It’s time for the annual LIBRAS elections. Per LIBRAS Bylaws, we have a slate of candidates for three offices: Vice President/President-Elect, Secretary, and Treasurer. All librarians and staff at LIBRAS member libraries are eligible to vote.
You will receive a ballot via email. Voting will begin Friday May 27, 2022 and run through Monday June 13, 2022. Results will be announced via the LIBRAS listserv as well as the LIBRAS website.
Meet the Candidates
Candidates for Vice President/President-Elect:
Joshua M. Avery
Title & Institution: Group Leader for Access, Instruction, and Research at Wheaton College, Buswell Library
Degree(s): BA (History), MA (History), MS (Information Science)
Candidate Statement: My interest in this position is rooted in my commitment to serving the staff of LIBRAS libraries. As libraries and institutions face financial challenges, organizations like LIBRAS that allow information professionals to collaborate and grow together are more important than ever. I am excited for the opportunity to serve alongside the other members of the executive committee to offer programing and support to the LIBRAS members.
Brigitte Bell
Title & Institution: Director of Library Services, University of St Francis
Degree(s): MLIS, Dominican University; BA English, Dominican University
Candidate Statement: I am constantly amazed by librarians’ ability to think collectively and work collaboratively. The exchange of knowledge, networking partnerships, and genuine friendships I have gained over the years through my involvement with LIBRAS have been invaluable. Serving as LIBRAS Treasurer (2021-22) has really made me appreciate the thought, care, and sincere efforts going on behind the scenes with LIBRAS’s Leadership Team. I would love to step up and take on an even more active role facilitating the important work of our (hopefully) in-person events and our SIG groups. 2022-23 is going to be our year, I can feel it. Let’s get to work!
Nathan Thebarge
Title & Institution: Acting Library Director, Trinity International University
Degree(s): BA, Moody Bible Institute; MDiv, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; MLIS, University of Illinois (in progress)
Candidate Statement: My first full-time job in libraries was in interlibrary loan, so, from the beginning, I’ve learned the importance of libraries working together. LIBRAS is a crucial way that my library connects with others, and I would consider it a privilege to serve as VP/President- Elect. If elected to this position, I would support the mission of LIBRAS by facilitating discussions about relevant library topics. For example, I am excited to help the Special Interest Group on Open Electronic Resources develop and grow. Coming out of the pandemic, there are a number of issues, such as controlled digital lending, worth considering with colleagues. I would seek to plan events where these types of discussions could occur. Finally, I want to create spaces where we can connect and learn from others who face similar challenges. Working in libraries at private higher ed institutions comes with unique challenges and opportunities, and LIBRAS is a wonderful space for all library staff members to commiserate with and encourage one another. I appreciate your consideration.
Candidate for Secretary: Carolyn Ciesla
Carolyn Ciesla
Title & Institution: Director, A.C. Buehler Library, Elmhurst University
Degree(s): MLIS
Candidate for Treasurer: Thom Jencks
Thom Jencks
Title & Institution: Performing Arts Librarian, Roosevelt University
Degree(s): BA, Augustana College; MMus, Royal Holloway, University of London; MSLIS, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Candidate Statement: I am honored to have been nominated and potentially serve on LIBRAS’ executive board for the coming year. I currently serve in committees and leadership roles throughout the Music Library Association and the Special Libraries Association. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many of us in LIBRAS continue to face new and existing difficulties, making the work of LIBRAS and the opportunities it provides even more important. I look forward to working with you and LIBRAS’ Leadership team to continue and expand this already successful work.