Continuing Advocacy for Libraries

For the past three years, I've had the pleasure and privilege to serve on the Board of Trustees for the New City Library. This has been a rewarding and eye-opening experience as I continue to learn more about all the great things the library does for our community as well as the challenges libraries face across the country. That's why I'm excited to continue working and advocating for the library with another term.

During my tenure on the board, I've served on committees for Personnel & Finance, Buildings & Grounds, and Policy & Planning. Over the past two years, I've held the position of Secretary, handling board communication to and from the public and approving the minutes of each meeting. I also saw the New City Library complete its lengthy renovation and re-open with some amazing improvements including additional meeting rooms, study nooks, and a maker space.

The work isn't done though. Just as one project ends, another begins. There are still needs including a generator, new windows, and more, which will keep us busy. Plus, the library is putting together its new plan of service. The last one had to do with the renovation. This one is still in the works after taking a survey from the community. Since I'm on the Policy & Planning Committee, I'll help play a part in shaping that.

In addition to serving on the Board of Trustees for the New City Library, this January I'll be joining the Board of Trustees for the Ramapo-Catskill Library System. This is the organization that supports New City Library and 45 other libraries across Rockland, Orange, Ulster, and Sullivan counties in gathering grant money from the state, handling logistics and delivery of books and other items between the libraries, and IT service. I'm excited to expand my work and support of libraries with this addition.

Libraries are one of the few "third spaces" in the world. This is a space that's not your home or work that you can go to and feel welcome. Sure, there's the local Starbucks or the mall, but the library is a place you can go and spend time without being expected to spend any money. You can enjoy a book, participate in a program, or study for a test and no one will ask you to buy anything.

Additionally, libraries are like the Swiss Army Knife of the community, continually asked to do more with less. There are libraries that will help you apply for your passport or learn how to use your new phone. They're much more than just books. That's something that should be cherished and protected. I'm looking forward to doing just that with another term on the New City Library Board of Trustees.