Merry Quinn: Candidate Profile

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Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioQA Bio City: Lake VillaWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Lake Villa Library Board Age: 51Family: Mother, Kay Dickman Husband, Scott KrajniakOccupation: School AdministratorEducation: BA- Secondary Education- History MS- Educational Psychology MA- Administrative Leadership EdD- Educational LeadershipCivic involvement: Lake Villa District Library Board 2003-2007 Rotary International 2013-2014 Member IACAC, NACAC, LCCA, ASCD CROP Walk participant 2005-2013Elected offices held: Lake Villa District Library Board TrusteeQuestions Answers Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is it?I'm running to ensure that our community continues to be afforded the excellent service they have received to this point. Being a member of the board from 2003-2007 allowed me the opportunity to learn first hand about the library and what it has to offer. I had the opportunity to meet some incredibly dedicated people during my time previously on the board.If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are a non-incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.I hope to provide continued support for the library and enable collaboration with the community and the schools. As a previous administrator in District 117, we began some awesome work and sharing of services between the schools and the library. I want to continue that effort and support that initiative. Each entity giving back to the other is vital for the community. LVDL personnel became visible fixtures within the schools providing additional support and resources for students. The library opened its doors to district students for mid-term, final, and AP exam preparation. Study areas were made available to students when the schools were closed. LVDL also began community outreach services providing assistance to those in need and unable to physically visit the library. I'd like to see that service continue and expand.Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it?Yes, I have a card and have held it since 2003. I don't use it as much as I would like. I have a new Kindle and am looking forward to reading more extensively.Space is an issue at many libraries. If that's the case at your library, would your solution be to expand the physical plant or make room by doing away with parts of the collection that technology has made less critical? Explain.This is a pressing issue at LVDL. I will reference the Needs Assessment that has been completed and available online at LVDL.org as well as rely heavily upon the library personnel for recommendations. Their insights would be crucial when making space related decisions. They have hired StudioGC, an architectural firm to assist with the future planning for the library. I would listen to their advice based upon the Needs Assessment and determine the best path to follow in a fiscally responsible manner.What impact have economic and technological changes had on libraries? How does a library remain relevant? How should its role in the community change?Libraries, similar to schools, must keep up to date with the changes in technology and accessibility to families. LVDL must remain current with trends and services. Technological trends such as digital publishing, mobile computing, self check areas, mobile spaces for patrons as well as employees, and being able to connect people to those resources and services are critical. I'm confident that LVDL personnel are on track with current and future programming for early childhood literacy, teens and young adults, and lifelong learning for all. There is a steady population growth in our regional area. We need to be out in front to meet those growing needs. Changes proposed must keep economic expenses in mind while providing needed services and spaces for all.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?It's important to give back to any community. Volunteerism is a part of who I am. I am passionate about the Lake Villa-Lindenhurst Community and hope that I can contribute to the vitality and future growth of the LVDL.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Archbishop Cupich from the Chicago Archdiocese. He is a man of integrity and vision. He has been given a huge challenge and addressing each one.What's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?Honesty and a strong work ethic. My father was a school teacher, counselor, and coach; my mom a hospital risk manager.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?Despite some struggles, I'm pretty content with things they way they are in my life right now. No do overs.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?I loved school and learning. I'm passionate working with people when problem-solving and collaborating to find solutions to issues. Communication is key!If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?Learn from your mistakes. Life is all about moving forward and growing. Errors happen but if reviewed carefully hopefully those choices become fewer in time.