The library is more than a welcoming and gathering place for all ages: it serves a dynamic and vital role in creating the joy of learning new things and a social setting to build community. Beyond being a repository of books and countless resources, they are a foundation for lifelong learning from birth through old age. Libraries play a critically important role in a healthy and vibrant community. Preserving our environment, treasuring our open lands, and taking a peaceful and restorative walk through the Middlefork Savanna.It has been and continues to be an amazing experience, and one where I try to keep centered on the idea of continually improving access for all.

The mission of public libraries as educational institutions for the community is one I believe in to my core, so I sought to be on the Board. Indeed, it also supported my husband and me in giving us access to information and to entertainment at no cost. Lake Forest Library supported the growth and development of my son and daughter from the time we moved here and they were ages 2 and 5, right through to their leaving home. Why I serve on the BoardĪs my own children approached adulthood, I considered ways that I could give back to the community that gave us so much as a family as our children grew up.

How remarkable to be able to access programs, materials, space, and information just by walking through the door-or by utilizing the online platforms supported by the library! Libraries are one of the great educational institutions we have, supporting life-long learning for anyone who cares to take advantage of them. An important thing to me about libraries is their accessibility to anyone in the community.

Susan orleans the library book