

September 19th, Friday – Talk Like A Pirate Day at the Jamerson Library. Stop by during normal business hours (9:30 am – 5:00 pm) and get your photo at our photo booth, earn some pirate booty and more! Don’t forget to bring your phone or camera. We encourage you to come dressed up or use some of our pirate photo props.

September 23rd, Tuesday – Teen Art at the Jamerson Library starting at 3:30 pm in the community room. This month will be Faux Stained Glass Art creations using pieces of cut glass, glue, and a pattern to make a bright piece of art. This program is for patrons 13 – 19 years of age.

September 23rd, Tuesday – Parent Support Group 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] .

September 24, 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.

September 24th, Wednesday – Jamerson Library’s Cookbook Book Club. The Jamerson Library will host our “Cookbook Book Club” on Wednesday, September 23rd, starting at 6:00pm. Bring your favorite cookbook, recipe card or internet suggestion and make a dish to share. This month’s theme will be “Soup’s On”. Here are a few suggestions to consider: your favorite soup, some warm bread, or a family recipe. The Library will have plates / bowls, plastic ware and napkins, but you must bring your own serving utensils. This program is intended for adults, don’t forget to bring in copies of your recipe for others!

September 25th, Thursday – After School Crafts with MaKayla starting at 4:00 pm in the community room of the Jamerson Memorial Library. This event is open to all ages, join Library Fairy MaKayla in making an assortment of crafts and enjoy snacks. This month’s theme is “Messy Art”.

September 27th, Saturday – Royal Party in Abbitt Park! Calling all knights and princess of all ages you are invited to dress up and attend a gathering on the lawn to enjoy a photo booth, snacks, games and more from 10:30 am to 12:30pm! Free and open to everyone of all ages, this is a family-friendly event. Don’t forget your phones, cameras, crowns and shields!

September 27th, Saturday – Jamerson Library to be at Holliday Lake’s Fall Festival from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Meet us at the Lake for crafts, bubbles, Bigfoot photo booth and more! Holliday Lake State Park is located at 2759 State Park Road, Appomattox, State Park fees do apply.

The Appomattox Senior and Appomattox Middle FFA chapters traveled to the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, to participate in multiple statewide Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs) June 9-12, 2025. CDEs assess the knowledge and skills of FFA members on various agricultural topics. Participating in these events allows FFA members to develop industry-driven career skills. Middle school chapter members participated in the Creed Speaking, Junior and Senior Hippology, and the FFA Quiz Bowl contests. High school chapter members participated in the Senior Agricultural Education, Senior Agricultural Mechanics, Avian Bowl, Discussion Meet, Employment Skills, Floriculture,  Livestock Judging, Nursery Landscape, Horticulture, and Veterinary Science CDEs. The members of each team spent several weeks of their summer vacation studying and preparing for these events.

Both AMS and ACHS FFA were recognized with the “100% Membership Award” for ensuring that every agriculture student is also an FFA member. This was made possible through the generous support of the Appomattox County Farm Bureau. The high school chapter received a gold rating in the public relations award and was named the Southeast Area Chapter Forestry and Wildlife award. Chapter Reporter, Gracie Covington, prepared a scrapbook detailing chapter events over the past year that earned a bronze rating. AMS FFA received a silver rating in the public relations award and earned a bronze rating for the superior chapter contest. Appomattox Senior FFA also received a gold rating in the superior chapter contest, earning the opportunity to attend the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, this October. Additionally, the chapter was the state champion in the Growing Leaders division of the contest. ACHS FFA was crowned the Southeast Area winner in the Building Communities. The chapter was also declared the overall top chapter in the state.

Colton Jones represented his chapter and the Southeast Area in the state championship for the Creed Speaking Leadership Development Event. He qualified to participate by winning the Southeast Area event in March. During the state championship, Jones recited the FFA creed from memory and answered questions from a panel of judges for five minutes. Ultimately, he placed 6^th in the state-level competition.

Appomattox Primary School teacher Jean Moore helped coach two hippology teams from AMS. Hippology is a competition that tests participants’ knowledge of the equine industry. Contestants completed a written exam covering various topics related to horses, including breed identification, horse leg conformation, color patterns, and anatomical features. Additionally, they participated in events assessing their understanding of horse feeds, tack, measurements, parasites, and more. The junior team, consisting of Liam Anderson, Layton Firebaugh, and Montana Moore, placed 11th in their event, with Moore achieving the 18th highest individual score. The senior team, which included Rose Broyhill, Colton Jones, and Carly O’Brien, also performed well in the senior event. 

Liam Anderson, Layton Firebaugh, Colton Jones, and Carly O’Brien participated in the FFA Quiz Bowl contest. The participants completed a written exam that covered FFA history, general knowledge, leadership, and agricultural education. Later, the team competed in a fast-paced buzzer round against other middle school teams. They finished in 5th place in both the Quiz Bowl exam and 5^th in the team tournament. Jones was the 12^th highest individual in the exam portion of the contest.

Savannah Jones participated in the State Agricultural Education LDE. As part of the competition, she was tasked with developing a lesson plan and materials for a 6th to 8th-grade lesson on natural resources. Jones created a 60-minute lesson that focused on leaf shapes, dichotomous keys, and tree identification. She presented a 20-minute portion of her lesson to a panel of judges, using cooperative learning strategies. Ultimately, Jones placed 4th as the highest individual in her category.

Jay Harris, Pierson Harvey, Tim Henderson, and Chloe Wilson participated in the Senior Agricultural Mechanics contest. In this competition, participants were required to demonstrate their arc welding skills by performing a butt-joint weld and applying knowledge of agricultural electrification. Additionally, the team completed various problem-solving tasks and answered test questions related to machinery, electricity, compact equipment, structures, and environmental and natural resources. The team finished in 6th place overall, and Harris achieved recognition as the 3rd highest individual scorer.

The Avian Bowl CDE involves a team-based round of trivia questions and an individual test that assesses members’ knowledge of poultry management and sciences. ACHS team members included Chloe Dejong, Jay Harris, Pierson Harvey, and Chloe Wilson. Harris was the 6^th high individual, and the ACHS team placed 5^th overall.

Evelyn Johnson and Kat Broyhill represented their chapter in the state Youth Discussion Meet contest, organized by the Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers. Both students were required to research five current agricultural issues and facilitate productive discussions with their peers. Each participant demonstrated skills in productive thinking, problem-solving, and public speaking. Broyhill performed well in the event, while Johnson advanced through two rounds of competition and reached the “Elite 8” round.

Ethan Dowdy participated in the Employment Skills LDE, where FFA members engaged in a series of mock interviews. Prior to the event, Dowdy prepared a resume and cover letter, and he submitted a job description to the judges. He completed two challenging interviews and participated in a networking activity to showcase his interview skills. Dowdy excelled in the event and achieved 6th place.

Christian Dawson, Lainey Hamilton, Lorelei Holt, and Maris Wilson participated in the state Floriculture event. This contest required students to complete a general knowledge exam and identify plants and equipment. Students also had to identify pests, disorders, and diseases of plants.  Each participant demonstrated their skills in flower arranging and potting of young plants. Lainey Hamilton achieved recognition as the 10th highest individual scorer. Overall, the team performed exceptionally well, placing 6th in the competition.

Chloe Dejong, Alyssa Marsh, Rylee Stratton, and Peyton Thacker represented ACHS in the Livestock Judging CDE. Participants were required to evaluate live classes of beef cattle, swine, lambs, and goats. They assessed production statistics based on herd Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) data for various classes. The team finished as the 11th highest overall in the event. Stratton ranked in the top 20 individuals and advanced to the final round, where she presented brief oral speeches to a panel of judges, explaining her class placements. Stratton performed exceptionally well as an individual competitor.

Christian Dawson, Lainey Hamilton, Evelyn Johnson, and Maris Wilson were members of the Nursery Landscape CDE team. Each participant completed a written exam covering basic horticultural principles related to the production, marketing, usage, and maintenance of landscape plants and turf. They were required to identify various plants, pests, disorders, and beneficial insects. Additionally, each student participated in an estimating practicum that tested their ability to interpret landscape drawings. Hamilton ranked as the 10th highest individual, and the team overall placed 5th. Virginia FFA offers a unique opportunity to showcase schools that compete in both the Floriculture and Nursery Landscape CDEs. The Horticulture contest is an opportunity to identify the top horticulture programs in Virginia. Appomattox was the state runner-up. 

The Veterinary Science CDE assessed students’ knowledge in various areas of modern veterinary practice, including pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, general animal care, identification of pet breeds, veterinary equipment, and parasites. The Appomattox team, consisting of Niki Ballagh, Gracie Covington, Autumn Harris, and Savannah Jones, excelled in the written exam, identification, and math components of the event. They achieved 1st place in the state, outperforming 27 other teams. Additionally, Covington was the top individual, finishing in 1st place, while Harris placed 5th, Jones placed 7th, and Ballagh placed 9th. As the state champion Veterinary Science team, they will represent ACHS and Virginia at the National FFA Veterinary Science CDE during the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN, this October.

Niki Ballagh, Chloe Dejong, Jay Harris, and Tim Henderson received their State FFA Degree, the highest degree that a state association can bestow upon its members. Attaining this level of membership demonstrates these members’ superb record-keeping skills and FFA participation. 

Savannah Jones earned recognition as a state proficiency award winner. This program aims to honor students who excel in work-based learning projects as part of the Supervised Agricultural Experience program. Jones was named the state champion in Agricultural Education. She has played a key role in organizing several agricultural education events, including “Little Farmers’ Day” and “Kindergarten Day” at ACHS. Additionally, Jones has led multiple workshops at Virginia Cooperative Extension events such as Central Virginia Farm Day and Farm and Family Day.

Appomattox FFA members would like to thank the many individuals involved in making this trip possible. We express our sincerest thanks to the Appomattox FFA Alumni and all the sponsors who provided scholarships to members to participate in these events. Without their help, our dreams would not have become a reality. We are thankful to Karen Spicer, who provided transportation. Many local individuals, organizations, and businesses also worked to help prepare students for the competitions. Individuals or organizations wishing to sponsor the chapter’s trip to the National FFA Convention should call FFA Advisors Elizabeth Duncan, Dani Hodges, Cassie Long, or Ed McCann at 434-352-8396.

Colton Jones placed 6^th in the State Creed Speaking contest.

Montanna Moore, Layton Firebaugh, Liam Anderson, Carly O’Brien, Colton Jones, and Rose Broyhill were on the AMS Hippology teams.

Layton Firebaugh, Liam Anderson, Carly O’Brien, and Colton Jones placed 5^th in the FFA Quiz Bowl Contest.

Savannah Jones was the 4^th highest individual in the Agricultural Education LDE.

Chloe Wilson, Tim Henderson, Pierson Harvey, and Jay placed 6^th in the Senior Agricultural Mechanics Contest.

ACHS 5^th place State Avian Bowl Team: Jay Harris, Pierson Harvey, Chloe Wilson, and Chloe Dejong

Evelyn Johnson and Kat Broyhill participated in the State Youth Discussion Meet.

Ethan Dowdy placed 6^th in the Employment Skills LDE.

Lorelei Holt, Christian Dawson, Lainey Hamilton, and Maris Wilson were on the 6^th place Floriculture CDE team.

Peyton Thacker, Rylee Stratton, Chloe Dejong, and Alyssa Marsh participated in the Livestock Judging CDE.

Evelyn Johnson, Christian Dawson, Lainey Hamilton, and Maris Wilson placed 5^th in the Nursery Landscape CDE.

Autumn Harris, Gracie Covington, Niki Ballagh, and Savannah Jones were on the State Champion Veterinary Science CDE team.

Savannah Jones was named State Champion in the Agricultural Education Proficiency Award. 

Jay Harris, Chloe Dejong, Niki Ballagh, and Tim Henderson earned their State FFA Degrees.

Sometimes, even vital requests get caught in bureaucratic crosswinds – or maybe just put in the wrong mailbox. The Appomattox Board of Supervisors approved a $5,000 funding allocation for the Southside Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (better known as VASAP) for the upcoming FY2026 budget, but only after learning the request nearly didn’t make it to them at all.

According to the agenda and brief discussion, VASAP Executive Director Roy-Keith Lloyd had met with Sheriff Richardson during budget talks, where it came up that the County hadn’t received VASAP’s funding request. An email from Lloyd to County Administrator Susan Adams revealed the culprit: the request had apparently been mailed to the wrong address.

Luckily, the corrected request landed in time for Monday’s meeting. VASAP is the court-ordered program folks convicted of DUI offenses often must complete, involving education and monitoring (like those ignition interlock devices). Sheriff Richardson, who recently joined the regional VASAP board, explained that while VASAP services are mandated by the courts, the program isn’t entirely self-sufficient without contributions from the localities it serves. Appomattox recently became part of the expanded Southside VASAP region after the Piedmont ASAP (based in Farmville) dissolved due to financial pressures and merged operations.

Supervisor Hipps questioned why the County hadn’t funded VASAP recently if it was locally supported. Administrator Adams and Supervisor Carter clarified that the County had funded predecessor programs years ago when Appomattox was served by the Farmville-based group, but this was the first request from the newly consolidated Southside entity based out of Halifax.

Supervisor Carter moved to approve the $5,000, seconded by Reverend Jones. The vote was unanimous. So, despite a detour through the postal service, the funding seems secured, helping ensure these necessary, if unpopular, services remain available locally – a reminder that even fighting drunk driving involves navigating budgets and, occasionally, misaddressed mail.