The Friday Follow-up: Saying “Thank You” to Our Dynamic Board President

Denise: After retiring from teaching in the Hudson Valley and moving to Elmira, I wanted to do meaningful volunteer work. I met someone socially who was on the CCLD Board and she told me about STLS. I was invited to tour the facility and meet the sitting trustees and I knew it was a good fit for me so I joined the board. As a young girl, my hometown library was my sanctuary and reading opened up the world to me so I’ve always loved libraries. I’m happy to say my children and grandchildren feel the same way!

Brian: You served the maximum allowed time as STLS board president? What did you want to see accomplished in your presidency, and how would you rate your experience?

Denise: When I began my first term, I wasn’t sure if I would serve the three allotted terms or not, but the time flew by because we were a system in transition and each year presented new challenges and opportunities. One of my goals was to establish a truly collaborative relationship among all of our trustees where each felt valued for his or her contribution. I believed we needed to reorganize our committee system to increase efficiency and effectiveness and with the cooperation of you as ED and my fellow trustees, we accomplished this. Keeping up to date with training and making the Annual Meeting more productive was another goal which has been accomplished through the work of the whole STLS team. Enhancing our presence at the state level is a work in progress but really moving in a positive direction. Reaching out to elected officials in the district is essential and we are continuing to make advocacy more important. And finally, trying to ensure that all of the dedicated people who keep STLS vibrant and responsive to member outlets on a daily basis know that their work is greatly appreciated. I can honestly say that the experience of serving as president of the STLS Board has been something I will always remember as rewarding, but also lots of fun!

Brian: What was the most memorable event you had during your three year term?

Denise: This one is hard to answer because I have enjoyed so many aspects of this position. I would have to say that the event which was the most memorable was the Training Workshop we held in Hammondsport because the turnout was beyond expectations and the folks from the State Library Trustees Association were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and energy we have in the southern tier for our libraries.

Brian: Now that you have a solid understanding on how library systems work, how do you feel they benefit member libraries?

Denise: Because of the explosion in technology, there is no way individual libraries could provide the level of service they do without systems. As the conduit of state funds, including construction grant dollars, systems can ensure that the playing field is level and even the smallest members get their fair share. The intangible benefits can be seen when we all get together for trainings, or strategic planning, or cost share meetings to listen and respond to one another’s needs and suggestions. I often refer to the quote, ” none of us is as strong as all of us” to highlight the effect that cooperation has in helping each member grow and succeed.

Brian: What is the single most good libraries can provide in the coming years?

Denise: Libraries are the centers of community life, especially in the rural area that STLS serves. Keeping up to date with technology and responding to the needs of each unique community is why our STLS libraries have stayed relevant over time. I am always amazed by the programming that is offered and the dedication of the people who work in the libraries in our five counties. The single most good libraries can provide is continuing to be the link to knowledge and information for every generation.

Brian: Lastly, what was it like working with me on the day to day?

Denise: From the outset, I wanted you to excel in this position and believed you would. I felt I had life experiences that would be helpful to you as we worked through many aspects of transition together. You listened to my advice— and sometimes took it! I tried to respect that your knowledge of libraries was certainly greater than mine and that I needed to support you whenever necessary. I think we developed a comfortable communication style and we worked well together because we shared mutual goals. I reserve the right to send you “words of wisdom” from time to time as I cannot seem to go away quietly!

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