Delmar
Bethlehem resident: 37 years
Occupation
Retired science teacher
Community Service/Volunteer Work
WMHT RISE, Ronald McDonald House-recent applicant, New York State United Teachers Retiree Council 10 Ambassador
Other pertinent details
I am a fairly accomplished home cook and artisan bread baker. I am also a prolific reader and really enjoy a good mystery.
Experience and goals
What do you consider your most meaningful career accomplishment?
The lasting positive impact I have had with former students and colleagues.
What skills do you bring to your tenure on the board?
• An open mind
• A balanced and educated approach to decision making
• Punctuality
• An ability to listen and speak to community members, employees and colleagues
• Excellent attendance
These are in no particular order.
What are your goals as a board member?
My goal is to approach library issues in a balanced and common sense manner.
Views about libraries
How does a library best serve its community?
A library best serves its community by providing a balanced, robust collection which includes all members of the community. It should also provide avenues for research and an environment conducive to reading and learning.
What are the most important issues facing public libraries today?
Censorship
How are public libraries changing?
People look to libraries to provide information about all topics. That information should be in forms that any community member can access whether print or digital, in person or at home. The board should support and fund this access.
How have libraries influenced your life?
Libraries have been a constant source of information and entertainment for me. Without libraries, I would not have been able to achieve my goal of becoming a scientist and educator.
What do you like best about Bethlehem Public Library?
The accessibility it provides.
What is your vision for the future of this library?
I would like to make the library more sustainable both from an environmental and collection point of view.