First, say a little bit about yourself.
I live in Westborough with my two kids. We love living here for so many reasons, including but not limited to the people, the excellent schools, youth sports and activities and access to the outdoors.
Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?
I am running for the Library Board of Trustees because I am a supporter of the library. Since the start of the pandemic, when my kids and I utilized the contactless drop off and pick up of books, my appreciation for the library has continued to grow. In spite of the fact that the building is over 100 years old and in need of many repairs and upgrades, the library has been able to adapt and support residents of all ages and backgrounds. It is a hub of our community, and it preserves our local history.
What do you think would be the best way to keep the library as a viable resource for years to come?
The physical structure of the library needs to be improved. The building needs to be safe and accessible to all. The library has outstanding dedicated staff members who need to be respected, appreciated and supported by all library patrons. If elected, I will seek feedback from all Westborough residents, including those who have not visited the library recently or who have not participated in programming, regarding how we can serve even more of the community.
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.
There is not an easy answer to this question. There are many base repairs that the library needs including HVAC, additional bathrooms and upgrades to the two existing bathrooms, electrical upgrades and data/power infrastructure upgrades. Some of these will trigger required upgrades which will ensure that the building is accessible to all. The Library Building Committee is working with a prequalified expert group of consultants, designers and construction professionals to determine the best course of action in terms of library repairs and/or renovation.
I seek your vote for this important position on March 14, 2023, and I welcome any questions before then. Thank you.
