Meet the Candidate: Gail Ryan for SPL Board of Trustees

Democrat Gail K. Ryan is seeking a seat on the Simsbury Public Library Board of Trustees.

Education

MS in Library Science, Simmons and BA, Cornell University

Work experience

Public Librarian, Avon, CT and Oakland, CA and High School Librarian, Loomis Chaffee School

Why are you seeking office?

I am a member of the present Board and would like to continue volunteering on the Board as we face new challenges. Libraries are vital to our communities in these times. They are more than just books but are centers for sharing ideas and connecting people with information 24/7. We need to continue to be fiscally responsible and I would like to be a part of the process.

What experience do you bring to the table?

I bring my years of experience as a librarian and longtime Board member and former Chair to the table. I have worked hard to secure funding for the library to enable its renovation and expansion as well as improve its efficiency by securing a HUD grant to fund self-checkout and simplified material returns.

What do you feel is the town's most pressing issue?

The town’s most pressing issue is how to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the town. We need to enable seniors to remain in town while attracting young families to town. As a member of the Library Board of Trustees I have worked to this end and would like to continue.

What do you love most about town?

I love the quality of life in Simsbury, the excellence of its schools and its library and recreational facilities. The commitment of its elected officials and dedicated volunteers is extraordinary.

What do you like to do for fun?

I am passionate about my English Setters and work with them in the show ring, agility and the field. I love to work with them in the activities they enjoy. I judge AKC Pointing Breed Hunt Tests because watching sporting dogs in the field doing what they have been bred to do always gives me a thrill.

How can residents keep up with you? 

My email address is gailryan@aol.com, I am on Facebook, and my Twitter address is @trefoiles.