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Theresa 'Terry' Seyring: 2023 candidate for Schaumburg Township District Library Board

Bio

Town: Schaumburg

Age on Election Day: 69

Occupation: Retired elementary school teacher

Employer: N/A

Previous offices held: Two, 4-year terms as Schaumburg Township Library Board trustee

Q&A

Q: Why are you running for the library board, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

A: As a candidate, I am often asked this question as well as "What do you want to change at the libraries?" My answer is "I want to maintain our 5-Star library system." Our patrons expect nothing less. Our community literally uses the word "LOVE" when referring to their library. They call out to the staff and to us in the parades. I also love our library. As a steward for the Schaumburg Township District Library, I will not let its reputation or accreditation slip.

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 Library has seen a growing increase in the use of online materials particularly during Covid. Patrons familiar with our online data bases, streaming materials, newspapers, magazines, and subscription services used them even more, and those who never used online resources discovered new platforms. Patrons enjoy downloading books on their own devices. The library also promotes our services through social media, our print guides, onsite training, our website, and by educating our staff regarding resources. We have also extended our WIFI into the parking lot and worked with the Village to bring WIFI to the Gazebo area.

Q: What do you see as the future of role of libraries in the electronic age? How well prepared is your library for meeting that role? What new steps must the library begin taking?

A: The Library must provide the means to access information through the internet with technology and broadband access. We also provide patrons with the knowledge to use what is available to them. We are planning a second floor renovation at Central Library which, among other things, will enable us to upgrade our technology training, our digital studio, and provide space for innovation. We will continue to monitor new trends and topics including Artificial Intelligence.

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 Treasurer for 4 years, I have a good handle on our finances, budget, spending, and investments. I meet with our Financial Director each month and present a report each board meeting. During Covid, I supported and voted for the $1.5 million abatement to taxpayers due to services we couldn't provide. I am Chairman of the Finance Committee. Chair of the Student Advisory Trustee Committee to select students for communication with our 3 high schools. Chair of the new Art Committee to select appropriate pieces for Library spaces. Selected by Chairman of Personnel Committee to work with management on updating policy in the new Employee Handbook.

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

A: I moved to Schaumburg in 1974 and acquired a card around that time. I am a very frequent visitor to the library for pleasure and business. (I always look for history and biographies in particular!)

Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your library board.

A: People who know me would say I am very non-confrontational. I do my homework regarding issues. I come prepared to listen and discuss. I have been a member or chaired many committees over almost 8 years and always worked well with other trustees, staff, and management. Board members don't always agree on a policy or topic, but I am always respectful to my fellow trustees.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?

A: I have nearly 8 years of institutional knowledge and experience to offer. I am actively working to maintain our highly accredited status. I am able to devote the necessary amount of time to do the job of Trustee. Patrons and staff will see me at a large number of library events, programs, in-service training, legislative meet-ups, State of the Village addresses for the 3 mayors of the communities we serve, just to name a few. I am easily accessible. I also participate in online seminars with the Illinois Library Association and the American Library Association for continued trustee education. I am passionate about this work, and I feel my experience helps make me an asset for the library.

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