Glen Ellyn Library Board Election: Gina Meyers

Your Name:

Gina Meyers

Position Sought:

Library Trustee, Glen Ellyn Public Library

Campaign Contact Information:

grmeyers477@aol.com
630-858-2972

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

My fiduciary responsibility as trustee will be to ensure that our tax dollars are spent in the way that enables the library to provide services and programming within the operating budget by supporting initiatives that explore other alternative revenue streams --such as partnering with groups within the public and private sectors.

Your Home Address:

Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Family Members:

Tom Meyers, husband, 53
Theresa Meyers, daughter, 22
Claire Meyers, daughter, 21
Mark Meyers, son, 15

Education:

Hinsdale Central High School 1978
B. A in Translation and Business French, Northern Illinois Univ, DeKalb 1982
M.A in Adult, Higher, & Continuing Education, University of Illinois, Champaign, 1993

Current Occupation and Employer:

Self Employed
Owner/Founder of Learning Technologies
Professional Training & Consulting Services

Political Party Affiliation:

Independent

Why Are You Seeking Office?

I am passionate about the library and the integral role it plays in our community. As digital technology changes the way we interface with information, I want to ensure that the library continues to be a center for knowledge, ideas, books, programs, and technology that enrich, educate and empower every individual in our community.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am currently the President of the Friends of the Glen Ellyn library - an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to supplement tax and grant library revenue through various fundraising efforts. I have been involved with the Friends of the Library for over 10 years, starting on the Board as fundraising chair.

Issue 1: What do you believe are the biggest issues facing the Glen Ellyn Public Library?

I believe the biggest challenge facing libraries today--both operationally and in the types of collections and services provided—is how to strike a balance between keeping up with emerging trends towards virtual and digital formats while still providing physical materials and services that continue to meet the needs of ALL patrons. The library must accomplish this during a time when grants and other funding sources continue to decrease –which puts a strain on budgets and makes strategic planning more difficult.

Issue 2: With more readers using e-books and e-readers, what does the library need to do to stay relevant and a trusted source of information in the 21st Century?

As the role of the library changes, the library should seek additional ways to bring residents into the library--through more informational, educational, and cultural adult and children's programming/services. A key area is in educating/supporting patrons on how to locate and disseminate information using online tools.

Issue 3: What, if any, programs and resources do you feel the library should be offering that it doesn't? Or update for patrons?

I would like to see more educational classes on understanding and using technologies (as noted above) as society moves quickly to an online resource / communication format. This is particularly important for older generations who may not be as comfortable using digital devices and computers to perform such tasks as paying bills, looking up health information, etc.