Joshua Martin: 2023 candidate for Lisle Library District board

Bio

Town: Lisle

Age on Election Day: 39

Occupation: Healthcare supply chain director

Employer: No answer given

Previous offices held: None

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?

A: I am passionate about ensuring that our library remains a vital and thriving resource for all residents. In particular, I am committed to increasing the utilization of the library's digital services, as I believe that these resources have the potential to reach and engage an even broader audience.

As we've seen over the past few years, digital services have become increasingly important for individuals and communities alike. Whether it's accessing e-books, utilizing online databases, or participating in virtual events, these services have the power to connect people with the information and resources they need to thrive.

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

A: I believe that the library has seen an increase in the utilization of digital materials, and I aim to further improve those resources. If elected to the library board, I would work to awareness and increase the utilization of our library's digital services.

This would involve not only expanding our current offerings, but also promoting them more effectively to the community. I would work with library staff to ensure that our digital resources are user-friendly and accessible to all, and I would explore new ways of reaching out to those who may not yet be aware of what the library has to offer.

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 role of libraries in the electronic age will continue to be important, but it will evolve. Libraries will focus on providing digital resources, improving access to information, and fostering digital literacy. They will also play a critical role in preserving and curating digital collections. In addition, the physical spaces can still be incredibly useful for the community to engage and utilize as a digital base where other virtual services can be accessed

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: I believe that our platform speaks for itself: Strategically plan to meet community needs. Determine new and optimal ways to provide services to the community. Make connections with more community members to increase Library service utilization.

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

A: Yes, I have had a library card since I was 5 years old. Since I moved to Lisle in 2006 I have had a library card. I use the library card monthly if not more frequently, mainly for online resources and periodicals, as well as occasional audiobooks.

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: This is too broad a question to be answered in the brief space allotted. However, conflict and collaboration are key. If there is no dissent, there is no creativity or resolution. If a group cannot then work collaboratively overall and throughout, then progress will stall and patrons will be the ones at a disadvantage. It is very important to welcome all opposing viewpoints, and use sound rationale to reach agreeable outcomes.

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

A: I'm passionate about the library district, and will protect and expand its resources. Some candidates believe that the library is overfunded and wasteful. I see the Library as an institution worthy of continued investment; investment in the physical space, the physical catalog and the digital catalog. I will protect and develop the library to further improve an already beneficial resource.