We want to ensure that the library serves the people of the community by keeping business and transactions in the open. By focusing on transparency everyone can be certain that the library is conducting business in the appropriate manner and is following the law at all times. In addition, making sure library board meetings are live streamed will increase awareness, attendance at the meetings, and improve public participation with the library.

Libraries are often kept apart from the larger community and rarely thought about in the same way that a city hall, county board, or other government entity is. But if stronger partnerships are built between the library and other governmental entities, and even other area library districts, we can offer up a wider range of services and opportunities for residents. Combine that with stronger partnerships with community organizations and local businesses and you have the chance to make the library a true community hub of learning and growth.

The Plainfield Library District needs to raise $20 million for a new building. Every attempt to pass any sort of taxation referendum has failed, though, and with good reason. The library has not shown a strong long term plan with clear achievable goals to the people. The library needs to put together a plan that partners with the community, makes use of existing resources, and has an eye on basic revenue generating practices. Small things like making sure people who park at the library but aren’t using the facilities pay for parking and creating a space in the facility for a coffee shop or café to generate rent paint a different picture than simply asking for a tax increase. The library has to show that it has a vision for its place in the community in the next few years and far into the future.