APD > Special to the Democrat
Tallahassee Democrat -- October 14, 2009
http://www.tallahassee.com/article/20091015/BUSINESS/910150327/1003
Frazier builds career one book at a time
By Jeff Saulich
Lyall Frazier's fascination with books and attention to detail have led him to a job he loves.
The Pensacola man, who has a developmental disability, has been working for the West Florida Public Library System for more than four years.
During October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities is highlighting the stories of Floridians like Frazier who are successfully employed in their communities.
Frazier receives supported employment services from Arc Gateway, which is funded by APD. He got his first on-the-job training in library science at Workman Middle School in Pensacola. Then he worked as a library volunteer at the University of West Florida for several years, before he was hired by the public library in 2005 as a part-time library clerk.
"Lyall checks material in and out for the patrons and collects fines," said Bill Nelson, the library system's head of circulation and Frazier's supervisor. "He also has a section of book shelving that he maintains, and also does other shelves as needed."
Known for his big smile and cheerful demeanor, Frazier doesn't let anything get past him. He remembers the condition of almost every item that is loaned out in order to detect damages – such as broken spines or water damage – when it is returned.
As for what aspects of his work he likes the most, Frazier replied, "I love them all. I love my job a lot! And the people I work with are very nice."
Frazier is looking to the future and hopes to attend college. He is taking classes at Pensacola Junior College to earn his General Educational Development diploma.
APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn and work in their communities. The agency annually serves about 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org.
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