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Library Trustee, Village of Berkeley {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

Library Trustees oversee the operations, policies, and budget of the local library system. They ensure the library meets the needs of the community by supporting literacy programs, managing resources, and maintaining facilities. Trustees work to uphold public access to information, approve expenditures, and advocate for library funding. This is a nonpartisan position focused on fostering educational and cultural opportunities for residents.

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    David Ditchfield
    (NON)

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    Shawn Dooley
    (NON)

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    Christina Hawn
    (NON)

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    Denise Mason-Smith
    (NON)

Biographical Information

Tell us about yourself and what motivated you to run for Library Trustee?

What do you see as the primary role of the public library in our community?

What are the biggest challenges facing public libraries today, and how do you plan to address them?

What resources would you like to see at the library that you feel are currently missing?

What is your perspective on supporting library staff in terms of wages, training, and professional development?

What is your stance on book challenges and requests for removal of materials from the library’s collection?

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I’m honored to be running for the position of Berkeley Public Library (BPL) Trustee. As a longtime resident of Berkeley, I’ve always believed that libraries are the heart of our community—places of learning, connection, and inspiration for people of all ages.

I decided to run for BPL Trustee because I believe in the power of libraries to change lives. With shifting technology and evolving community needs, it’s crucial that we have leadership that is forward-thinking and dedicated to making the library an inclusive, well-funded, and accessible space. I want to help make decisions that reflect the needs of our community and ensure that our library continues to thrive for generations to come.
The primary role of the BPL in our community is to serve as an inclusive and accessible hub for education, information, and connection. Libraries are more than just places to check out books—they are vital community resources that support lifelong learning, digital access, and cultural enrichment for people.
Public libraries face several challenges today, including funding and budget restraints, quickly evolving community needs, and space and infrastructure limitations. I believe with strong leadership and community support we can address them proactively.
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I strongly support the principles of intellectual freedom and the right of individuals to access a diverse range of ideas and perspectives. Public libraries exist to serve the entire community, and that means offering materials that reflect different viewpoints, cultures, and lived experiences.
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