LIBRARY NEWS
LIBRARY NEWS
Embedded Files
April 24, 2025
Behind the Scenes with IT!
The Institute of Museum and Library Services funded 2 new servers for JCL in 2024! These now-operational servers provide a sustainable, safe, and efficient connection for Jefferson County. So if you need to surf the web at JCL, don't worry, we've got you covered.
The grant was awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
March 18, 2025
Winners!
Congratulations to John, our 2025 Jefferson County Library Foundation 50/50 raffle winner! And our THANKS to John for donating his portion of the winnings back to the JCL Foundation. Your generosity supports significant work in our community. Thank you!
Jan. 29, 2025
Granted!
Have you tried our new tech? JCL was awarded a $30,269 grant from LSTA to purchase new public access computers for every location - 41 in total across the district!
Whether it's finding a lost ancestor, applying for a job, preparing for an exam, or just browsing our catalog, we're thrilled to offer this new and improved technology for whatever you need!
The grant was awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
Jan. 28, 2025
New Card Catalog!
JCL launched a new catalog to help you find what you’re looking for! Now, you can visit a one-stop-shop to discover everything the library has to offer.
PLEASE NOTE: All of your current account information (checkouts, holds, fines, address and phone, etc.) will be available on the new system. Your library barcode and Personal Identification Number (PIN) will remain the same.
With just ONE search of a topic, you can find everything we have to offer on that subject or title, from our bookshelves, Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, online databases, other libraries, our upcoming events, and more! You can also get suggestions for related titles while you wait for a hold to be filled, review current checkouts, renew materials, and place holds online, save searches so that you're notified when new materials arrive, add your own tags, reviews, and star ratings to titles, create, manage, and share lists of your favorite books, and more!
You can search on the go, too! Manage your holds and borrows and view account information here, as well. Find links to the app here.
We're thrilled to offer you a more comprehensive, efficient way to get what you need from the library. We can't wait for you to get started.
And if you're happy with the old catalog, don't worry... it's still around!
Nov. 7, 2024
Welcome!
Missouri Evergreen, a library consortium, empowers the sharing of resources between libraries. JCL is proud to be a member of Missouri Evergreen, and we're thrilled to welcome the nine newest libraries who have recently joined.
Patrons with a library card from these libraries can now check out items at JCL, and JCL patrons may use their library cards at these libraries, as well. Additionally, we can share items back and forth, so you have more options at your fingertips!
Welcome to: Brentwood Public Library, Ferguson Public Library, Kirkwood Public Library, Maplewood Public Library, Richmond Heights Public Library, Rock Hill Public Library, University City Public Library, Valley Park Library, and Webster Groves Public Library.
Oct. 29, 2024
SMS Services
In order to better serve you, we’ve adopted a new SMS messaging system. If you’ve opted in to receive alerts about overdue and expiration notices, you’ll now see those arrive from a different number: 660-324-0279.
If you accidentally blocked this number but you would like to continue receiving SMS messages from the library, you’ll need to text the word “start” to the number above.
Aug. 5, 2024
Brain Boost
The Jefferson County Library is thrilled to receive a $3,729.00 LSTA grant from the Missouri State Library to purchase 20 Launchpads for the library’s memory kit collection. The collection, designed to offer tools to promote cognitive wellbeing, serves adults and seniors with curated items spanning a range of needs.
With mind puzzles and brain games that users have found both challenging and entertaining, the Launchpads offer an enjoyable way to help keep mental skills sharp. These pre-programmed tablets, with pre-installed apps in a variety of themes, require no setup or login; users can simply turn them on and begin! And because they require no internet connection, they may fill a gap for users who may not otherwise have access to similar options.
The Launchpads are available for checkout as well as in-library use. Get started now!
This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
July 2, 2024
Scam Alert
We recently became aware of an email scam that appears to be an overdue notice from the Jefferson County Library. The email may appear official, but it is not.
The fraudulent email is a known scam requesting payment for an overdue copy of The Da Vinci Code or another title. If you receive this email, DO NOT CLICK THE LINK TO PAY!
At Jefferson County Library, residents are not charged late fees for overdue items. Any bills for replacement of lost items, or fines for library users living outside of our district, are paid in-person at the Library Services Desk or at a kiosk in the library. You will never be sent an email that includes a link to pay a fine.
This scam email is in no way connected to any Jefferson County Library accounts or confidential patron information.
If you receive an email that doesn’t seem to be from a trusted source:
Do not open it
Delete it immediately
Do not click links that appear in the message
Do not download any attachments
Do not reply to sender and do not call phone numbers provided in the message
When in doubt, please contact us at 636-296-2204 (JCL-Arnold), 636-551-1020 (JCL-Cedar Hill), 636-677-8186 (JCL-Northwest), or 636-461-1914 (JCL-Windsor). We’re here to help.
April 16, 2024
New Library Card Designs for JCL's First Spirit Week
JCL celebrated the American Library Association's National Library Week with a personalized Jefferson County Library Spirit Week! All week long, staff hyped the library with costumes for themes like Superhero Day, Pajama Day, and Literary Character Day.
And, as part of the celebration, the library unveiled a gift for patrons: five new library card designs!
Current cardholders are invited to snag one of these new designs for free through July 31. Those without a JCL card can find all the registration information here. For new cardholders, too, these designs will be waiting!
*After July 31, patrons can still update old JCL cards with a new design for the usual $1 replacement fee.
April 15, 2024
Library Acquires Book Scanner Through LSTA Grant
In a step toward the library’s vision to be “a hub of tradition and innovation, cultural preservation and promotion, and equitable access,” the Genealogy Department of the Northwest Branch of the Jefferson County Library has acquired a ScannX Book ScanCenter through an LSTA grant.
“In the brief time we've had it, it has become an invaluable tool with usage versatility beyond our expectations,” said Ginger Brickey, head of the Genealogy and Local History Department at Jefferson County Library.
The scanner enables the digitization of materials through a process designed to prevent the physical damage that a typical scanner can incur. The scanner’s V-shaped cradle holds the book open at an angle, mimicking the way a book naturally lays open and thus minimizing stress on the book's spine and pages. Its high-resolution image sensors and adjustable settings capture clear images without the deteriorating effects of bright light and heat from traditional scanners or photocopiers.
“We have the most extensive genealogy collection in Jefferson County, so it's crucial that we maintain our historical resources while ensuring accessibility for researchers locally and beyond,” said Cole Sawyer, Library Services and Outreach Coordinator. “With the integration of technology, we're thrilled to enhance our capabilities in fulfilling these vital purposes."
Library users can send images electronically, archive for online viewing, and print physical copies.
"Acquiring this book scanner has been a tremendous leap forward to providing our staff and visitors with the most up-to-date archiving and data-saving technology,” Brickey said. “I am excited to build public programs around its use.”
This project is a coordinated effort of the Genealogy Department, Northwest Branch Manager, IT Network Administrator, Accounting Department, and Assistant Director for Library Services. This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
April 15, 2024
A box turtle visits JCL-Windsor.
Painters creating jellyfish at JCL-Cedar Hill.
Dive In!
Patrons enjoyed an aquatic adventure throughout the month of March at Jefferson County Library through the district-wide promotion “Dive In: Exploring the World of Water.”
"JCL staff poured a tremendous amount of effort into 'Dive In,'" said Library Services and Outreach Coordinator Cole Sawyer. "And it paid off.”
Highlights included an interactive seminar about “Who Messed Up the Mississippi?” by the Mastodon State Historic Site, a “Wave of Change” created from recycled objects, and a visit from the St. Louis Aquarium, which drew 163 people across three branches. In total, JCL staff planned 58 programs and activities for the promotion.
Prizes included bracelets tracking live sea animals around the world, as well as $100 gift certificates to places like the St. Louis Zoo, an adventure company, and more.
The district-wide promotions began in 2022, as a way to highlight the unity of the library district and celebrate together. Previous themes have included Women’s History Month, “pARTy: Celebrate the Arts”, “Money Smart,” and more.
Staff are currently planning for the next promotion, “Mysteries in the Stacks,” which takes place in May to honor the birthday of Arthur Conan Doyle.
April 15, 2024
Jefferson County Library Foundation St. Patrick's Day 50/50 Raffle Winner Takes Home Over $500
Congratulations to this year's winner of the Jefferson County Library Foundation's St. Patrick's Day 50/50 Raffle!
With a pot of $1,083, Robert walks away with $541.50, while the remaining half is added to the Foundation's funding. The Jefferson County Library Foundation provides critical support to the Jefferson County Library District, resulting in free programs, resources, and services available to the hundreds of thousands of adults, children, and youth of Jefferson County.
More about the Foundation's work, and further opportunities to get involved, can be found here.
This year's lucky winner!
April 15, 2024
Usage Upgrades in the Genealogy Department
Just in time for spring, the Genealogy Department at Jefferson County Library is getting a redesign. Patrons can expect the same valuable resources in a more user-friendly setup.
“With the old shelving layout, visibility was very limited,” said Ginger Brickey, head of the Genealogy & Local History Department. In addition to increasing visibility, the updates will allow for new methods of organization that help patrons locate what they’re looking for.
According to Brickey, this will be the first significant upgrade to the space in nearly 20 years. “We are also updating the furniture, carpet, and paint,” she said, “so the space will have a totally new feel!”
The majority of financial support for the redesign comes from a Jefferson County Genealogical Society donation after their disbandment in 2023. Friends of the Northwest Library will also cover some of the new purchases, while funding for the carpet and paint comes from the library’s budget as part of updates to the building as a whole.
Work is currently underway, and while upgrades will continue through the spring and early summer, Brickey says they expect the room to be open to the public by mid-April.
The Jefferson County Library’s Genealogy & Local History Department houses the most extensive genealogy collection in Jefferson County. Library visitors can explore local and family history and even make appointments for specialized assistance from genealogy staff.
Ginger Brickey, head of the Genealogy & Local History Department, chooses books to shelve in the redesigned space.
December 20, 2023
You can now view JCL's 2022 Annual Report here. Join us as we celebrate our patrons, our staff, our community, and our opportunities to serve.
November 28, 2023
We're still here!
The Jefferson County Library Genealogy Department, located in the Northwest Branch of JCL, isn't going anywhere anytime soon! Though the Jefferson County Genealogical Society (JCGS) has disbanded, this doesn't change the status of the library department, which is a separate entity.
Our staff stand ready to serve you on your journey through history. Hope to see you soon!
November 8, 2023
Dolly Parton's bringing her Imagination Library to Missouri!
Starting today, parents can register children age 0-5 to receive a free book EVERY MONTH.
We love the way that this initiative champions literacy in our state, and we encourage you to check it out!
October 11, 2023
September 28, 2023
September 7, 2023
June 30, 2023
We're thrilled to count among the 200 libraries selected across the country for digital literacy and APC workshops. Learn more from the following press release from the American Library Association.
CHICAGO —Powered by a contribution from AT&T, the Public Library Association (PLA) has selected more than 200 public libraries across 45 states to host digital literacy and ACP workshops. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentives, supported by AT&T support public libraries in their work improving digital skills and promoting broadband adoption among families and communities. The workshops leverage the online digital literacy courses, created by PLA in collaboration with AT&T, that are freely available to anyone through DigitalLearn.org and AT&T ScreenReady. DigitalLearn.org online courses and training materials were developed with and for library staff and their patrons.
This second cohort is part of an expanded national initiative and collaboration between PLA and AT&T. In 2022, 160 libraries were selected to be part of the PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T. The initial group of libraries held more than 1,500 workshops which helped over 8,000 learners build skills and confidence using technology. This new cohort will increase the number of learners libraries can continue to reach.
PLA President Maria McCauley said, “Public libraries continuously play a vital role in providing digital literacy tools and information to their communities. The expansion of this powerful collaboration with AT&T for the second year will ensure that even more families and communities can benefit from programs and resources that increase digital access and equity.”
Workshops, available in English and Spanish, will be offered on 8 digital literacy topics, as well as how to apply and use the ACP benefit. Courses cover basic technology skills which include topics such as internet use, video conferencing, cybersecurity, and mobile device basics and ACP basics.
“DigitalLearn aligns perfectly with our library’s mission of providing equitable access to digital literacy, technology, and information. DigitalLearn has played a critical role in our library by providing digital support and literacy. Our library will continue to use this resource in a variety of ways." said Miranda Robbins, New Braunfels Public Library, New Braunfels, TX, 2022 cohort participant.
“Collaboration is a crucial part of helping to close the digital divide,” said Charlene Lake, chief sustainability officer, senior vice president, AT&T corporate responsibility. “Our work with libraries is making a difference as we meet people in their local neighborhoods and bring them digital literacy tools and resources so they can gain the skills needed to participate in our connected world.”
Workshops funded by the PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive will be conducted online and/or in person at participating libraries across the United States in 2023. Workshops will begin in August and will be offered through December 2023. Patrons should check with your local libraries to learn about upcoming workshops in the community.
"PLA awards $1.27 million to more than 200 Public Libraries for digital literacy and ACP workshops", American Library Association, June 20, 2023.
http://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2023/06/pla-awards-127-million-more-200-public-libraries-digital-literacy-and-acp (Accessed June 30, 2023)
Document ID: 40f5306f-f91b-4a2f-9a79-586593935ae9
See the full press release including a list of selected libraries at the link above.
June 20, 2023
Won't you be our neighbor?
This 6,600 square foot property is available now for lease by a nonprofit from the Jefferson County Library. This building offers a perfect turnkey floor plan for a medical or rehab facility.
The highlights:
Keycard access control
Large, divisible seminar space
Medical lab
Immunization room
4 exam rooms
3 offices plus a kitchen
Backup generator
Dedicated parking spaces: 5 employee spaces, 4 ADA spaces, and 12 general parking spaces, with additional overflow spaces when available.
Get in touch- we'll send you a video tour and answer any questions you might have, and we'd be happy to set up a walk-through.
Please email library director Tony Benningfield at tbenningfield@jeffcolib.org with any inquiries!
May 24, 2023
NEWS RELEASE
Don’t ask Jefferson County Library staff to count how many rolls of colored tape they’ve used on their reclassification project. But it’s all worth it to make book selection more approachable for patrons!
Each branch of the Jefferson County Library has completed the process of switching from an author call number scheme to a browsing system, classified by genres.
"We wanted to make browsing easier for patrons of all ages,” said library director Tony Benningfield, “and especially those returning to the library who may not yet know who their favorite author is.”
The Children’s Department provided the inspiration for the change, Benningfield said.
“When children come in looking for a book about animals, they don't know to ask for the latest Willems. We just applied that idea to the general collection.”
With twelve genres in juvenile, ten in teens, and four in adults, patrons who may not be familiar with specific titles or authors can more easily find a book that fits their interests.
The move was also born out of a need for call number consistency across the district, according to technical services manager Kate Coleman.
At every location, each genre is assigned a color, and books are labeled with colored tape. Signs detailing the system help users locate just what they’re looking for.
One thing that hasn’t changed? Staying on top of trends!
According to Benningfield, “new and popular materials remain the easiest to find."
Though it was no small task, it has paid off. Coleman noted that even regular patrons are thrilled with the new experience.
“I am so happy with the results and proud of our staff,” she said. The rainbow of colors throughout the collection is a bonus, too!”
May 10, 2023
NEWS RELEASE
Library Receives Grant to Support Network Security
Jefferson County Library received $7,831 to replace servers at the Northwest and Cedar Hill locations. These servers host mission-critical software for the operation of the library district, and must be updated regularly in order to meet current security standards.
Assistant Director of Library Services Pam Withrow and library network administrator Keith McFarlane worked together to outline the library’s needs in the grant application.
The IT Department makes every effort to prevent security breaches, McFarlane explained. These servers are one of many ways the library ensures digital safety at the branches. The department also offers regular technology training for library staff.
Some operational improvements will also come with the new servers, according to McFarlane.
“Besides enhancing general data security, the new servers will increase hardware reliability, efficiency, speed, and sustainability,” he said. “Patrons and staff will notice less lag time when streaming content or participating in a virtual conference.”
The grant funds will pay for 75% of the project, with the library contributing the remaining 25% of the cost.
“Because people depend on Jefferson County Library for their educational, recreational, and business needs, our technology must be reliable and as secure as possible,” Withrow said. “Grants like this enable us to purchase state-of-the-art equipment that would otherwise be difficult for the library to afford.”
The grant was awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
Assistant Director of Library Services Pam Withrow and library network administrator Keith McFarlane worked together to outline the library’s needs in the grant application.
Mar. 28, 2023
Library Swag!
Grab your gear to represent the library everywhere you go.
The best part? A portion of the proceeds benefits the Jefferson County Library Foundation.
Find it all right here.
Mar. 1, 2023
We're on TikTok!
JCL's digital presence continues to expand.
You can find us at tiktok.com/@jeffcolibmo.
Feb. 6, 2023
Mark your calendars - it's here!
Celebrate the grand opening of the Cedar Hill Satellite with us. Festivities include a ribbon cutting ceremony, refreshments, and tours of the library. We can't wait!
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Feb. 20, 2023
6780 Mall Dr. in Cedar Hill
Feb. 2, 2023
Cedar Hill Branch Opening Soon! A few "sneak peek" photos from our move-in days...
We can't wait to celebrate the opening of our newest location - a satellite branch in Cedar Hill.
Serving the community of Cedar Hill and beyond, the branch offers a children's area, public computers and printing, and a drive-through service for holds pickups!
December 16, 2022
JCLD's Facilities truck has a new look! Check it out!
November 29, 2022
Jefferson County Library District patrons,
Missouri’s Secretary of State is proposing a new administrative rule that would restrict state funding to public libraries based on new collection development policy requirements.
The rule states, in part, that "no funds received shall be used to purchase or acquire materials in any form that appeal to the prurient interest of any minor." You can read the proposed rule here.
Jefferson County Library’s Board of Trustees passed a resolution regarding the proposed rule at their meeting on November 21. You can read the resolution below.
A 30-day public comment period regarding the rule is open from November 15-December 15. If you are interested in submitting a comment you can do so by the methods below:
By email to comments@sos.mo.gov. Type the proposed rule number, 15 CSR 30-200.015, in the subject field.
By mail to Missouri Secretary of State, P.O. Box 1767, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
Jefferson County Library encourages parents and guardians to foster a love of reading, creativity, and a strong sense of imagination in their children – all of which are found in abundance at the library. The Library has an established collection development policy that supports the best interests of children, families and our patrons. We value parents’ and guardians' involvement in how their children use the library.
We believe our collection development policies serve our patrons effectively and reflect the diversity of the age, race, ethnicity, culture, education, socioeconomic level and lifestyle of the communities we serve.
The Library upholds the rights of each individual to privately read, listen to, and view the full range of published thought and ideas. The Library subscribes to the principles embodied in the Library Bill of Rights and its interpretations, Freedom to Read Statement and Freedom to View Statement adopted by the American Library Association.
We are always sensitive to any possibility of censorship and restriction of equitable access to books and other vital Library materials. We believe parents and guardians should be arbiters on what is suitable for their own children, and are wary of any third parties – including the State of Missouri – to impose those choices on others.
Since 1989, Jefferson County Library has provided resources and services to enrich individual minds, enhance lives and expand perspectives. We look forward to continuing to serve our Jefferson County community.
November 21, 2022
Jefferson County Library Board of Trustees - Resolution Opposing 15 CSR 30-200.015 Library Certification Requirement for the Protection of Minors submitted by the Missouri Secretary of State
WHEREAS, the Jefferson County Library Board of Trustees believes that the right to read is an important part of the intellectual freedom that is basic to democracy;
WHEREAS, the Jefferson County Library Board of Trustees upholds the belief that responsibility for a child’s reading must rest with the parent or guardian, not with the library. The library will not infringe on the parent’s right to choose materials for their children; and
WHEREAS, the Jefferson County Library Board of Trustees does not support the removal of local control where library administration is concerned.
RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Jefferson County Library:
1. Stands steadfast in its commitment to uphold intellectual freedom;
2. Defends a patron’s freedom to read and asserts that it is the sole right and responsibility of the parent or guardian to determine what library material is appropriate for their children; and
3. Affirms that policy and collection development decisions should remain at the local level.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the Jefferson County Library:
1. Urges the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules to reject 15 CSR 30-200.015.
ADOPTED this 21st day of November 2022
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