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.