Wendy, a long-time member of the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library, is the spotlighted volunteer for this month for all the Jacksonville Public Libraries.
Volunteer Spotlight: Wendy at Beaches Library
Wendy joined the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library (FOBBL) in 1999 and began volunteering at the library in 2007. She first helped by sorting donations for the book sales, but it didn’t take long before she became involved in many other ways.
Today, Wendy helps organize and run three FOBBL book sales each year, keeps the FOBBL honor cart stocked, assists with two book clubs, and lends a hand during programs and special events like Comic Fest, where you might have seen her dressed up like the Cat in the Hat!
She also brings a creative touch to the library by decorating both the space and herself with themed outfits and displays for holidays and youth programs.
Beyond her many volunteer roles, Wendy is known for bringing weekly snacks and surprise treats that brighten staff meetings and events. Her dedication and generosity have made her a beloved part of the library community, and her efforts are rewarded by the appreciation and smiles of staff and patrons alike.
In recognition of her contributions, Wendy received a plaque in 2017 honoring her as an “Outstanding Friends of the Library Volunteer.”
Read Wendy’s Interview Below
What inspired you to volunteer for the library?
As a child, I have always loved books and reading. Mom always knew to look for me at the school or public library. As a former teacher, I set up a Read Across America program in New Jersey. When I retired from teaching, it was natural that I volunteer for the Beaches Library when I moved to Jacksonville.
What is the most rewarding part about volunteering for the library?
I love turning kids on to reading. When I dress up as the Cat in the Hat for programs, I am able to interact with the children. At the Friend’s book sales, I help young parents choose books and offer to photograph the children reading to them.
Do you have a favorite volunteer task or program?
Anything involving children. I volunteer at science programs, zoo visits, and Comic Fest. I also recommend books to parents at the honor cart after I sort the donations. As part of the FOBBL (Friends of the Beaches Branch Library) Board, I recommend funding for programs.
Do you have a favorite book genre or author?
I like to read books that require me to figure something out, such as mysteries. I especially enjoy historical travel where I learn something I may not have known. This happened at one of our book clubs when I read the book, Cuba. The library author visits (Lit Chats) also make the book subject more interesting.
Books, Creativity and Community
Pictured above are a few photos showing Wendy’s playful nature. Over the last 19 years, she has happily donned costumes and themed outfits — from a wizard to the Cat in the Hat — while interacting with children and helping make library programs fun.
Through it all, Wendy has proudly worn many volunteer hats at the Beaches Library. Her enthusiasm for books, creativity, and community has helped champion the whimsical side of reading, making literacy feel exciting and welcoming for children and families alike.
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