Lisa Hewel
Candidate for Councilor-at-Large (2021-25)
Head of Circulation and Technology, Josephine-Louise Public Library/Lisa_Hewel.jpg)
Now – more than ever – libraries are essential to everyone everywhere. During this time of COVID-19 isolation, libraries remain “open” to our communities by providing ebooks and databases; virtual reference, resources, and programming (storytimes, book discussions, community forums), as well as online services such as Overdrive, Hoopla, and Freegal. Although libraries have limited staffing, workers continue to answer phones to provide answers and resources to anyone seeking help. The value of services we provide every day is immeasurable. We have proven to taxpayers and politicians libraries are much more than books. For all these reasons, I became a librarian, and for these same reasons, I am running for a seat on the NYLA Council.
Since becoming an NYLA member in 2004, I’ve had the privilege of serving as an officer on various section boards and committees. I’ve had the opportunity to work with innovative librarians from across the state – Sue Considine, Geoff Kirkpatrick, Matthew Bollerman, Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, Claudia Depkin, Cassie Guthrie, Erica Freudenberger, and others. It is my hope to follow in their footsteps and become a leader and advocate who will continue to bring about change and cooperation.