Lisa Stankus: 2023 candidate for Ela Area Public Library Board (2 year-term)
Bio
Town: Hawthorn Wood
Age on Election Day: 60
Occupation: Director of Road to Learning, a tutoring center for individuals with dyslexia
Employer: Quentin Road Baptist Church
Previous offices held: N/A
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for the library board, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
A: I have been an educator in this community for over 30 years, working with struggling readers and learners of all ages. I know that many of them will not step into a library. I understand this perspective. When I ask them why they don't go to the library, they share that they get overwhelmed and don't know where to even begin. We have a good library system. I am running with the hope to help make it even better. I want to help bridge that gap. I want to help readers and struggling readers of all ages to want to come to the library.
Q: Has your library seen a significant shift in the use of online materials? Has it adequately bolstered and promoted its online collection?
A: Not yet being on the library board, I do not have access to this specific information. The library does have an online presence. However, I feel that it may not be as user friendly as it can be, specifically for people with learning disabilities.
Q: What do you see as the future of role of libraries in the electronic age? How well prepared is your library for meeting that role? What new steps must the library begin taking?
A: Without knowing the current budget, it is difficult for me to answer this question. While keeping within its given budget, I feel it is important for the library system to keep up with the advancements of technology, as well as stay current with all of the latest updates.
Q: 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.
A: I bring to the table my nearly 40 years of experience working with people with disabilities; especially dyslexia. My hope is that my professional background will prove helpful towards developing policies and programs that will benefit our children's program, materials, and specifically aim to provide more support for struggling readers; both young and old.
Q: Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it?
A: I do have a library card. When my children were young we would frequent the library. Now that I am a Grandma, I look forward to bringing my grandchildren to the library. My oldest grandson will be entering Kindergarten in the fall, and learning to read will be a priority.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your library board.
A: Throughout my career I have worked alone and in small and large groups. I currently have approximately 25 staff that work for me. It is important to me that everyone on my staff knows that they are important and valued. I often seek input from my staff regarding policies and procedures. I do not have all the answers. I also do not believe that the best solutions come from decisions made behind closed doors to those they are meant to help.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: My nearly 40 year career path and experiences in education provide a unique and important balance to the board. I work with, and on behalf of individuals that struggle to learn. I also provide support to their families and to teachers. On a personal note, I've lived in this wonderful community for almost 30 years, and raised our 3 sons here. Now, I am a grandparent. I want to take all that I have experienced here, personally and professionally, and help improve things even more for the next generation.