MARY FIORE:  I am writing today to formally submit my candidacy for a term on the Valley Cottage Library Board of Trustees. I have had such a positive experience during these last several years of filling out a previous member’s term that I would like to apply for a new term as a Trustee and continue the path in this fulfilling public service role.

I have long been a fan of libraries, but this very one has been my hometown library my entire life. It was the first place I was allowed to walk to without my parents at the age of six, and I would spend hours picking out my books and enjoying the stacks. I had my “row” memorized and knew how many books I needed to check out over time to get to the end of the row. There weren’t enough Nancy Drew, Laura Ingalls, or Hardy Boys to last a summer!

I have been employed by the nonprofit sector my entire career. I am very familiar with the role of a nonprofit staff member -- raising funds, putting together programs, managing operations, and reporting to a board. I also have an MS in Nonprofit Management, so between my long-time experience as a nonprofit staff member, plus my degree, I have gained extensive knowledge of the sector. However, it wasn’t until my experience as a Valley Cottage Library Trustee that I really got to appreciate the operations of an important nonprofit organization from a new perspective. The unique role of a board member, in the duty and care of supporting the executive officer and the staff, helped strengthen my commitment to this organization, its staff, its mission, and our community. The added value of serving as a member of the Building Committee has further spotlighted how hard the dedicated staff works every day to ensure the community and library patrons have the best technology, materials, resources, and environment. I am proud of my role on the Board and the Building Committee, and how one can play a vital role in ensuring that all these needs (and many of our “wants”!) are met.

From this front row seat these past several years, I have seen how dedicated the entire library staff is. It has been a privilege to support the staff, their vision in how the building has grown and improved, how the programs have been created to meet the needs of a unique community, and in service to a very special Valley Cottage and Nyack Schools population.

Serving on the Board of Trustees has been an incredibly meaningful experience for me. Being a part of this vital community organization that enriches the community through its programs, resources, materials, and stunning physical space has been an honor. Thank you for accepting my application for candidacy for another term.

 

 

MELISSA L. ROY:  It is with great pleasure that I submit my letter of interest and resume for re-election as a member of the Valley Cottage Library Board of Trustees. I am a registered voter residing in Valley Cottage.

It has been an honor to serve alongside fellow trustees and staff in support of the Library, which plays such a vital role in our community, since January 2021 and as its secretary for the last three years.

During my current term, I have sought to fulfill my responsibilities with care, collaboration, and a strong sense of stewardship. I am proud of the board’s work to identify a renewed mission and strategic goals, support staff and services, and maintain fiscal responsibility, and I value the thoughtful dialogue and shared commitment that guide our decisions.

I remain deeply committed to the Library’s mission to provide a welcoming, inclusive and sustainable environment in which materials and services support and enhance the diverse needs and interests of the community. If re-elected, I would continue to bring my governance, community outreach, and strategic planning experience, as well as my ability to explain complex matters and a familiarity with non-profits and related legal matters to the board’s work and to support the Library as it responds to evolving community needs and opportunities.

Thank you for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to serve. As a long-time user and supporter of the Library, I would be grateful to continue contributing to its long-term success and vitality.