Joy Symonds: 2021 candidate for Gail Borden Library District

Bio

City: Elgin

Age: 38

Occupation: Owner and Director of Community Engagement

Employer: Symonds-Madison Funeral Home

Civic involvement: President, board of directors, WIM Fox Valley; board of directors, Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin; board of directors, True Patriots Care; Patient Family Advisory Council, Advocate Sherman Hospital (2016-2020); volunteer, Elgin American Legion Post 57; Northern Kane Chamber of Commerce

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. When I moved to Elgin six years ago, I was immediately impressed by the size and breadth of programming offered at Gail Borden Library, located just three blocks from my home above our family business. I remember telling my husband, "I can't wait to have kids, walk together to the library, and enjoy all it has to offer!"

I am happy to report that six years later my family is a frequent patron of all three branches of Gail Borden Library, and it is one of our favorite destinations in Elgin. As the mother of young children, I look forward to being a voice for young families and early literacy.

Today's library is much more than a space of learning - it has expanded to become a true community center. As our local economy begins to recover from the global COVID-19 pandemic, the breadth of services offered by Gail Borden, including job search assistance and financial literacy programming, will be needed more than ever.

I am passionate about ensuring our library continues to be the best in the area and serves its patrons with the best quality programs and service. To serve as trustee would be an honor.

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. Gail Borden Library exceeded expectations as it transitioned to curbside pickup of materials and virtual programming with little to no notice when the pandemic required long-term building closures. It was impressive.

The one criticism I have is not for the library, but our state leadership. Over the past several months, the many inconsistencies in state restrictions have been mind-boggling. As it relates to libraries, it did not seem fair to have our buildings closed, but still have large discount stores open. Children could browse books at Meijer and Target, but not on their own library shelves?

I also remain concerned about the digital divide in our community. When all library materials have to be accessed or reserved virtually, how will that impact families without reliable internet access? What about families who don't have a reliable digital device?

Maintaining accessibility to library resources will be an important focus for me, if elected.

Q. Has your library seen a significant shift in the use of online materials? Has it adequately bolstered and promoted its online collection?

A. Gail Borden has seen a significant increase in online materials and programming. There are virtual programs for all ages, including story times, crafts, book discussions, and educational seminars.

Patrons can also access a variety of digital resources via the 24/7 library, including e-books, audio books, music and movies.

These resources are promoted online but also in the bimonthly library newsletter that is mailed to homes in the district.

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 a mom, small business owner and community leader, I am excited to work hard to ensure Gail Borden Library continues to be the best for generations to come.

My key priorities include:

• Maintaining high standards and safeguarding Gail Borden's reputation as a leader of libraries.

• Highlighting transparency and increasing accountability. The role of the board of trustees is to create and advance the library's long-term vision for success and ensure accountability.

I do not intend to be a passive Board Member. I will ask questions and work hard to educate myself. This will include seeking feedback from the public via Facebook Live about the issues before the Board.

• Access: I will work hard to ensure access to library services for vulnerable families, expanding community and business partnerships whenever possible.

• I intend to support fiscal stewardship and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. I will also advocate a freeze for Gail Borden's property tax levy.

I would love to see Gail Borden follow in the footsteps of Elgin Community College, which recently froze its levy at 2020 levels and returned excess funds to the taxpayers to aid in our local economic recovery.

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

A. I have had a Gail Borden library card for about four years. I believe I signed up in 2017 when my daughter was a baby, so we could join some early childhood programs at the library. Currently, I use it about every two weeks, if not more. We have a big stack of books about space, Valentine's Day, and backyard birds at home right now.