@ Your Library September I October I November I 2013
News and Events from Norfolk Public Library and the Friends of NPL
After a Busy Ten Years, Library Director Norman Maas Retires
.............................................................................................................................................................
After serving as director of the Norfolk Public Library for ten years, Norman Maas retired on July 1, 2013.
D
.............................................................................................................................................................
uring his decade as Norfolk’s library director, he oversaw a variety of changes: the installation of KidZones, a large addition of computers in all the locations, the expansion of Park Place Branch Library and the construction and opening of the Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library. As a result, more information and resources were added to the Library for the benefit of Norfolk’s citizens. Foot traffic increased substantially along with the circulation of books and other items. Today when you step into any Norfolk Public Library, it is
a bustling place from the moment the building opens until closing time. Programs, classes and special events are offered at every location, including multicultural events, early literacy programs, computer and eBook classes, and local history and genealogy classes with the Sargeant Memorial Collection historians. Maas leaves behind a strong legacy with the Norfolk Public Library. City Manager Marcus Jones has appointed Sonal Rastogi to acting library director, effective July 1, 2013.
Norman Maas
Meet Your Interim Director, Sonal Rastogi
.....................................................................................................................
S
I am thrilled to introduce myself as your interim library director! As autumn ushers in a season of change, it also marks the time that I first began my career with Norfolk Public Library (NPL) back in October 1995.
...................................................................................................................
ince then, I’ve worked in a variety of positions at NPL, from library associate to more recently, assistant library director. I’ve witnessed first-hand tremendous growth and improvements to Norfolk’s Public Libraries. Our branches are bustling hubs of information, technology and resources for the Norfolk community. I am proud to be a part of a library system that strives to create a city of readers, where the active pursuit of learning and civility begins at birth, and continues through one’s lifetime. My vision for NPL is to enhance our level of service to the public by emphasizing respect, empathy, and consideration at every opportunity when interacting with others. We hope that you find our branches to be welcoming places, and that our friendly staff exceeds your expectations. Recently, renovations were completed at the Blyden Branch Library
Inside:
2
Annual Book Review Contest
3
The Wait is Over for eBooks!
as part of the City’s Neighbors Building Neighborhoods initiative, making the branch more fun, interactive and inviting. Construction for the Slover Sonal Rastogi Memorial Library is well underway in downtown Norfolk, and it is projected to open late 2014. NPL also launched a new eBooks collection. To celebrate, we hosted a Technology Tune-Up event on Saturday, September 14 from 11 AM - 2 PM at the Pretlow Anchor Branch Library. More than 100 people came out to “test drive” our latest technology and enjoy festivities for the entire family. As interim director, please know that my door is always open to you. Feel free to contact me at (757) 664-7328 ext. 309. I look forward to serving you!
4
The Perfect Stocking Stuffer On Sale Now!
5
Blyden Branch Library Celebrates 92nd Anniversary