Name: Amy Prochot
Position for which you are a candidate: Gail Borden Library Trustee
Why are you seeking this position?
I’m looking to take the next step in my library journey from expert library user to experienced library employee and now finally, elected Library Trustee. I’m passionate about the incredible services that libraries provide to every segment of the community and I want to help uphold the top-notch reputation that GPBL has attained. Gail Borden continues to be a leader in the library world with their creative programming and innovative services. I’m proud to be a resident and would be honored to serve as a community leader in the Library Trustee role.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I believe that the Library Board of Trustees should be filled with advocates with diverse career and cultural backgrounds; but it’s definitely a bonus to have some library experience too. I spent nine years of my career working in public libraries including six years as an Operations Manager for the Lincolnwood Public Library. This gives me first-hand knowledge of how libraries run behind the scenes. My particular responsibilities were overseeing facility management (including bringing to life a multimillion dollar building renovation), IT coordination, and staff training. As a member of the Management Team, I interacted with the Board regularly and I am very familiar with creating budgets, providing excellent customer service, coordinating programming, understanding staffing needs, drafting policies, strategic planning, and implementing disaster plans. My career took a turn after my time at the Library and now I am an Assistant Property Manager at a Class A commercial property overseeing more than 500,000 square feet of office space across five buildings and 50 acres. From this role, I would bring to the Board experience in facility operations, capital improvement planning, emergency response procedures, environmental health and safety knowledge, and risk management practices. On top of all my qualifications from my work experience, I would draw upon my lifetime of library usage and be an ardent champion for the Library’s growth and engagement in the community.
What will be your highest priorities if elected?
There are many important issues that a Trustee will need to balance. If elected, my priorities will be three-fold: to hold the staff accountable for fiscal responsibility, ensure access to services is equitable, and advocate for the library based on the voices of the community.
It’s especially critical during these uncertain times that funds are going towards enhancing resources and initiatives that benefit the particular needs of the community. I will keep a close eye on the library’s budget. But luckily, GBPL staff are already really great at spending wisely and still providing excellent service.
There are so many different types of library users that want and need all the wonderful things the library has to offer. I will defend your right to access the materials, equipment, information, and assistance so that you can be a more productive and empowered member of the community.
I have made a personal goal this year to be more involved in my community and that means creating relationships with organizations and leaders in the area. I will listen to public comments and then actively search for ways to connect the library with partners that will respond to those needs.
If you want to keep up with my campaign, I’m sharing updates at Facebook.com/AmyPforTrustee.
Campaign Policy
Elections and voting are core concerns for the League of Women Voters. Year in and year out, Leagues are committed to providing fact-based information about issues and the positions candidates take on those issues to help voters make their own decisions and participate in the process.
The League of Women Voters never supports or opposes candidates for office or political parties. Any use of the League of Women Voters name in campaign advertising or literature has not been authorized by the League.