Hood River County Library District Director Choose 3
Special districts in Oregon are formed to provide specific local government needs. They are created by a vote of the people in the local area being served. Examples include people’s utility districts, library districts, water districts, fire protection districts, and more. They are governed by a board of directors, which is responsible for management and financial accountability. Special districts are empowered to levy any necessary taxes and fees to fulfill their mandate. Board members are not paid but may receive a per diem reimbursement.Library districts provide access to educational and informational resources and programs. The board is responsible for budgeting and personnel administration.Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter in the district. ORS 451.410Term: 4 years
Biographical Information
Town Where You Live
Hood River, OR
Your Experience/Qualifications
Two term Hood River County Library Board member
Term
4 years
Term Expires
07/01/2025
What skills and experience do you bring to the board?
I have been on the board for two terms and have experience working with this board and our library director. I want to maintain consistency and accountability.
What do you see as the role of libraries today, and what kinds of services do you consider important for the library to provide?
Libraries today are community centers for the locations they are in. Libraries provide services for all beyond just books. Supporting access to all community members and visitors is extremely important to any and all services that are provided. Being open minded for "what else?" we could provide to the communities we serve has been very effective. Understanding the community and our different and various needs is a continuous process that drives change for what the library may provide.
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing libraries today, and how would you address them?
Funding is our greatest challenge as we move into the future. Being good stewards of the budget and making the most of the monies that our taxpayers provide is most important and the most challenging! We would love to find a building in Odell to provide that community with a library space, but cost, location and access are the challenges we face there. The bookmobile has provided access and has been a huge success in that community and to other locations where the community cannot physically get to our library locations.
Biographical Information
What skills and experience do you bring to the board?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the role of libraries today, and what kinds of services do you consider important for the library to provide?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing libraries today, and how would you address them?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
What skills and experience do you bring to the board?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the role of libraries today, and what kinds of services do you consider important for the library to provide?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing libraries today, and how would you address them?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Town Where You Live
Hood River
Your Experience/Qualifications
• Business Owner–Successfully operated a business in Hood River for 10 years.• Cultural Engagement –Traveled extensively across the U.S. and internationally to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.• Community Advocate – Actively engaged in local initiatives that support underserved populations.• Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a deep connection to my Mexican heritage and traditions. • Experienced in building relationships and fostering collaboration across a variety of groups
County
Hood River
Term
4 years
Term Expires
6/30/29
What skills and experience do you bring to the board?
Relevant Experience and Accomplishments:
• Business Owner – Successfully operated a business in Hood River for 10 years.
• Cultural Engagement – Traveled extensively across the U.S. and internationally to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.
• Community Advocate – Actively engaged in local initiatives that support underserved populations.
• Served as an informal mentor to young entrepreneurs and business.
Personal Skills and Attributes:
• Strong ability to listen, engage with diverse populations, and develop effective solutions.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a deep connection to my Mexican heritage and traditions.
• Experienced in building relationships and fostering collaboration across different community groups.
What do you see as the role of libraries today, and what kinds of services do you consider important for the library to provide?
•Create an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe and is encouraged to learn.
•Provide accessibility to diverse learning materials.
•Classes for kids/teens/adults
•Outreach Services
•Digital Libraries
•Mobile Libraries
•Makerspace
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing libraries today, and how would you address them?
Challenges: Securing long-term funding and sustaining community support.
Opportunities: Expanding diversity, reaching new audiences, and fostering greater community engagement.
Strengthening partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations to enhance library outreach.
Biographical Information
What skills and experience do you bring to the board?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the role of libraries today, and what kinds of services do you consider important for the library to provide?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing libraries today, and how would you address them?
Candidate has not yet responded.