Last Thursday, April 9, SPARC hosted the annual Staff Appreciation Party for all Smithsonian Libraries employees. The SIL staff, armed with goodies, trekked across the Mall to the National Museum of American Indian’s Patron’s Lounge, which boasts amazing views of the Capitol and the U.S. Botanic Garden. Amidst platters towering with french toast, trays piled high with scones and Starbucks coffee boxes filled the brim, lively conversations could be heard at each table of SIL staffers. SPARC members had assembled the perfect centerpiece for the tables: five Peeps chilling on plastic Easter grass. After all, what can say “spring” better than a Peep??
Not losing sight of the “appreciation” part of the event, four SIL staff members were recognized for their exceptional service to the Libraries: Kathryn Phillips won the Keystone Award, Kathy Hill took home the Lifesaver Award, Sheila Riley swept up the Heart of Gold Award and Sharon Layne scored the Superwoman Award. All of these ladies were nominated by co-workers who realized their special dedication to SIL over the past year. In addition to these peer recognition awards, a few lucky SIL staffers walked away with Starbucks gift cards, which were given out through a drawing by Melinda Jane Tomerlin and Phu Pham.
The Staff Appreciation Party was a wonderful time for SIL staff to relax, get away from the office and get to know each other better. Thanks to SPARC members for organizing this great event!




