Pyko replaces former CEO Gina J. Millsap, who retired Dec 1, 2020. Thad Hartman, Chief of Staff, has served as Interim CEO for the last 10 months.

“The Board is very pleased that it was able to hire an individual with strong Topeka – Shawnee County ties,” said Jim Edwards, Trustee Board Chair. “A 30-year career with this library gives her a broad range of experience and qualifications that has prepared her to be CEO. We are also very fortunate to have an executive staff team that carried on the normal operations of the library during the interim, which included some very trying times.”

Library experience

Pyko is a dynamic leader in the Topeka and Shawnee County community. She has received local, regional and national recognition for early literacy services, community partnerships, innovative reading initiatives and civic engagement. In her role as public services director, she managed the public, youth, program and community services departments. Pyko is a leader in implementing the library’s community impact goals and the development of annual work plans.

She began her career telling stories in the Kids Library and fell in love with libraries. Pyko has managed several areas of the library including senior services, local history/genealogy, the Alice C. Sabatini Gallery and technical services. Nationally, she is recognized as a leader, spokesperson and presenter within the American Library Association, Kettering Foundation and National Endowment of the Arts.

Community involvement and education

Pyko enjoys being actively involved in Topeka and communicating the essential role of the library with community leaders. She serves on the United Way on Grade Achievement Impact Council, Smart City-Momentum 2022 and the YWCA Racial Justice Book Club. She is also the current president of the Rotary Club of Topeka.

Pyko holds a bachelor’s degree in human development psychology from Wayne State University (Detroit) and a master’s degree in library science from Emporia State University. She resides in Topeka with her husband Marc and son Landon, who is a student at the University of Kansas.

CEO search committee

“I appreciate the honor of serving as chair of the 2021 TSCPL CEO Search committee,” said Joan Hicks, Trustee and CEO Search Committee Chair. “THANK YOU to each member for all your work in this effort! Each one of you brought a unique perspective to this process. With the diligent and thorough work of Bradbury Miller Associates, the consultants assisting with this effort, this process took approximately four months from the national advertisement of this opening to its conclusion today with the hiring of a new CEO. We truly believe we have found the best person for this job in Marie Pyko! Congratulations Marie and we look forward to the future of the TSCPL!”

The CEO Search committee members were Trustee & Committee Chair Joan Hicks, Trustee Beth Dobler, Trustee Jennifer Miller, Trustee Liz Post, Friends of TSCPL Board representative John Conlee, The Library Foundation board representative Judy Moler, TSCPL staff representative Jesse Maddox, and and ex-officio member Trustee Chair Jim Edwards.

The post Marie Pyko selected Chief Executive Officer appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Seniors get meal perks at the Millennium Café through a program instituted earlier this month.

The Choosing Healthy Appetizing Meal Plan Solutions for Seniors (CHAMPSS) is a program offered through Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging that allows seniors age 60 and older to choose from different entrees and eat spontaneously at their convenience at CHAMPSS locations throughout our three-county area (Shawnee, Jackson and Jefferson).

Public services specialist, Matt Pettit, who serves on the Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board, acted as the liaison between Jayhawk and the café to make this happen.

There is a suggested donation per meal and participants must attend an orientation to enroll in the program.

“Participants say they enjoy the flexibility offered through this program as well as the opportunity to be around people of all ages,” says Marie Pyko, public services director. “The program represents that the future of senior care is intergenerational and inclusive. We are very excited to see the response.”

Learn more about CHAMPSS

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The Friends of the Library Scholarship Committee were very impressed by the passion and professionalism of the applicants for 2016 scholarships. The Friends awarded scholarships to three library staff members pursuing their Masters in Library Science degrees. Each will receive the maximum amount allowed per policy guidelines.

Studying at Wayne State University, Cindy Hohl, was awarded $1,000.

Miranda Ericsson, a student at Emporia State University, was awarded $1,500.

Natalie Moreland, a student at the University of Missouri –Columbia, was awarded $1,500.

Including these scholarships, over the past 23 years, the Friends of the Library have invested $92,000 in the staff at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library. At some point in their careers, one third of the current library management team received scholarships from the Friends.

The post Friends of the Library gift scholarships appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

• Easier on a smartphone or device
• Better search experience
• Curated lists, comments, reviews
• Netflix-like browsing
• OverDrive ebooks located right on the catalog

Let us know what you think on Twitter.

Preview New Catalog

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See all library events

Are you ready for all this?

At library events, you get more than mere entertainment. You get some life-enriching stuff, for instance: A better understanding of your world, a plethora of solid resources, an eyeful of beautiful art.

Actually, strike that. On the surface, library events are purely entertainment. That other stuff just seems to sneak in somehow (blame our awesome librarians). Come down and get some fun. See you soon!

1. Edible Book Festival

Friday, April 1, 2016 | 5:30-8 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium

Create an edible masterpiece based on the content or shape of a book ‒ from puns to literal interpretations ‒ for this 10th annual festival. Call 580-4515 by 5 p.m. Mar 31 to enter. Bring entries to the library between 3 and 5:25 p.m. April 1. Learn more about crafting and the library.

2. International Film Series

A compelling drama about the dissolution of a marriage. 2011 Oscar winner. © Sony Picture Classics | Iran | 2011 | PG-13| 123 minutes

An honest, but heart wrenching depiction of deep love and responsibility. 2012 Oscar winner © Sony Picture Classics | France | 2012 | PG-13| 127 minutes

3. Art2Wear

Admire sculpture for the body in works by artists who design fine art clothing – some are wearable, while others are avant-garde. The exhibit runs from April 8-May 15.

Your Second Friday chance to see this exciting exhibit of sculptures designed for the body. Members of the Topeka Handweavers and Spinners Guild will show you how to do some of the techniques, weaving, stitching and construction that you see in the show.

Meet members of the Topeka Wearable Art Club and featured artist Anita Luvery Mayer while enjoying refreshments. Share ideas about fashion, style and design at our exhibit of art designed to be worn on the body.

The human body is a blank canvas with endless possibilities. Teens have a chance to transform that body with a wearable work of art. Teams will create high fashion utilizing only trash. Create wearable sculpture or a fashion garment, take pictures and show off your design. [12-18]

4. Music for a Sunday Afternoon

Music for a Sunday Afternoon presents David Basse & Joe Cartwright. David and Joe have been at the forefront of Kansas City Jazz for over 20 years. They perform regularly at the Blue Room in the American Jazz Museum. Come enjoy their finger-snapping jazz styling for voice and piano.  Learn more about jazz & the library.

5. Green Fair

More than 20 community organizations share their information with hands-on activities on how to help the environment. Make green connections. Activities include crafts, music, games and live animals. Fun for all ages. Learn more about green life & the library.

6. Book Swap

Trade books with other Friends of the Library members. Not a Friend yet? Join at the door. Individual memberships are $20 and families are $30. Refreshments provided. Call 580-4445 for more information.

7. El Día de Los Niños/El Día de Los Libros – Children’s Day/Book Day

The post 10 events in April & May appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Because the North Topeka K-Mart at 2240 NW Tyler St. and Lyman Road is closing, the bookmobile stop that usually occurs at K-Mart Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m. will move to the Dillons grocery store parking lot at 800 NW 25th St. beginning March 1. The bookmobile will be located in the southwest corner of the Dillons lot.

Book drop gone

The book drop at 2240 NW Tyler St. has been removed for painting and a new location will be announced soon. In the meantime, North Topeka bookmobile users can return books at:
Shawnee North Community Center | 300 NE 43rd St.

Soldier Township Fire Department | 600 NW 46th St.
Petro Deli | Hsy 75 & NW 46th St.
Library | 1515 SW 10th Ave.

About the bookmobiles

The bookmobiles stop at 20 locations around the city and county. At the bookmobile you can:
Check out books, movies and music
Get a library card
Pick up holds and return items
Update your account
Children can also visit the AdventureMobile during Summerfest to see a featured animal each week.

The post Bookmobile change appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Diana Friend
Communications and Marketing Director
(785) 580-4486
dfriend@tscpl.org

Leah Sewell
Communications Editor
(785) 580-4487
lsewell@tscpl.org

Wednesday January 20, 2016
Ready-made content
Hello, members of the local media. I’ve compiled a list of 10 library events you’ll want to add to your calendars or consider giving some special love in February and March. In 2015, we had over 90,000 instances of event attendance – that’s a 14% increase from 2014. I’m certain that your help in promoting our excellent events factors significantly into our success. Keep it up in 2016! And thanks so much for your support of the library. ❤️📚
– Leah, Communications Editor

1.
Book, Book, Goose!
Thursday, February 4
Thursday, March 3
6:30-8 p.m. | The Dutch Goose Books
Book, Book, Goose! is a public book club providing a unique atmosphere for a lively discussion. Explore interesting literature, authors, fun people, good food and book-themed drink specials. Email bookgoose@tscpl.org for upcoming titles. [21+]

2.
Animated Hearts Film Series
Fridays in February, 6:30 p.m.
Coraline
Friday, February 5, 2016 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium 101BC Movies
A hidden door reveals a parallel world where Coraline has everything she desires… until she isn’t allowed to leave. Based on the book by Neil Gaiman. 2009 | Rated PG | 100 minutes

Persepolis

Friday, February 12, 2016 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium 101BC Movies
A coming-of-age story of a precocious and outspoken young Iranian girl that begins during the Islamic Revolution. Based on the graphic novels by Marjane Satrapi. 2007 | Rated PG-13 | 95 minutes

The Illusionist
Friday, February 19, 2016 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium 101BC Movies
A French magician finds himself out of work and travels to Scotland. While performing in a village pub he encounters a young girl who will change his life forever. 2010 | Rated PG | 85 minutes

Inside Out
Friday, February 26, 2016 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium 101BC Movies
Inside Riley’s head, she is guided by her emotions: Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Sadness. Growing up is hard, and learning that there’s more than just happiness in life is a big lesson for her to learn. 2015 | Rated PG | 94 minutes

3.
R.E.A.D. Dogs
Sundays in February and March | 2-3 p.m. | The Story Zone Kids
Dogs are man’s best friend, but they’re also a child’s best listener. Grab your favorite book and read to the Reading Education Assistance Dogs.

4.
Tax Talk – 2015 Changes & Tips for Filing
Wednesday, February 10, 2016 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Menninger Room 206 Adults
Discuss concerns about filing your 2015 income tax with an experienced tax professional from H&R Block. Learn about any changes to the tax laws and do a quick checkup on your 2015 taxes.
5.
I Want My 80s Crafts!
Thursday, February 11, 2016 | 6-8 p.m. | World Cup Espresso, 1501 SW 21st St. Adults
Create a nostalgic memento or revive old favorites with a new twist: this time we’ll be making Shrinky-Dinks! Warm beverages and pastries available for purchase from our partner.

6.
Roy G.Biv
February 12 – March 27, 2016 | Alice C. Sabatini Gallery Art
See the spectrum! Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet – discover the beauty of Roy G. Biv. Travel through a rainbow of artworks and explore the wonder of color in this especially vivid exhibit.

Second Friday opening reception – February 12, 5:30 p.m.

7.
Celebrate Black History Month
Saturday, February 20, 2016 | 1-5 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium 101BC Adults
African-American heritage and culture in all its richness will be told through music, performance and displays of genealogy and history. Get inspired to explore further, and leave with tools to help you connect with your own family roots.

8.
Fidget With It
Mon & Tues, March 7 & 8 | 4-5 p.m. | The Edge – Teen Room Teens
If you like to learn by doing, then stop by The Edge Monday and Tuesday during Teen Tech Week. You will find a hands-on experience with our techie toys. There will be a new technology item to fidget with each day.

Teen Tech Week is March 6-12

9.
NCAA Bracket Challenge
Sunday, March 13, 2016 | Noon-9 p.m. | Adults
Fill out a bracket in the library’s very own tournament challenge starting March 13 until the start of games March 17. A prize will be given to the winner, including having your name displayed on a plaque in the Sports Neighborhood.
10.
Kelly Werts & Friends
Sunday, March 13, 2016 | 3-4 p.m. | Marvin Auditorium Music
Folk singer Kelly Werts will be joined by his trio, Tiny Flowers, which includes accordionist Diana Werts and percussionist Allan Winkler, to play an acoustic, eclectic mix of vintage Americana.
In 2015, the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library was recognized as one of the top three libraries in the nation with a LibraryAware Award for its work in the community. The library is committed to supporting the economic vitality of our community, nourishing its spirit, imagination and culture and providing resources to make sure every child is ready for kindergarten.

###

The post 10 events in February and March appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Bragging saves advertising. – American Proverb

It’s time to toot our own horn, because the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library has been recognized as a 4-Star Library by Library Journal. Star libraries are identified based on the success of their output – circulation numbers, program attendance and community use of services. This is the first year that the library has earned 4 stars.

Thanks, Topeka, for checking out items, coming to library events and using our services – you’ve helped to make your library great.

The post 4 Star Status! appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Changes are coming to the library’s digital music lineup. The library’s subscription to Freegal Music was discontinued October 31, 2015. Customers will have access to digital music albums through hoopla and to physical music albums through our large music CD collection, which consists of over 11,000 CDs.

“The library strives to offer our customers the best selection in our digital music platforms,” says Scarlett Fisher-Herreman, tech services supervisor. “Hoopla is proving to be a product that grows with the needs of our customers and offers benefits beyond what Freegal has available.”

Library customers who frequently download music from the library might have a few questions. We’ve tried to answer them here. But if you don’t see your question responded to below, feel free to get in touch with us.

• Will I be able to download and keep songs or albums with hoopla like I can with Freegal?
  • Answer:  you can download entire albums on hoopla. They stay on your mobile/tablet device or computer for 7 days and then automatically return to hoopla.  You don’t “keep” the music permanently on hoopla but instead borrow it like you would a physical item checked out from the library. There are no late fees for hoopla checkouts.
• Will I get to keep the songs I already downloaded from Freegal?
  • Answer:  it depends on how you manage the music files.
    • Music downloaded via a computer (Mac or PC):  Yes, you get to keep the music. It should already be in a file(s) on your computer.
    • Music downloaded/accessed through Freegal app on Apple devices:  Music needs to be backed up from the device to iTunes in order to be permanently retained. Freegal provides instructions on how to do this in the FAQ on the Freegal website. The friendly librarians at Las Vegas Clark County District Library have also created helpful instructions.
    • Music downloaded/accessed through Freegal app on Android devices:  music needs to be transferred to a computer or to another file in order to be permanently retained. Freegal provides instructions on what to do with Android devices.
    • Make sure to transfer your music out of the app into a designated file or other music management program. Access to library Freegal accounts will end on October 31.

    

• How much music is on hoopla?
  • 30,089 labels
  • 134,416 artists
  • 258,769 albums
• How do I know what music is on hoopla?
  • Answer: explore hoopla music or look up an album or artist in the library catalog. We import thousands of music records for hoopla each month into the library catalog.

The post Changes to downloading music appeared first on Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Misty Kruger, Public Information, Shawnee County Health Agency, stressed that bed bugs are more of a “health nuisance, not a health risk.”

“We have been contacted by the library regarding bedbugs and they are working to address them,” said Kruger. “They have taken the necessary steps at this time, and we remind residents that bedbugs are not known to carry disease. Bedbugs are considered a public health annoyance and people should most be concerned about an allergic reaction or a secondary infection from itching the bite sites.”

The library has also conferred with other libraries on their process of managing and treatments. Bed bugs are a growing problem in public buildings around the United States due to global travelers. (source: www.cdc.gov)

The library contacted Schendel Pest Services, who regularly services the library, for an onsite inspection and treatment of all library facilities and vehicles. The Schendel inspection will also include the use of “Scout,” a specially trained bedbug canine to do the sniff test for bugs.

“The Library is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all who visit,” said Gina Millsap, library CEO. “As an organization committed to free access to information and education, we will use this as an opportunity to not only address this problem but to create awareness of what is a widespread challenge in communities all over the U.S.”

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