MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. -- Three candidates have announced that they are seeking five year term trustee positions at the Mt. Kisco Public Library. Martha Glantz, Irene Vasquez and Jacqueline T Vedder are currently running uncontested for three open seats. Mt. Kisco voters can sign the candidates petitions at the library's check-out desk. The library has released biographies about themselves stating why they want to serve on the library board. Below is a copy of their statements.
The following questions were asked of each candidate:
Why would you like to serve as a member of the Library Board?
What strengths, abilities, and experiences can you bring that will make you an effective Board member?
Martha Glantz
"Reading and books are very important to me and I believe that a free public library is a cornerstone of an effective democracy. We can escape to different places, experience new things, be exposed to new ideas, and learn new things all from reading a book. It is critical that we protect our free library system so that all residents have the opportunity to use the library and experience the wonder of books.
In my job I work with many boards of directors especially in the not-for-profit world. I see how they help oversee the organization and ensure that it remains true to its mission and operating in an effective manner. Because I believe that as a country we need to have libraries and books accessible to all, being on the Library Board would allow me to facilitate the continued success of the Mt. Kisco library.
I have over 35 years of work experience in human resources working in both the corporate environment and as a consultant. As a human resources professional I understand how individuals are motivated and how to effectively organize work, processes, and reward systems for optimum performance. I have been a member of two home owner association boards and often brought my human resources experiences to bear in how the board functioned and how we addressed human resources issues.
I am well aware of the responsibilities of board members; in fact work with boards on ensuring that they have the appropriate procedures and policies in place and have helped boards to conduct annual performance assessments."
Irene Vasquez
"It's a great day in the neighborhood. When I heard that the Mount Kisco Public Library had an open position for Library Board of Trustees I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
As an avid reader I believe in what the library stands for and the wonderful services it offers our community.
I have been in management for over 15 years. My degree is in accounting and management with human resources emphasis. I have extensive budget, planning and policy and procedure experience. I have great knowledge of many software packages and am very computer savvy. I can access situations with an open mind. I am a resident of the community who wants the best for our community. I especially would like to see the Library create a teen program and more electronic devices available with training classes.
We have a beautiful facility that all our surrounding neighbors can utilize!!!"
Jacqueline T Vedder
"I have always enjoyed spending time in a library. Whether it was to do research or to visit libraries while vacationing in other cities, I always found a certain comfort level surrounded by books. From an early age, I was an avid reader and still continue to be one. Therefore, it should be no surprise that I have a BA in French and Education and a MA in French Literature.
My professional career was spent teaching in public and private schools in New Jersey and New York. My affiliations in New York were: RIppowam CIsqua School, Horace Greeley High School, and The Harvey School (where I was the Modern Language Chairperson). I retired in 2009 and since that time have volunteered my services in the community. For a short while, I spent time at Neighbor's Link and the Boys and Girls Club, but I have decided to focus my efforts to the senior population of Mount Kisco and have volunteered to teach French and Spanish classes at the Fox Senior Center, as well as drive for FISH (a service that provides transportation for senior citizens to medical appointments).
I feel that as a Trustee I could combine my passion for books with my commitment to volunteer my services to the community. I am excited about the new building and the attempts at new services that the library is providing. Also, I think it is essential that the library continue to research and use technology, and I am personally looking forward to "borrowing" books on my Kindle. What a challenging and interesting time to become involved with this library! I look forward to the opportunity, if elected as Trustee."
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