First, say a little bit about yourself.
I lived in Westborough for many years with my husband. He died in 2020, so I am starting a new chapter in my life. I am a speech pathologist, and I have worked in early intervention for 35 years. I specialize in working with autistic toddlers and their parents. I lived in France for five years many years ago. I am planning a trip there this spring, so I am enjoying brushing up on my French.
Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?
I love the library, and I go there frequently to keep up with my reading. The library provides many valuable, creative services that I want to support. I participate in the library’s weekly online meditation class. It’s a wonderful group of people with a talented teacher. The library provided valuable community support during the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic when we were watching Italy, I saw that Italy went into lockdown, so I immediately checked out 30 books from the library. When the library had its tent outside where we could pick up books, I made regular visits. I followed the plans for the library renovation, and I was disappointed when it did not pass. I am interested in finding ways to support the library in ways that can receive support from our town.
What do you think would be the best way to keep the library as a viable resource for years to come?
1) Continue and expand programming for teens and young children.
2) Survey families to learn what supports parents might find useful.
3) Partner with Senior Center to offer some activities there until we can offer accessibility.
4) Upgrade the digital system.
5) The physical plant needs to be safe and accessible.
6) Ensure respectful treatment of library staff
7) Schedule a regular time to chat with people at the senior center.
8) Explore whether other groups in town would also welcome a regular time to be kept abreast and share their opinions about library matters.
9) Create new ways to connect with residents so we can work as a team to plan and carry out new ventures for the library.
With the defeat of the Town Meeting warrant article to expand and renovate the library, the Library Building Committee and the Trustees have switched their focus to repair work. What do you consider to be the “most needed” repairs.
Based on what I know so far, it would seem that the eight HVAC units need to be repaired since they are 40 years old and there is a risk of another fire caused by their aging equipment.
