Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Receives the Francis Keppel Award of Excellence for State Data Reporting from the Institute of Museum and Library Services

News

[Saipan, MP] – The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) is proud to announce that Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi and Systems Librarian Omar T. Manacop have been awarded the prestigious Francis Keppel Award of Excellence for State Data Reporting from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This national honor recognizes the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s outstanding commitment to collecting and reporting data that accurately reflects its impact and effectiveness in serving the people of the CNMI.

The Francis Keppel award is presented annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services to honor libraries that demonstrate superior reporting of data in accordance with state standards. The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library was selected as the recipient of this year’s award for its exemplary efforts in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

“We are thrilled to receive this national recognition for our dedication to maintaining high standards of data reporting,” said Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi. “This award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our entire team, who have consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of the importance of accurate and meaningful data in measuring our impact on the community.”

The JKPL’s efforts in state data reporting have been critical in demonstrating its value and impact in the CNMI. By effectively collecting and reporting data, the JKPL has been able to provide valuable insights into its programs, services, and resources, ultimately leading to improved decision-making and better serving the needs of its patrons.

The Francis Keppel award was presented to the Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi and to the Systems Librarian Omar T. Manacop at the Annual IMLS State Data Coordinator’s Meeting on January 14,  2025. The Francis Keppel Award of Excellence for State Data Reporting is a prestigious accolade, and the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is honored to be recognized for its exceptional effort. Since 2019, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library has been a consecutive recipient of the Francis Keppel Award. The library looks forward to continuing its work in maintaining high standards of data reporting and further enhancing its impact on the community.

Background:

The Francis Keppel Award Excellence for State Data Reporting is named after the distinguished U.S. Commissioner of Education who served from 1962 to 1965. He was also a well-known member of the U.S. National Commission on Libraries and Information Science from 1978 to 1983. Francis Keppel was an early and enthusiastic advocate of reliable and regularly reported national, State, and local library statistics that would provide a basis for public policy formulation and the improvement of library services for the entire spectrum of the U.S. population.

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library works hard at developing innovative and enriching programs for our community.   Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org and social media platforms: like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, X @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joeten kiyu public library. The Joeten-Kiyu Public

Library’s hours of operation are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.

HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?

We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Erlinda C. Naputi, Library Director
Omar T. Manacop, Systems Librarian

Commonwealth Library Council & Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Statement

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Commonwealth Library Council & Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Statement On The Passing Of Commonwealth Library Council Former Chairman & Secretary George Norita Camacho

[Saipan, MP]  It is with great sadness that we have learned of the untimely passing of George Norita Camacho, Commonwealth Library Council Chairman (2017-2023) and Secretary (2023-2024) on December 16, 2024. On behalf of the Commonwealth Library Council and the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library-CNMI State Library and the branch libraries – Fernando M. Benavente Memorial Library, Antonio C. Atalig Memorial Library, and Tinian Public Library, we humbly express our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the Camacho family, caregivers, and loved ones.

We, the members of the Commonwealth Library Council (CLC) and the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL)-CNMI State Library, join all our CNMI community in mourning the passing of Chairman George Camacho, who committed his life to advancing the literacy needs of others, most especially the CNMI community. He was a key figure at crucial decision points in CLC and the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library for the education and inspiration of people everywhere. George was a selfless public servant, who focused on lifelong learning for everyone.

Commonwealth Library Council Chairman Charles Villagomez Cepeda shared the following sentiment, “As the current chair of the CLC, it deeply saddens me to learn of the passing of our former chair, George Camacho. He valiantly battled health issues with unwavering determination. Chairman George selflessly relinquished his position, which he held with great honor, to focus on fighting for the life he cherished so dearly. May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy will forever be remembered and cherished.”

Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi shared, “George was a great friend and a true partner in supporting an exemplary public library and a strong advocate in the Commonwealth Library Council. We worked well together, and I will always treasure our friendship. His untiring service and support to our JKPL family are a testament to the type of leader he was, as well as, to the care and compassion he held. May eternal peace be granted on his departed soul and may the Lord embrace George Norita Camacho for all the people he has touched and impacted throughout his years, as we offer our prayers during this time of grief.”                       

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Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Celebrates 33rd Anniversary:  December Calendar of Events

News

“Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Celebrates 33rd Anniversary:  December Calendar of Events”

[Saipan, MP]  December is a time for giving, and this December, we humbly invite you to the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library for a glorious anniversary celebration! Join us in celebrating and taking part in the 33rd Anniversary of your favorite public library– the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library! From December 17th to 28th, 2024, we have fun-filled activities, events, and special gifts for patrons.

From December 17th to 28th, 2024, during library hours of operation, there will be a Book Mending Demonstration for the public. We will showcase tips and techniques on repairing books to the public. If you have any books that need repairing come on by and check out our Book Mending Demonstration.  You are also welcome to drop by the Children’s library to do a plethora of children’s Christmas crafts during this time!

On December 18th & 27th, 2024, we will be having a Free Library Card Replacement Day Special.  Criteria for Free Library Card Replacement Day are as follows: Only patrons who have a library record with no existing fines/late fees can avail to a free library card replacement. Patrons will need to bring their I.D. (Driver’s License, or Mayor’s I.D., or Passport), and provide any proof of mail with your name and address.

On December 19th & 28th, 2024, we will be having an Amnesty Day Special! Criteria for Amnesty Day are as follows: patrons who return overdue/lost library items on December 19th & 28th and are still in good condition will have their fines/late fees waived. Please, avail of Amnesty Day by visiting your friendly Joeten-Kiyu Public Library to borrow resources and take part in our activities and events with your family and friends!

On December 20th & 21st, 2024, we will be having our Photo Op with Santa! You can avail to ONE free 5”x7” photo, or request to have the photo sent directly to your email!

On December 21st & 28th, 2024, join us for our Saturday Read Aloud at the Children’s Library that starts at 10:30 a.m, followed by a craft activity, and a movie shortly after!

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community. Our mission is to preserve the CNMI’s cultural heritage and connect people, libraries, and government to the resources and tools they need to succeed and build a stronger community. The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library thanks our entire CNMI community for your continued support over the years and for your help in promoting and advocating for literacy in the Marianas. Special thank you to the Joeten and Kiyu family for your continued support! Thank you to all of our patrons, donors, sponsors, volunteers, friends, community partners, and team! Your support is important and the library could not do what it does without you and your generosity. We humbly extend a very big heartfelt “Thank you, Si Yu’us Ma’åse’ and Olomwaay”! Biba, Marianas! Biba, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library!

Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and YouTube: joeten kiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. For more information regarding any of our activities, please contact JKPL @670-235-7322/7318 (READ).

HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?

We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.

This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Sensory Corner Receives National Recognition

News

[Saipan, MP]  American Libraries, the voice of the library profession and the flagship magazine of the American Library Association (ALA), published a full spread article on the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library-CNMI State Library for their November/December 2024 issue to some 50,000 individuals and organizations worldwide. The article spotlighted Joeten-Kiyu Public Library as the recipient of ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities grant one year later. 

In 2023, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library was competitively awarded a $20,000.00USD from the American Library Association Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities Grant, an American Library Association initiative that provides community engagement and accessibility resources to small and rural libraries to help them better serve people with disabilities. JKPL utilized the funding to transform a portion of the Children of Our Homeland Center(a.k.a. the Children’s Library) into a Sensory Corner, which includes sensory equipment, devices, assistive technology, toys, and supplies for children who require assistance for disabilities that may be physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional. The library officially unveiled the Sensory Corner at its National Library Week proclamation signing event in April 2024.

Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi shared her sentiments regarding the feature, “We are incredibly thrilled and honored that the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Sensory Corner has been featured in the prestigious American Libraries magazine. This national recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire library team, who are committed to providing our community with the best possible library services. It is truly amazing how our small library in the western Pacific is making a huge difference in the lives of our community is phenomenal.

The Sensory Corner is a space in our library designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals with autism and special needs. It is equipped with a variety of sensory tools and resources, such as fidget toys, calming lights, and noise-canceling headphones, and so much more!– which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. We are humbled to be able to offer this unique space to our community, and we are grateful to American Libraries magazine for highlighting our efforts. We hope that this recognition will inspire other libraries to consider creating similar spaces for their patrons.

Thank you to American Libraries magazine and to our entire Marianas community for your support. Thank you to the Joeten and Kiyu family, our Governor Arnold I. Palacios, Lt. Governor David Apatang, Mayor RB Camacho, Commonwealth Library Council, Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Northern Marianas Library Association, our community partners. We look forward to continuing to provide innovative and inclusive library services to everyone.”

The full article can be found https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2024/11/01/libraries-transforming-communities-one-year-later/

The Sensory Corner is open during JKPL’s hours of operation from 10am-6pm Tuesday-Thursday, 1:30PM-7pm Friday, and 11am-4pm Saturday and closed on Sundays, Mondays, and holidays. Every Friday Night from 5pm-7pm, JKPL hosts Sensory Night and invites families with Children with autism and special needs/disabilities into the Children’s Library to enjoy the sensory wonderland envisioned by Team JKPL. For more information about the JKPL’s Sensory Corner, please contact the Children’s Librarian Celina Foreman at 670-235-7315.

Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and YouTube: joeten kiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. For more information regarding any of our activities, please contact JKPL @670-235-7322/7318.

 HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?

We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.

This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Community Halloween Trunk-or-Treat

[Saipan, MP] Hey, Trick-or-Treaters! It’s that spooky time of the year again! The Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, the library itself, and our awesome community partners are thrilled to invite you to our annual Community Halloween Trunk-or-Treat event.

This family-friendly bash is all about providing a safe and fun space for kids to enjoy Halloween while also getting to know our amazing community and indulging in some seriously yummy treats. It’s an annual tradition that brings us all together, strengthens our bonds, and gives families an alternative to the classic door-to-door trick-or-treating.

So, mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. We’re setting up in the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library parking lot in Susupe, Saipan.

Since 2012, thousands of kids and adults have had a blast dressing up in their spookiest costumes and trick-or-treating in our parking lot. It’s been an incredible journey, and we can’t wait to do it all again this year.

We’re inviting community organizations, schools, business owners, and families to join in on the fun. If you have a trunk, register it and get ready to deck it out in all its Halloween glory! And if you’re feeling generous, consider sponsoring this year’s event. It’s a great way to show your support for our community and make this event even more special.

To register a trunk or become a sponsor, send an email to cnmilib.info@gmail.com or pick up a registration and/or sponsorship form at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library. For more sponsorship inquiries, please contact Mrs. Leoralynn Terlaje or Ms. Carrie Camacho at (670) 287-7316/235-7322/23.

Heads up! The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library will open from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Halloween, October 31, 2024. Remember, the parking lot will also be closed that Thursday, October 31, 2024, so we can get ready for the big day.

So, come one, come all, and let’s make this Halloween Trunk-or-Treat the best one yet! We can’t wait to see you there!