Herbert Gross: Candidate profile

Bio

Name: Herbert Gross

City: Elgin, IL

Office sought: Gail Borden Public Library District Trustee

Age: 82

Family: Medina Gross, Wife and 2 adult children.

Occupation: Retired, Clinical Psychologist

Education: MA from NIU, AB University of Chicago.

Civic involvement: Elgin Image Commission, Gail Borden Trustee, Executive Board Kiwanis, Elgin Cultural Arts Commission.

Previous elected offices held: Gail Borden Trustee, President Local 26 AFSCME

Incumbent? If yes, when were you first elected?

Gail BordenTrustee - 2008 to present, President Local 26 of AFSME - 1988 to 1991, President Elgin Theatre Company -2007 to 2014.

Website:

Facebook: Herb Gross

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Issue questions

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

So far the State of Illinois has not changed its support of our library system. Nevertheless income problems of our customers have impacted our library by increased scrutiny of taxes. I will attempt to address this issue by continuing our extremely low per capita expenses while continuing our award winning services and programs.

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

I have always been interested problem solving and technology. In the past I have suggested that the streets in the parking lot be one way and that parts of special exhibits be purchased such as Lego blocks and 3D printers.

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.

See above. So far the Library District has excellent programs for which we have received many awards. At the same time we have one of the lowest per capita budgets ($86) of Libraries our size and even some of smaller and larger size. I have always voted to increase programs and services, while at the same time being concerned about expenses.

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

I had a love of libraries since receiving my first "CHILD" library card at age 5 in Manhatten, N.Y. I am in the Library at least 3 or 4 times a week to borrow books and ebooks. I was a Volunteer Greeter for over 5 years and carried concerns and suggestions from customers to the Board.

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

We are fortunate in that the State has not significantly reduced its support of our Library and that we are recognized as worthy by the number of awards as well as grants that we receive. We have evolved from a Library loaning books to a real Community Center and even an educational resource with classes ranging from resume skills to Microsoft Office programs to Ebay skills. I will continue to advocate for new technology. I will work hard to ensure that its partnership with the community increases and that its role continues to change by providing increasing services to the community. One example of this is the Bookmobile we recently punched with contributions in part from community organizations.