Sensitive Santa Kicks Off Holiday Celebrations This Weekend

Children of all ages with sensory sensitivities or other special needs can enjoy a relaxed visit with Santa Claus at three Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) locations. The first Sensitive Santa event will be held at the Post Road Library this Sunday, December 3 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Additional Sensitive Santa programs will be offered at the Hampton Park Library on Saturday, December 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and at the Cumming Library later that afternoon, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

“It can be overwhelming for a child with sensory or other special needs to visit with Santa at the mall or any crowded location where noises, sounds, and even smells are distracting,” says Stephanie Hampson, Youth Services Supervisor at the Hampton Park Library.

“We understand how frustrating it can be for parents who want to help their child experience this magical part of the season, so we’re offering a low-sensory waiting area with a few activities, rather than asking families to stand in line. We’ll also keep the lights dimmed and Santa and his elves will be sensitive about touch and sound with each child,” adds Hampson.

Families can sign up for a 10-minute visit, giving children time to become comfortable with Santa, rather than being rushed through the visit. Parents and caregivers are welcome to take photos during their family’s visit with Santa.

All three Sensitive Santa programs are free, but advance registration is required. To register, call 770-781-9840 and follow the prompts to reach the Cumming, Hampton Park, or Post Road locations.

Santa Claus will meet children at seven free
 Polar Express storytime programs this month.
(Image Credit: The Real Georgia Santa)

There are several more opportunities to meet Santa Claus and celebrate the holiday season at local libraries.

Polar Express Storytimes

FCPL will host several Polar Express storytime programs sponsored by the FCPL Friends & Advocates. The programs include a reading of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, as well as treats and other activities. At the end of each event, Santa Claus will appear for greetings and photos with the children.

The Polar Express storytimes are appropriate for all ages and will be held at the Cumming Library on Thursday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., at the Hampton Park Library on Tuesday, December 5 and Tuesday, December 19 at 6:00 p.m., and at the Post Road Library on Friday, December 22 at 3:15 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.

A Christmas Carol

The New Hampshire-based theater troupe Hampstead Stage Company will appear at the Cumming Library on Sunday, December 17 at 2:30 p.m. to perform the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol, a timeless story with a universal message about the giving spirit of the holiday season and the importance of friends and family.

“Hampstead Stage performances are always popular with our patrons,” explains Paula Glover, Promotions Specialist. “Admission is free and this shorter adaptation of the story is designed for ages 5 and up, so whole families - children, parents, and even visiting grandparents - can enjoy the show together.”

More Free Holiday Programs

A full slate of free holiday-themed crafting, gaming, science, and puppet show programs are scheduled throughout December. For more information on library programs for children, tweens and teens, and adults, please visit the events calendar at www.forsythpl.org. 

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

Here are some new book recommendations for Middle School students suggested by the library staff at Sharon Forks Library.

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Also available in audio format.

Caveboy Dave by Aaron Reynolds
This graphic novel is popular with fans of Captain Underpants books by Dav Pilkey.

The Great Treehouse War by Lisa Graff

Two Truths and a Lie by Ammi-Joan Paquette
A fascinating nonfiction book!

Pax by Sara Pennypacker
Also available to check out as an e-book or e-audiobook.

Ms. Bixby's Last Day by John David Anderson

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova
Awkward will appeal to fans of the Dork Diaries series by Rachel Renee Russell.

Fort by Cynthia DeFelice

Lockwood & Co.:  The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud
This series is popular with fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

If you're looking for books for beginning readers this holiday season here are a few suggestions from Sharon Forks library staff.

Recommended for new readers:

Elephant and Piggie Biggie by Mo Willems

This hardbound book from Mo Willems contains five popular Elephant and Piggie stories.



Recommended books from our Juvenile Collection that are good for kids just starting to read chapter books:

Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey

Inspector Flytrap by Tom Angleberger and Cece Bell

Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon

Looniverse: Stranger Things by David Lubar

The Kingdom of Wrenly: the Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

Recently Sharon Forks library staff shared some of their favorite new books with readers at Sexton Hall Enrichment Center. Here are some of the titles from our adult collection that were showcased as suggestions for gift giving this holiday season.

Final Girls by Riley Sager 
This dark thriller will appeal to fans of Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.  

Good Me Bad Me by Ali Land
A fascinating psychological thriller!

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
A novel about family secrets from the author of Everything I Never Told You.

The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
The Alice Network is the historical fiction novel everyone's talking about this year.

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

Recently Sharon Forks library staff shared some of their favorite new releases with book lovers at Sexton Hall Enrichment Center.  Here are some of the titles that were suggested as popular gifts for adult readers on your holiday list this year.

The Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

The Horse Dancer by Jojo Moyes

The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See

Mrs. Claus to Visit Early Literacy Storytime at Medical Center

Local children are invited to celebrate the holidays with a special early literacy program hosted by Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL), Georgia Highlands Medical Services (GHMS), Literacy Forsyth, and Forsyth County Schools.

‘Tis the Season for Stories will be held in the Training Room at Highlands Medical Plaza, 475 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, on Tuesday, December 5 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The program will include stories and songs in English and Spanish, as well as a puppet show and crafts. Children can also meet Mrs. Claus and receive free children’s books. Admission is free and, while the program is designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, children of all ages are welcome to attend with a caregiver.

The purpose of the event is to help families understand the importance of encouraging early literacy skills starting in infancy.

“We feel strongly that literacy skills are an important part of a child’s cognitive development and our physicians tell parents that it’s never too early to start reading to their children,” says Yolanda Nabors, Chief Operations Officer of GHMS.

Several simple early literacy practices will be demonstrated for caregivers during the program to show how easy it can be to incorporate reading and language learning into everyday activities at home.

“For example, families love to tell stories and share their memories around the holidays,” says Julie Boyd, Youth Services Supervisor at FCPL’s Cumming Library.

“Including young children in these walks down memory lane not only helps them learn about the family’s culture and traditions, it also expands their vocabulary and helps them learn the give-and-take of participating in a conversation,” explains Boyd.

Repetition also helps young children learn new words, adds Pamela Burlingame Miller, Executive Director of Literacy Forsyth.

“Holiday songs are full of repetitive phrases – and the songs themselves are repeated on the radio, on television, and in stores – so children can use all that repetition to practice coordinating their lips, tongue, and teeth to pronounce new words,” says Miller.

Speaking frequently to a young child about their activities and surroundings, or including them in family conversations, are among the early literacy tips that event organizers will share with parents and caregivers during ‘Tis the Season for Stories.

“When we tell traditional stories or sing traditional songs at the holidays, we’re often using words that aren’t as common in our speech at other times of the year,” says Amy Chang, Title I Director of Forsyth County Schools.

“Learning these less common words increases a child’s vocabulary, and that becomes a predictor of reading readiness and success for children as they enter elementary school.”

Following the stories, songs, and puppet show, participants can make reindeer crafts to take home as they wait to meet Mrs. Claus and receive a holiday treat bag of children’s books from Barnes & Noble at The Collection at Forsyth.

“The staff at Georgia Highlands Medical Services is looking forward to hosting ‘Tis the Season for Stories for our youngest patients, their families, and for the whole community. We wish everyone a very joyful holiday season!” add Nabors.

More information about ‘Tis the Season for Stories is available at www.forsythpl.org.

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

Recently staff from Sharon Forks Library shared some of their favorite new releases with book lovers at Sexton Hall Enrichment Center. Here are some of the books for children that were highlighted.

Mother Bruce by Ryan T. Higgins

Stop Following Me Moon! by Darren Farrell

Creepy Pair of Underwear by Aaron Reynolds

The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt

Hedgehugs by Steve Wilson

999 Tadpoles by Ken Kimura

Winter is Coming by Tony Johnson

Baby Bear Counts One by Ashley Wolff

Be Quiet by Ryan T. Higgins

Librarian Picks: Perfect Gifts

In Iceland it’s traditional to celebrate Christmas Eve with an exchange of books and then spend the evening reading them. The custom is so popular that book catalogs are distributed at the start of the season. I love the idea of giving books as gifts but it can be a bit challenging to find just the right one when you're buying for someone else. Here are some adult books recommendations that are suitable for gift-giving or for your own enjoyment this season.

The Blinds by Adam Sternbergh

The Blinds is a modern western with a unique premise. The forty-eight citizens of Caersura, Texas are all either convicted killers or in witness protection. They've agreed to have their memories erased so no one knows if they are one of the guilty or innocent.  A fast and engaging read!

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

An eye-opening autobiography from the host of Comedy Central's The Daily Show about growing up as a biracial child in post-apartheid South Africa.

The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip by George Saunders

This modern parable by Booker Prize winner George Saunders is full of compassion and karmic justice with beautiful illustrations by Lane Smith.  A great gift for anyone young at heart!

The Witchfinder's Sister by Beth Underdown

A novel based on the reign of terror of Matthew Hopkins, England's self-appointed Witchfinder General in the 1640s. Fans of historical fiction or suspense will enjoy this mesmerizing story.    

Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer

Science fiction fans and conspiracy theorists on your list will enjoy learning all the intricacies of Annihilation's mysterious Area X before the film hits theaters in early 2018.

Since We Fell by Dennis Lehane

Dennis Lehane's latest novel offers fascinating characters and heart-pounding suspense.  It's a must read for fans of literary thrillers!

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist

Library "Draws Blood" in Competition with Neighbor

This might be the season for giving thanks, but two local libraries hope their communities will help make it a season for giving blood, as well. Post Road Library, a branch of the Forsyth County Public Library, and the neighboring Milton Library, a branch of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, will host a blood drive challenge on Wednesday, November 29 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Give Blood, Get Bragging Rights

Each branch will host its own blood drive with the American Red Cross and the total number of pints donated will be tallied at the end of the event. The branch with the most blood donated will win the challenge, and the bragging rights.

“We’re so grateful to our patrons for their support of our blood drive programs. We hope others in our community will stop by the library, check out a book, and settle in to help someone in need with a life-giving blood donation…and help us beat the Milton Library. We’d really like to win those bragging rights,” exclaims Decherd.

The Need is Constant

Even though the challenge is a bit of lighthearted fun between local libraries, the need for blood donations is serious.

“Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood,” said Cheryl Mahan, donor recruitment account manager, American Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region.

“Blood donations are needed every day for patients with many serious medical conditions. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer, or sickle cell disease may all need blood.”

“As a national network, the Red Cross has a unique responsibility to help ensure blood is available for patients whenever and wherever it is needed. By donating blood through the Red Cross, donors may be helping patients in their community or patients across the nation,” added Mahan.

You Can Help, Even if You've Never Donated Blood Before

American Red Cross blood donations go to hospitals and medical facilities to help those organizations save lives and care for their patients. Donating blood is a simple four-step process: registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation, and refreshments.

“Every blood donor is given a mini-physical, checking the donor's temperature, blood pressure, pulse and hemoglobin to ensure it is safe for the donor to give blood. The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, takes about an hour and 15 minutes,” explains Mahan.

Decherd invites all members of the Forsyth community to consider giving blood at the Post Road Library’s blood drive, especially those who have never donated before.

“This blood drive challenge is a perfect opportunity for someone who hasn’t donated blood to learn about the process. You can make it a date with your special someone or think of it as a little ‘me-time’ as you pay it forward and help a patient who needs life-giving blood,” encourages Decherd.

Thank You for Giving Blood

“While winning the challenge would be wonderful, the ultimate goal for both libraries is to educate the public about the on-going need for blood donations and to make it more convenient for patrons and visitors to donate blood,” says Decherd.

For more information on the donation process, please visit www.redcrossblood.org. For more information on upcoming blood drives and other programs at Forsyth County Public Library, please visit www.forsythpl.org.

Staff Picks - Shaken by Tim Tebow - Adult Non Fiction

Shaken by Tim Tebow

I’m not into sports but I’ve heard of Tim Tebow and wanted to know more. He starts out asking readers these questions, “When life shakes you up – Who are you? Who do you cling to?”

His world has been shaken up a few times. He’s asked himself these questions, “Who am I when something that has defined me my entire life is gone? Taken away.”

I was pleasantly surprised by how transparent Tim was as he allowed readers to see inside his heart; he’s not all pumped up on fame and glory. He and his family were missionaries in the Philippines

He’s created and helped fund a foundation that brings Hope, Faith and Love to children all over the world. It’s called Orphan Care. He also helps a medical facility called Tebow Cure Hospital. His foundation sponsors a yearly event titled Night to Shine (It’s like prom night).

Tim Tebow introduces readers to some of his hero’s. People that inspire and encourage him. I was amazed at how grounded and down to earth this young man is. I was also amazed at his foundation and what it does. I like this man’s outlook on life and how Tim deals with things when his world is shaken.

Nora St. Laurent
Collection Support Aide

Chatterbooks Book Club for Kids to Read About First Female Pilot

Chatterbooks, a book club for grades K through 2, will meet at the Cumming Library on Thursday, November 30, 2017 at 4:00 p.m.

This month's book selection is Lighter than Air: Sophie Blanchard, the First Woman Pilot by Matthew Clark Smith. This is the story of an extraordinary woman who is mostly forgotten, despite her claim to being the first female pilot in history. In eighteenth-century France, all the pioneering aeronauts were men. Learn how a shy girl from a small, seaside village broke through the barrier to climb the clouds and steer her own course.

Chatterbooks incorporates a story, book discussion, and a craft. Children do not need to read the book in advance to participate. Registration is not required, but please arrive early to secure your spot.


Lorraine Lane
Youth Specialist
Cumming Library

Sharon Forks Library to Host Programs for Seniors at Sexton Hall

When delivering programs that serve patrons and the public is your mission, you don’t let a little thing like a major construction project get in your way.

That seems to be the motto of several staff members at the Sharon Forks Library lately as ongoing renovations to the branch means there is no meeting space suitable for hosting book clubs, storytimes, or other programs.

“We’re looking forward to getting the Sharon Forks community meeting room back, but until the construction project is complete next year, we’re partnering with other local groups to bring enriching programs and classes to our community,” explains Assistant Director for Public Services Stephen Kight.

The library is partnering with Forsyth County Senior Services to offer two classes this month at the Sexton Hall Enrichment Center located at 2115 Chloe Road, Cumming.

The first program, Printmaking with Autumn Fruits and Vegetables, will be held on Wednesday, November 8 at 1:30 p.m. Participants will use the bounty of the season to create unique stamped artwork.

“Using your hands to create something is a great way to be in the moment and enjoy life,” says Ruthie Brew, Director of Forsyth County Senior Services.

“We’ve heard about the popular crafting programs at the library and we’re excited to have their staff come to Sexton Hall to present a program for our members and visitors,” adds Brew.

Printmaking with Autumn Fruits and Vegetables is free and advance registration is required. All supplies will be provided.

The next program, Great Books: Suggestions for Holiday Gift Giving, will be held on Monday, November 13 at 1:30 p.m.

Library staff will share special books that would make great gifts for family, friends, and loved ones of all ages. They can even help you choose books to add to your own wish list. The class is free, but please register in advance.

To register for Printmaking with Autumn Fruits and Vegetables or Great Books: Suggestions for Holiday Gift Giving at Sexton Hall, please call Forsyth County Senior Services at 770-781-2178.

Additional information about programs and classes for seniors is available on the Forsyth County Senior Services website. For information about book clubs and programs at the Cumming, Hampton Park, and Post Road libraries, please visit www.forsythpl.org.

Staff Picks - Borne by Jeff VanderMeer (Adult Fiction)

Jeff VanderMeer's novel Borne takes place in the strangest of realms. Rachel and scavengers like her survive by collecting biotech debris stuck to the fur to of a giant, flying bear who terrorizes the inhabitants of their post-apocalyptic world. In this story the flying bear and his evil ‘proxies’ are merely the status quo. It's the discovery of a unique creature that Rachel names Borne which changes everything and gives Rachel's life new meaning.

It's hard to draw the line between the heroes and the monsters in this bittersweet story but fans of speculative fiction will definitely enjoy the twists and nuances of deciding what makes one a monster. 

Alicia Cavitt
Information Specialist

Library Limelight: Kayla Bolton, Youth Specialist, Hampton Park Library

Library Limelight is intended to be a quick read to help FCPL patrons get to know our librarians and staff. We hope you enjoy learning about the people who make our libraries great!

Kayla Bolton
Youth Specialist
Hampton Park Library

Where is your hometown?

Gainesville, GA

How long have you been at FCPL?

A little over a year

What other jobs have you had at FCPL?

I’ve been in Youth Services since I started.

Why did you choose to work in a library?

While student teaching for my Early Childhood Education degree, I realized that storytime was my favorite part of the day! I had always loved libraries and working with children, so this seemed like the perfect fit!

Describe your job in five words or less.

Let’s all read a book! 

What is unique about your job?

I love how the library is consistently changing, whether it’s different patrons, programs, or technology! It really makes my day go by quickly. 

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love being able to be silly with kids. I also really enjoy reader’s advisory!

What’s the most interesting place you’ve lived or traveled?

I’ve never been on a plane, so I haven’t traveled out of the South. I love Asheville, North Carolina because it has a great mix of historical and artistic elements. They also have a lot of bookstores!

What are your hobbies?

I love reading, hiking, and baking!

What are you reading right now?

Marina by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks?

I love all three, but I usually lean towards paper books.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I am currently working on my MLIS at Valdosta State University. 

AutoMate: DIY Auto Repair Database Launches November 1, 2017

Beginning November 1, digital materials publisher EBSCO will replace its Auto Repair Reference Center with AutoMate, a new database designed to work well on touch-enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

AutoMate includes many familiar features, such as component and wiring diagrams for most domestic and imported vehicles. This new database also includes:

• Maintenance schedules
• Information on parts and estimated labor times
• Step-by-step repair procedures
• Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for most vehicles
• Recall notices

When you print content from AutoMate, you have the option to print just the text, or to print the text and images, when there are diagrams. You can also magnify diagrams and images to view them in more detail.

Access AutoMate inside the library, or login with your library card account while you're on the go. AutoMate is located in the Consumer and Automotive section of the library's eResources collection.

Library "Draws Blood" in Competition with Neighbor

This might be the season for giving thanks, but two local libraries hope their communities will help make it a season for giving blood, as well. Post Road Library, a branch of the Forsyth County Public Library, and the neighboring Milton Library, a branch of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, will host a blood drive challenge on Wednesday, November 29 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Each branch will host its own blood drive with the American Red Cross and the total number of pints donated will be tallied at the end of the event. The branch with the most blood donated will win the challenge, and the bragging rights.

“We’re so grateful to our patrons for their support of our blood drive programs. We hope others in our community will stop by the library, check out a book, and settle in to help someone in need with a life-giving blood donation…and help us beat the Milton Library. We’d really like to win those bragging rights,” exclaims Decherd.

Even though the challenge is a bit of lighthearted fun between local libraries, the need for blood donations is serious.

“Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood,” said Cheryl Mahan, donor recruitment account manager, American Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region.

“Blood donations are needed every day for patients with many serious medical conditions. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer, or sickle cell disease may all need blood.”

“As a national network, the Red Cross has a unique responsibility to help ensure blood is available for patients whenever and wherever it is needed. By donating blood through the Red Cross, donors may be helping patients in their community or patients across the nation,” added Mahan.

American Red Cross blood donations go to hospitals and medical facilities to help those organizations save lives and care for their patients. Donating blood is a simple four-step process: registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation, and refreshments.

“Every blood donor is given a mini-physical, checking the donor's temperature, blood pressure, pulse and hemoglobin to ensure it is safe for the donor to give blood. The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, takes about an hour and 15 minutes,” explains Mahan.

Decherd invites all members of the Forsyth community to consider giving blood at the Post Road Library’s blood drive, especially those who have never donated before.

“This blood drive challenge is a perfect opportunity for someone who hasn’t donated blood to learn about the process. You can make it a date with your special someone or think of it as a little ‘me-time’ as you pay it forward and help a patient who needs life-giving blood.”

“While winning the challenge would be wonderful, the ultimate goal for both libraries is to educate the public about the on-going need for blood donations and to make it more convenient for patrons and visitors to donate blood,” says Decherd.

For more information on the donation process, please visit www.redcrossblood.org. For more information on upcoming blood drives and other programs at Forsyth County Public Library, please visit www.forsythpl.org.