2013 Election Profile: Kandi Ream

Address: 500 block of Lakeview, Oswego

Family: Husband –Bob and three grown children Chris, Pat and Katie.  We have two grandchildren.

Education: Northern Illinois University- B.S. in Education; National Louis University –Master’s in Education

Occupation: I am currently in my 20th year of teaching for Aurora East School District #131 at Mabel O’Donnell Elementary School, where I have taught Reading, 3rd Grade and have spent the last 12 years teaching Kindergarten.

Why are you seeking office?

The library is an integral part of our community. Over the past ten years the library’s purpose has shifted from not only checking out books, but providing technology opportunities in many forms to our patrons.   It is an exciting time with the introduction of eReaders, Nooks and other devices that bring books to people. Although, my favorite part of the library is seeing the children leave with books they are excited to read at home.

What set you apart from other candidates?

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

Listening to the needs and concerns from patrons and staff as to how we can best use the resources we have available to us.  I am proud of the integrity of this Board in making fiscally responsible decisions while providing excellent service and will continue to do so.

What do you consider to be the main issues facing the Oswego Public Library today?

As our readership as continued to increase and our circulation numbers reach over 1 million this year, it is important that the library book collections continue to grow to keep pace with our patron’s needs.

Also, that our technology components are up to date and the staff is well trained to provide support for patrons. This is a continuous challenge as the technology market is developing and changing daily.

What programs or events do you think the Oswego Library should be taking part in? How will these help the library gain exposure as well as provide learning opportunities for all ages of the public?

Looking at the multitude of events that our enthusiastic staff design and implement it is clear that they are dedicated to providing a variety of opportunities for our patrons. These programs are available for patrons of all ages and have excellent attendance.  I don’t foresee that changing in the future.

How do you think the library can remain current with today's youth and the technology age?

One only has to visit the library to see the number of youth in the Young Adult area.  It is an area that is always growing and changing based on the interests of our teens.

I support the additional technology training that the staff needs to remain current with the new devices appearing on the market.  Also, we have purchased many new eBooks, Nooks, laptops, computers and IPads to add to our growing patron response for those devices.