Emily Swistak: 2021 candidate for Lisle Library District board
Four candidates are running for three, 4-year terms on the Lisle Library District board of trustees in the April 6 election. They are incumbents Marjorie Bartelli, Liz Sullivan and Emily Swistak, and newcomer Anne Chang-Blaeske.
The Daily Herald asked the candidates about issues facing the district.
In-person early voting with paper ballots is now available at the DuPage County Fairgrounds Building 5, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. In-person early voting with touch-screen voting begins March 22 at locations throughout the county. Learn more at www.dupageco.org/earlyvoting/.
Bio
Town: Unincorporated Naperville
Age: 46
Occupation: Current stay-at-home mom (while my children are remote-learning), former preschool aide, former high school teacher/administrator
Civic involvement: Lisle Library District board since 2017
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for the library board, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is it?
A: Having served as a trustee on the LLD board since 2017, I was involved in the development of the current Strategic Plan (2019-2022). We are now working on a capital improvement project aligned with our Strategic Plan's key objectives. I am excited to be a part of this project, originally stemming from the planning of the Facility Steering Committee of 2012, to better meet the needs of our diverse community.
Some of the improvements I am most passionate about are: providing adequate restrooms throughout the facility (including family restrooms/nursing room), improving the entrance to both the library campus and the facility, adding a drive-up window, creating enhanced meeting rooms/study spaces, and updating technology to create a 21st Century library experience.
As a parent of school-aged children, I love that our library offers 24/7 resources, is open 7 days/week, has evening hours, and offers engaging programming for all ages. I'd also like to ensure that the LLD maintains its status as the community's information, resource, and instruction center.
Q: Did your library continue to adequately serve its constituents during the disruptions caused by the pandemic? If so, please cite an example of how it successfully adjusted to continue providing services. If not, please cite a specific example of what could have been done better.
A: In the middle of March 2020, the LLD closed the facility but maintained its vital connection with the community through the immediate implementation of registering for a library card online, affording new library cardholders instant access to the library's variety of online offerings already enjoyed by all cardholders.
The LLD continued to maintain their outside book drops so that patrons could return materials at their convenience. LLD staff created online content for patrons (tutorials, programming, read-alouds) as well as take-home craft kits, for patrons of all ages, made available with contactless curbside pickup.
Patrons have been able to request materials via the library's website, app, and phone and then schedule a time to pick up those materials curbside since May 2020. In July 2020, the LLD reopened its doors to the public with modified hours and myriad safety protocols in place (PPE, signage, acrylic barriers, etc.). The library is now open its full hours while continuing to follow safety protocols.
Q: Has your library seen a significant shift in the use of online materials? Has it adequately bolstered and promoted its online collection?
A: The Lisle Library District increased the number of popular titles on digital platforms to satisfy demand. The staff also greatly increased the amount of staff-created videos and tutorials. The LLD immediately implemented online library card registration, a new service, so that all residents could gain access to online offerings.
Q: In light of our experiences with COVID-19, what safeguards/guidelines should you put in place to address any future public health crises?
A: Facility planning for more flexibility, should the library have to reorganize space again due to future public health crises. Installing a drive-through window to accommodate curbside service and to also assist those who may have mobility challenges.
More efficient HVAC system and accessibility to fresh air/windows. Proper patron seating options that allow for social distancing, as needed. More outdoor programming space that will also allow for appropriate social distancing. Proper staff office space in accordance with social distancing protocols.
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: As the chair for the Personnel & Policy Committee of the Lisle Library District board of trustees since 2019, I have led efforts to: eliminate overdue fines; provide a safe and healthy environment consistent with public health guidelines; promote and encourage environmental responsibility; and establish clear standards of conduct and ethics guidelines for LLD trustees. I am also currently serving as the secretary to the board.
Q: Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it
A: Yes. Since 2012. I use it multiple times per week.