Robert Shiffler: Candidate profile

Bio

Name: Robert Shiffler

City: Geneva

Office sought: Geneva Public Library trustee

Age: 72

Family: wife, Jane, and daughter, Emily

Occupation: retired Technical Manager, Caterpillar Inc.

Education: BSME, Iowa State University, and MBA, Loyola University of Chicago

Civic involvement: Geneva Library Foundation and Geneva Public Library District board of trustees

Previous elected offices held: Geneva Library trustee

Incumbent? If yes, when were you first elected? Yes, 2012

Issue questions

What are the most important issues facing your library district and how do you intend to address them? The most important work currently being undertaken by the District is the completion of the new $22 mil Library facility at 227 S. 7th Street and the transition of Library operations to the new facility later this year. If elected, I intend to stay closely involved in all aspects of the project to ensure that schedule and cost objectives are met and to ensure that operational startup occurs in a timely and efficient manner.

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

I have always been a strong supporter of libraries as a major asset in the community and an important factor in the quality of life of all residents. By serving on the Library Board, I can use my talents to help ensure the continuation of high quality library services for the residents of the Geneva Public Library District.

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 have served as Board President for the past 4+ years. During that time, I have worked to ensure that the Board operates effectively, addressing all required issues and projects in a timely and fiscally responsible manner. As Board President, I have been very heavily involved in all aspects of the building program, including land acquisition, the information campaign prior to the successful referendum, design completion, issuing building bonds, awarding of contracts, etc. The program is on schedule with all major objectives being met. The property tax impact of the bond issues is below the stated objective we promised before the referendum. I believe that continuity of leadership is very important at this point in the building program.

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

I have had a GPLD library card for over 40 years and am an avid and regular user of library services and resources.

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

A modern 21st century library functions as a community center and resource center, providing a wide range of services and resources for everyone, regardless of age, stage of life, or economic status, all while adapting to changes that are occurring at an ever-increasing rate. For example, libraries allow people to learn about, adapt to, and utilize ever-changing technology offerings. Services and resources are available for the personal user along with new services and resources focused on small and large business users. The new Library is designed to be flexible so that changes in services and resources can be made as necessary in the future.