Thomas P. Stagg, Director at Large Candidate

Thomas P. Stagg, Alpha Park Public Library District, Bartonville

Statement of Concern 
Many concerns abound across the library landscape in Illinois as well as on a national level. We see them every day when we are confronted about funding and the attacks on many libraries on different fronts in the last few years. According to the Illinois census, over one million residents in Illinois are not served by a library. The Illinois Library Association has been at the forefront of helping with these challenges.

In looking at the new strategic plan that was adopted last year, ILA has again risen to the occasion of focusing on the needs of the libraries and its members. I was honored to be nominated to run for the Executive Board. I am not a librarian but an advocate for libraries.

My experience with libraries may not be as lengthy as others, however, my determination to see libraries succeed has been shown with my activities with ILA and RAILS. I have, and am currently,  pursuing advanced library educational opportunities to increase my awareness of what our libraries need. This education and my management skills, with over 40 years of experience in supply chain management, will bring a new insight to the Board.

In the last few years, the Illinois Library Association and others have worked together to make some great progress with the statewide database as well as working with the Secretary of State on the book ban legislation. These projects and new legislative initiatives must continue. I want to be part of the team that makes additional improvements for all the libraries in the state.

Professional Experience, Memberships and Activities
Alpha Park Public Library District
     Trustee, 2017 - Present

Illinois Library Association, Member since 2016
     ILA Trustee of the Year, 2024
     ILA Trustee Forum Board
     Public Policy Committee
     ILA Annual Conference 2024, Presenter

Reaching Across Illinois Library System
Board Member, 2018 - 2024
President, 2022 - 2023
Treasurer, 2020 - 2022
Advocacy Committee Member, 2018 - 2023
Nominating Committee Chair, 2023
Policy Committee Member, 2023 - 2024
Consortia Committee Chair, 2021 - 2024

American Library Association, Member since 2018 

Chicago State University Student Chapter Member

Association of Illinois School Library Educators (AISLE), member since 2024

Education
Currently enrolled at Chicago State University pursuing MLIS completion date 2026
Certificate Library Technical  Assistant, Illinois Central College, 2024
Certificate Materials and Logistics Management, Illinois Central College 2002
Certificate Interstate Commerce Law, Illinois Central College, 1981
BA Agricultural Marketing Illinois State University, 1978
AA Management, Illinois Central College, 1976
Certificate Transportation and Traffic Management, Illinois Central College, 1975

 


 

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