CANDIDATE SUREVEY AND INTERVIEW RESPONSES
Attached is a summary
of their questions and my
responses.
Why are you running for this office?
As an avid reader and library supporter, my children have grown up visiting the library multiple times every week, participating in library programs, and checking out stacks of books. We love the library and want to see it protected as a resource for our community.
What are your qualifications for this office?
I have read the relevant statutes and enrolled in the library Trustee Certification course offered by ky.gov (though I understand it is not required). My professional background includes significant experience on committees and work groups, along with approximately ten years of government service. I am an involved member of my community with a strong interest in the library and in responsible government.
If elected, what are your goals?
The Ada Community Library Board has shown responsible stewardship, and with the community highly valuing our library, my main goal is to protect this goodwill and advocate for strong financial support of the library system.
What experience do you have serving on boards/commissions/non-profits?
While I lack specific board or commission experience, I previously worked for Casey Family Programs, a private, non-profit child welfare agency serving children in foster care and families affected by abuse and neglect, where I was actively involved in several committees.
Do you consider yourself fiscally conservative?
Yes, I believe in being careful with taxpayer money. However, I also recognize that resources like libraries and parks provide an exceptional return on investment when considering their extensive community use.
In your view, what is the purpose of government?
I believe in limited government and I strongly support the Constitution, including the freedoms of speech and assembly.
House Bill 710 allows library patrons the ability to request certain harmful books and materials to be located in the adult section or behind a counter to protect children. The library then has 30 days to make a decision on the future of the item. Do you support this law in its current form?
I am not campaigning on changing this law. Libraries have navigated this change and adapted. Because of this, while I feel like the law was anti-library, I don't think it needs to be changed now.
Regarding selecting library materials, the current library director, Mary DeWalt has stated, "the books go through a detailed selection process from start to finish. It's a policy that is set by the library board and is designed to guide pretty much the entire process." As a board member, what values would you use to inform a selection policy?
The Board establishes the selection policy, while the librarians do the detailed work of actual selection. My priority would be to maintain broad access to information and ensure the library offers resources that cater to diverse interests within the community. As a social worker, I recall helping a gay young adult find fiction books with gay characters and to me, this highlighted the importance of ensuring everyone is represented through the library's selections.
What steps would you take if you observed the director or library staff not complying with HB 710?
Library Trustees do not have a role in the direct supervision of library staff. If I observed something concerning I would share my observation with the library director.
Do you consider moving books to another section or placing them behind the counter "Book Banning"?
No, I feel this is a reasonable compromise.
What are your thoughts on libraries hosting controversial events such as drag queen story hours?
I wouldn't want to be surprised by an event - it should be clearly advertised in advance. I don't think wearing different clothes is inherently offensive and don't have a strong opinion on libraries hosting these. The American Library Association has an interesting series of articles about how events like these support marginalized members of our community.
How would you respond to parents at a library board meeting expressing concern regarding library materials?
Since people pay taxes, it's my job to take them seriously, even if their values don't align with my personal values.
The library board is responsible to hire and evaluate the director. What criteria would you prioritize in hiring and/or evaluating a director?
I would look for someone with significant experience and who is not aiming to rock the boat. Someone with a master's degree in library science and experience managing our libraries.
How would you respond if you observed the director hiring staff based on DEI criteria or a biased political agenda?
To avoid potential legal issues, it would be important to address any hiring practices that appear to be based on inappropriate criteria.