Joseph Scianna, Jr.: Candidate profile

Bio

Name: Joseph Scianna, Jr.

City: Island Lake

Office sought: Wauconda Library Trustee

Age: 55

Family: wife and three children

Occupation: disabled

Education: bachelor's degree in ministerial studies

Civic involvement: limited due to ongoing foot problems

Previous elected offices held: deacon, St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois

Incumbent? If yes, when were you first elected? No

Website: none

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=721169078

Twitter: none

Issue questions

What are the most important issues facing your library district and how do you intend to address them?

In my opinion the most important issues facing the library district is a lack of a significant part of the community's optimally utilizing the full and real benefits that the library has to offer. I intend to address this, as I already try, by being a positive and vocal supporter of the library and it's goals, and by doing what I can to support the excellent and often overlooked efforts of the library board.

Why are you running for office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what is it?

I am running for office because I can. I am currently unemployed as I deal with a persistent foot problem, but I have a luxury of time that many do not possess. I am passionate about the library's function in the community as a vital part of our rights as citizens. The issue that motivates me the most is toward more general utilization of our library's resources?

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 possess a unique zeal for the function of the library. As a person whose opportunities might have been somewhat limited, I would gladly share this dynamic on a greater scale in my role as a trustee.

Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it?

I do have a library card; I've held one since I've lived here. I use it sporadically, but I grab a lot of materials when I do.

What impact have economic and technological changes had on libraries? How does a library remain relevant? How should its role in the community change?

Well, the library in my eyes makes every effort to keep up with technology on every level. Economically, our support comes from taxes, and unfortunately I see on social media some criticism of taxes used to fund library goals. But in my opinion, the library represents our biggest bang for the buck. An investment in the library is an investment in our community, our children, our selves. A library remains relevant by constantly seeking new way to continue its mission, to inform. It's role in the community should change as demands change for the means to deliver that information. It's both challenging and exciting.