Election 2011: Library Board Candidate Joe Cirelli

Three candidates are campaigning for two seats on the. Incumbent answers three issue-based questions about library programs and its budget.

What are the biggest issues facing the library district right now?

The biggest issue is the change in leadership and trying to maintain an even keel after the retirement of Phyllis Jacobek. Another issue, which I think we’re addressing quite well, is the increased use of the library. Specifically, the technology is used more, like the computer stations and workforce development stations. We need to remain abreast in the form of technology, which is going to be key for us.

What programs could be cut from the budget?

I don’t believe there is a need to cut programs. We’re a conservative library running a tight ship. We’ve been expanding programs rather than cutting, so I would not support reducing programs unless we ran into financial problems.

What programs must absolutely not be cut from the budget?

In case we did have a catastrophic issue and had to cut programs for financial reasons, the programs dealing with kids and literacy should never be cut, such as the children and adult reading groups. If we had to cut programs, we could cut community involvement programs and performances, such as kid craft days or hired singers that come in and perform. But that is only if we needed to, and right now we’re in a financial position where we don’t need to cut anything.