Library Board of Trustees Candidate Robert Thys

The Burlington Council on Aging held a candidates forum last week and invited those running for the Burlington Public Library Board of Trustees to speak to the audience and take turns answering questions. The three candidates for the two open spots are incumbents Edith F. Entwistle and Robert Thys and newcomer Jack R. Donaldson.

Each candidate was asked the same questions and given time to respond in turn. We have dedicated an article to each candidate and their answers.

Below are descriptions and quotes from Robert Thys’s answers to the questions asked at the forum. Click for Donaldson’s answers and for Entwistle’s answers.   

The Burlington Town Election is Saturday, April 9 and polls are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Introduction:

Thys introduced himself as a 9-year Burlington resident and a current trustee of 18 months with a strong background in library studies. He has a M.S. in Library and Information Science from Drexel University and works in corporate records.

“As a trustee, one of important function is to set policy and procedure for library and approve and work towards a budget to help the community have access to research,” he said. “I promise to work hard to provide you the services you need.”

What are the  current trustees doing well?

Thys said the current board works well together and is full of motivated people working to better the library and its services.

“We have set sound policies to make the library a nice place for people to enjoy and provide free access of information,” he said.  

With so much info on Internet that used to be available only at libraries, what do you see for the future of the library?

Thys said that even with most information available online, people will still need the library for access and for help in research.

“I would picture Internet as a vast ocean and the library as a cruise ship and the staff as cruise directors,” he said. “You need people to tell you what is out there and what is a reliable source of information. The staff will direct you to relevant sources. I see the library as valuable resource for navigating the Internet.”

What is the number one issue facing the library today?

Thys said in his view the budget is the big issue of the day.

“I think the critical issue facing all libraries is the budget,” he said. “Budgets are being slashed left and right. It is important that the budget we have we spend wisely and get relevant things for residents and have a well-stocked shelves of books. We also need to keep up with technology to get access to the Internet without slowdowns or 404 errors.”

What sets you apart from other candidates?

“I feel I’m a hardworking person and my education and employment background give me a unique perspective to bring to the library,” Thys said. “My education has shown me the importance of free and open information for the public and I will work to ensure the library will provide technology and access to the Internet for residents.”