MTP Library Central

This series of four book discussions highlights fictional literature about the Civil War era. Discussion leader Dr. Michael Jarret, Penn State English Professor, will help expose readers to new authors and deepen the reading experience.

The first discussion will take place on Tuesday, February 22 at 6:30 PM in the Morgan Program Center at the Manheim Township Public Library. This discussion's featured book is James McBride's Song Yet Sung.

Inspired by historical figures like Harriet "Moses" Tubman and slave trader Patty Cannon, this story follows a wounded runaway slave as she learns "the code" -- the language of the "gospel train" for slaves on the run - in songs, quilts, and the music of a blacksmith's hammer - and dreams of a song yet sung that is supposed to lead her and others to freedom.

Future discussions to include:

E.L. Doctorow's The March
Tuesday, March 22 @ 6:30 PM

Edward P. Jone's The Known World
Tuesday, April 19 @ 6:30 PM

Core Vidal's Lincoln
Tuesday, Mary 24 @ 6:30 PM

Register on the MTPL website - www.mtpl.info - and then stop in the library for a FREE copy of the next book.

This year the outstanding Library Staff award was given to Janet Bailey, employee at the Manheim Township Public Library.  Bailey has been affiliated with the Manheim Township Library for over 12 years.  From 1998 – 2005 she served as one of the library’s volunteers.   Then in 2005 she was hired as the Branch coordinator, a capacity in which she served through 2007.   She currently holds the title of Operations Manager of the Manheim Township Public Library.

According to Katrina Anderson, MTPL Director, “Janet Bailey is the heart of the library!  Her presence at the front desk, as well as behind the scenes, makes a difference to both patrons who are recipients of her excellent service, as well as staff and volunteers who echo my respect and admiration for her.   She is the glue that binds us and the attraction that motivates many volunteers to continue service.” 

Initiated in 2008, this award is presented to a library staff member who has provided excellence in public library services in Lancaster County.

Former MTPL Board Member, Lois Morgan, was honored last evening at the Library System of Lancaster County's Annual Board member as the Trustee of the Year.

Lois Morgan is a life-long Manheim Township resident and a Millersville University graduate with a teaching degree in English.  She is an active member of the community who has mentored and served as role-model to all who have worked with her in seeing that the Township’s new library project was completed.  Her generosity, along with her steadfast conviction that a new library would be a valuable asset to Manheim Township and its neighboring communities, was instrumental in fulfilling this mission.  She also served on the new library capital campaign committee and was instrumental in seeing that the dream for a new library was fulfilled.

The Trustee Recognition Award was established in 2004 to recognize trustee achievement for Lancaster County libraries in the areas of preservation, growth and development.  Boards made up of community volunteers who ensure that access to information and library services are delivered to county residents govern public libraries in Lancaster County.