Bonnie Dauer: 2023 candidate for St. Charles Public Library Board
Bio
Town: Wayne
Age on Election Day: 54
Occupation: Former Special Projects Cataloger for CARLI library system. Former Cataloging Librarian
Employer: Illinois Heartland Library System / St. Charles Public Library
Previous offices held: n/a
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: I believe a person should be involved in their community by volunteering their time and talents. Libraries mean a great deal to me as both a library user and former employee. I want to see the St. Charles Library thrive because it is the heart of the community in which I live.
Q: Has your library seen a significant shift in the use of online materials? Has it adequately bolstered and promoted its online collection?
A: While the St. Charles Public Library has a significant amount of materials online to which they are adding regularly, their recent promotions are focused on the collection of "things." It's a promotion called "Borrow the Unexpected." They will circulate items like binoculars, record players, ukuleles and bocce ball sets.
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: This electronic age is moving at a terrific and expensive pace. Just look at how we watch film - first it was theater only, then beta tapes, vcrs, dvds, blu-ray, 4K and streaming sprinkled in there. It is difficult to keep up. The role of the library is to keep up or even stay ahead of the trend while maintaining access to past technologies. I was excited to learn I can borrow a device to digitally record my home videos from a camcorder. Keeping up while maintaining access is prudent use of taxpayer money. The community can save funds by not having to purchase the latest technology as individuals but by having access to them, the community stays current and doesn't get left behind.
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 would like to make sure the entire community continues to feel that the St. Charles Public Library belongs to them. I would continue to advocate for the library at the various community meetings I attend.
Q: Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it?
A: I have had a library card since I was 6 years old. I use my St. Charles card at least weekly, whether I am checking out books for book club, or accessing movies through Kanopy.
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: I have been on various boards for over 20 years. If I should be elected, I would research items on the agenda and be prepared to give an opinion, to listen and ask questions. I have learned that withholding questions is a disservice to the people I represent. All of us have different perspectives, by voicing those opinions, we can find creative solutions.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: I believe the best candidates for this position are involved in the community and have library experience. I have experience working at the St. Charles public library, participating on several boards and volunteering in the community. My community involvement includes being a member of the St. Charles Library Foundation board and serving as the Vice President of the Village of Wayne Police Pension Board. This unique combination makes me very qualified for the position as library trustee. To learn more about me, please visit my website: www.electbonniedauer.info