- Home
- About
- Join
- Groups
- Divisions
- Sections
- Section Chair Roster
- CAYAS (Children & Young Adult Services)
- CLAWS (College Libraries Across Washington State)
- IFS (Intellectual Freedom Section)
- LISS (Library and Information Student Section)
- SAIL (Serving Adults in Libraries)
- SRRT (Social Responsibilities Round Table)
- WALE (Washington Library Employees)
- WALT (Washington Library Trainers)
- WLFFTA (Washington Library Friends, Foundations, Trustees & Advocates)
- Committees
- Advocacy Committee
- Alki Editorial Committee
- Conference Committee
- Finance Committee
- Grants and Partnerships
- Legislative Committee
- Marketing Committee
- Member Services Committee
- Professional Development Committee
- OTTER Book Award Committee
- Sasquatch Book Award Committee
- Towner Book Award Committee
- WCCPBA Committee
- Advocacy
- Resources
- Conferences & Events
- Awards & Scholarships
- Store
2024 WA State House Candidate StatementsWA Voting Information | Register to Vote | Find Your District State Executive Candidate Statements | State Senate Candidate Statements Candidates for WA General Election Positions were asked to answer the following questions for their candidate statement:
Thank you to all of the 2024 WA Elections Candidates who participated in our Library Advocacy Survey! State House Candidate StatementsDistricts 1-10 | Districts 11-20 | Districts 21-30 | Districts 31-40 | Districts 41-49 District 1: Position 1Davina Duerr | Mark Davies District 1: Position 2Position 2: Shelley Kloba District 2: Position 1Andrew Barkis District 2: Position 2John Snaza | Matt Marshall District 3: Position 1
Natasha Hill | Tony Kiepe District 3: Position 2
Timm Ormsby District 4: Position 1Kristopher Pockell | Suzanne Schmidt District 4: Position 2Rob Chase
Responses to the WLA survey from Rob Chase were not provided. Ted Cummings How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Internet connection and meeting space have been invaluable.
District 5: Position 1Mark Hargrove Victoria Hunt How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have two children who attend my local public elementary school and have been a volunteer at their library. As a PhD ecologist, libraries have played a significant role in helping me achieve my educational goals. What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported?
I see public libraries as essential community hubs that enhance access to information, education, and resources. Libraries also play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy and community engagement. I will always advocate for increased funding, collaborate with local governments, and support grant opportunities to ensure the maintenance and development of libraries in our communities. We need to prioritize libraries by highlighting their positive impact. What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? By providing free access to accurate information and promoting media literacy, I believe that libraries are a hub of information for citizens and are essential to fostering a healthy democracy. Libraries empower the community to engage actively in the democratic process by offering education programs. They also enrich public discourse and strengthen democracy by ensuring that all voices have the information needed to create meaningful participation. How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? As a State Representative, I will promote digital equity by advocating for increased funding for libraries, which have a long history of supporting digital literacy and access. I also plan on prioritizing initiatives that work towards expanding programs that provide training and resources for underserved communities. I believe that by leveraging the expertise of libraries in digital work, we can close the divide and ensure all residents have the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly technological world. How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I will advocate for increased funding and resources to strengthen school library programs and ensure they are staffed by quality Teacher-Librarians, and promote policies that prioritize hiring and training for them. I also want to continue to raise awareness about the importance of strong library programs in supporting student success and educational equity across our district. Libraries continue to see decreased funding for collections especially in rural and underserved areas. Presently, the state does not play any role in providing funds to public libraries. Would you support the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections?Yes, I would support the creation of a state fund to provide financial assistance for public libraries’ collections, especially in rural and underserved communities. I believe that ensuring all libraries have the resources they need is essential for fostering equitable access to information and supporting community development. We must invest in library collection in order to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen local communities. District 5: Position 2Lisa Callan | Patrick Peacock
Responses to the WLA survey from Lisa Callan and Patrick Peacock were not provided.
District 6: Position 1Mike Volz | Steven McCray II
Responses to the WLA survey from Mike Volz and Steven McCray II were not provided.
District 6: Position 2Jenny Graham | Michaela Kelso District 7: Position 1Andrew Engell
Responses to the WLA survey from Andrew Engell were not provided. Soo Ing-Moody How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have been a library user ever since I can remember. It was a critical resource for me as I was growing up and have always felt it a place of opportunity for personal growth and enlightenment. Professionally, as mayor of a small town for a underserved and economically distressed community, I have supported and ensured that our public library received the funds necessary to support and maintain its facilities.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? As former mayor of the town of Twisp for the past 13 years, I know firsthand the importance of the local library for my constituents, especially in light of the fact that not all members of our community have had the same access to adequate internet service or technology available to them, making the local library more important than ever. It is a place where kids can get homework done with the necessary resources and references to do so. It is also at times a place of safe refuge that some kids lack, allowing a space to hang out, socialize, and learn. It is a place where all people regardless of age, background, or social standing are welcome. Seniors lacking digital resources can go to learn to use the internet, accessing the tools needed to navigate our modern society. For so many reasons, I believe that public libraries need adequate public funding to ensure their continued existence. I was pleased to learn that recent funding was established to help maintain these facilities and as a legislator I would continue to support funding for public libraries since I strongly believe that they are a critical resource, especially important in rural areas where libraries serve so many other functions than just as a place to access materials and information.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? I believe in freedom of expression and the right of all citizens to seek and access information as needed to be informed. A healthy democracy depends upon its citizenry to be properly informed. The ability for individuals to access a variety of information with differing viewpoints is necessary to reflect the world we live in, while access to accurate information is essential for the development of rational critical thought. Libraries play a critical role as a place where all citizens, regardless of socio-economic standing have equal access to such materials and information.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? As legislator I would ensure that funding is provided for programs to help bridge the digital divide in Washington state. Such programs are a critical resource to ensure that all Washingtonians have equal access and opportunity and the pursuit of happiness within our modern society.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I believe that Teacher-Librarians would be a potential asset and important resource within the public school library system and as legislator would like to work with OSPI to understand the potential for students to be supported with more qualified Teacher-Librarians. District 7: Position 2Hunter Abell
Responses to the WLA survey from Hunter Abell were not provided. Paul "Rocky" Dean How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
In my personal experience, I've actively encouraged my family to make use of our local libraries. My wife and I have two boys, and we believe that reading is an essential skill, so we’ve worked to instill a love of reading in them. When they were young, we frequently visited the library and brought home books to explore together. On a professional level, while I haven't had many direct opportunities, I supported the installation of a library drop box outside the Springdale Town Hall and I support the construction of the new library building in Loon Lake, WA.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? Three of the seven counties in my legislative district consistently rank among the poorest in the state. Our schools strive to provide a quality education, but they often fall short of meeting the needs of our children. Additionally, as a rural district, access to broadband remains a distant dream for many families. One initiative that is making a difference is our local library's program to loan out hotspots. This can significantly impact the lives of underserved, rural children.
Libraries can serve as vital hubs for these small communities, especially when they collaborate with the school system. I believe that securing funding for these initiatives requires engaging lawmakers in the creative process and fostering bipartisan cooperation, which I am committed to pursuing.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? The spread of misinformation on social media is rampant and increasingly challenging to address. Meanwhile, traditional media outlets often fall short in delivering the truth, creating a need for accessible and reliable information sources. Libraries and their dedicated staff serve as essential links in this effort, providing invaluable resources for our communities. I envision a future where people can easily access libraries and engage with their staff from home, making it simpler for everyone to find the truth in a format that is easy to understand.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? To promote digital equity and secure funding for libraries, I plan to focus on a few key areas. First, I will push for increased public investment in library resources, emphasizing their experience in bridging the digital divide. This includes improving access to technology and offering training programs for both staff and patrons.
I’ll also encourage partnerships between libraries, local governments, and community organizations to reach underserved populations more effectively. By sharing success stories and data on the positive impact of libraries, we can build a strong case for funding.
Finally, I will work with lawmakers from both parties to highlight libraries as essential community hubs for digital access. My goal is to ensure that everyone has equal access to digital resources and support in our increasingly digital world.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? To increase student access to strong school library programs, I will advocate for policies that prioritize funding for qualified Teacher-Librarians in schools. I plan to collaborate with education stakeholders to raise awareness about the vital role of Teacher-Librarians in promoting literacy and learning. Additionally, I will support initiatives that provide professional development for these educators, ensuring they have the resources and training needed to enhance student engagement. By highlighting the benefits of robust school library programs, I aim to secure the necessary support and funding for our students’ educational success. Thank you for the opportunity to learning something new and answer these questions. District 8: Position 1Stephanie Barnard District 8: Position 2April Connors | John Christenson District 9: Position 1Mary Dye Patrick Miller How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
My mother was a librarian working in community college libraries, academic libraries, and public libraries. Libraries were always a part of my life growing up. When I was old enough to apply for a job in the local branch library I became a library page. As I continued my education in computer science, I continued to work in learning resource centers and technology support departments while working on my undergraduate degree. Besides school related reading and assignments, I managed to make sure I had time for recreational reading which still means a great deal to me. I always have a book on my phone. Now that we have a daughter, she began visiting the library for story times as well as to select books of her own to check out. As she is beginning to learn to read on her own, I am enjoying watching her make her own selections and the variety she selects is wonderful to see. Libraries are integral to our society from offering access to computers, a wide/deep selection of materials to read on all subject and entertainment levels and serve as a community center. Libraries provide access to resources to all members of their community.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? It is almost impossible to measure the intangible value of libraries to the communities they serve. From providing a safe place to stay to a source of invaluable information with staff to support access to specific information needs, the spectrum of library services and resources are tailored to meet the needs of people in the communities they serve. Libraries are changing to meet the needs of their communities, be that through more access to technology or more adult programming to assist seniors with assistance to accessing health care or preparing income taxes. To provide new services to their community as well as maintaining an active selection of books for all ages in all formats is a challenge.
Making sure that well-trained staff is available to select and assist people with the use of the resources that are available is important. How to balance funding between materials, services, and staff has always been important and will continue to be so. Making sure that the community is aware of the value of the resources which are accessible in their library is important. Having an aware community that values their library’s resources is important so that community support is in place when budget issues arise. Funding needs to come from both the local community as well as supplemental State assistance, when necessary, especially in our smaller rural communities that are frequently lacking in a variety of resources including access to high-speed internet service. What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? There is a direct correlation between well-funded libraries and informed citizens. Ensuring a balanced collection that presents a wide range of opinions, so people have a choice instead of having only one viewpoint presented is critical to a healthy democracy. A library is one place in each community where someone should be able to go to find out about different points of view presented in an open and fair manner. Censorship should have no place in our community libraries.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? Libraries should take a leadership role in lobbying for and helping to provide digital equality not only in their own facilities, but also within their communities. Significantly more funding is required to help areas, especially many of our rural communities, to erase this divide. I will actively lobby for increased funding to help reach this goal.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? Over the years as school districts see their budgets threatened, I have observed librarian positions cut. This is not acceptable. Working with other teachers to deepen the curriculum they are offering by providing supplemental supportive materials for both the teachers and students is important. Working with both teachers and students to recognize appropriate resources and how best to apply them is part of being a qualified librarian. This is a skill that will help our students to know how to recognize and appropriately use resources. Every school should have a qualified teacher-librarian. This obviously requires appropriate funding. District 9: Position 2Joe Schmick Pam Kohlmeier How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have spent many long hours in libraries during medical and law school, in addition to public libraries with my four children.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? Our public libraries are a prime source of (factual) information to help combat misinformation. Also, it is vital that we avoid censorship in our public libraries so that citizens can chose for themselves what they wish to read.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? There is a strong correlation between healthy democracies and well-informed citizens. Libraries play a vital role in citizens being well-informed. I am particularly intrigued by audiobooks being provided by public libraries which help to keep constituents well-informed without needing to be inside the libraries during business hours which helps to knock down barriers to receiving accurate information.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? I am a big proponent of equity in education, healthcare, etc. In fact, I designed and taught a course on inequities and advocacy when I was a Lecturer - MPH at a college in Eastern Washington. I will be open to listening to the WLA to ensure that I am well-informed on what the librarians need to ensure delivery of library services is done equitably.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I will be open to listening to the WLA to ensure that library services are provided with the expertise they deserve. District 10: Position 1Carrie R. Kennedy | Clyde Shavers District 10: Position 2Dave Paul | Gary Wray
Responses to the WLA survey from Dave Paul and Gary Wray were not provided. District 11: Position 1David Hackney District 11: Position 2Justin Greywolf | Steve Bergquist
Responses to the WLA survey from Justin Greywolf and Steve Bergquist were not provided. District 12: Position 1Heather Koellen Brian Burnett How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
My wife and I homeschooled our 6 kids, who are all adult children now. We utilized the library for years both in person and mail delivery for recreational and educational books and videos. We've always encouraged our kids and now grandkids to be readers and in order to increase their knowledge base.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? It certainly helps those in a lower economic class or lower income to be able to have valuable resources for both learning and recreational purposes, specifically to online services.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? Allows all persons to study and self educate on any and all issues they deem important.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? We need to continue to provide solutions via our Public Utility partners, local communities and state legislation in order to close the gap and provide broadband internet to all residential areas within our region and state.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I would have to do more research on this topic in order to answer properly. District 12: Position 2Daniel Scott | Mike Steele
Responses to the WLA survey from Daniel Scott and Mike Steele were not provided. District 13: Position 1Tom Dent District 13: Position 2Alex Ybarra
How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Yes
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? I never it gave it much thought but right now there is a tax that pays for libraries. So I would keep it the same.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? BIG QUESTION. Libraries are non partisan information supplies
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? I'm already on it. I've been working with the County Association that is trying to bring internet to all. and Working with a the local digital equity groups.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I'm all about libraries so what it takes... Libraries continue to see decreased funding for collections especially in rural and underserved areas. Presently, the state does not play any role in providing funds to public libraries. Would you support the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections? District 14: Position 1Chelsea Dimas | Gloria Mendoza District 14: Position 2Ana Ruiz Kennedy | Deb Manjarrez District 15: Position 1Chase Foster | Chris Corry District 15: Position 2Jeremie Dufault | Rich Bright District 16: Position 1Linda Gunshefski Mark Klicker How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have supported the Walla Walla City Library since I was a young child. My mother started me at a young age and we spent many hours at the library. I consistently used the library during my high school and college years. What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported?
It is imperative that our public libraries are adequately funded and supported. I will continue to help find opportunities in the legislature to find funding and support. What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? The wonderful thing is, that libraries provide information to every person no matter their ideology and a library doesn't take sides with any one person's beliefs or opinions. Libraries provide the information that allows all or any individual the information they need to decide for themselves what they want to believe or where they stand in their opinions. How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? The digital world is what society depends on and too many people are not financially able to afford a computer or printer and other digital devices. Funding through legislative grants are available as well as funding requests. Legislators and their constituents can work together to access this funding when available or when the opportunity arises. How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I have a very good relationship with both our school districts and libraries in my district and I will continue to support programs needed for students so they can utilize either their school library or the public library. I will also work with those districts and libraries to access the funding for both old and new programs. Libraries continue to see decreased funding for collections especially in rural and underserved areas. Presently, the state does not play any role in providing funds to public libraries. Would you support the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections? I believe the state can help provide funding to local public libraries but I also believe the local government still needs financial involvement. Cost sharing programs or matching funds should be considered. District 16: Position 2Craig R Woodard | Skyler Rude District 17: Position 1Kevin Waters District 17: Position 2David Stuebe | Terri Niles District 18: Position 1Deken Letinich | Stephanie McClintock District 18: Position 2John Ley John Zingale How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Yes. I am a middle school Social Studies teacher and we promote and use out school and public libraries all the time. We also take our kids to the library all the time. What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported?
Libraries should play a vital role in helping everyone in our communities. They can/should help people not only get access to book, magazines, and other reading materials, but they should also help people learn new skills. They can/should help people learn how to start a business. They can be open late and host community events like Magic the Gathering parties, movie nights, and other things like that. We need to make sure that proper funding is given to libraries so they can not just stay open, but thrive. What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? Libraries are a vital piece to keeping our society well informed, literate, and healthy. As a teacher I've helped develop a media literacy project and curriculum for our ESD and the state. I teach those skills in the classroom and believe that we also need to be teaching those skills through libraries as well. It is one thing to have students learn those skills in school, but there are MANY adults that are lacking these skills. This is where libraries come in. They can be the a hub of learning for our communities across the state. How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? As I stated above, I have personally worked with this issue in my classroom. I will work with OPSI and school districts to make sure the money is not only budgeted, but then allocated equitably so that all areas of our state get what they need and deserve. How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? Once again as a classroom teacher, we MUST make sure that there is funding for a full-time librarian at every school. We just had our staffing cut. We not only have a half-time librarian at each secondary site, and were able to keep more FTE at our elementary schools. We were a lucky district. Several of our neighboring districts have cut their their librarians altogether which is one of the worst outcomes we could have. Literacy is school is a primary function and we must have libraries in every building to help educators and our young scholars. Libraries continue to see decreased funding for collections especially in rural and underserved areas. Presently, the state does not play any role in providing funds to public libraries. Would you support the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections? Yes, I would absolutely be open to supporting the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections.
District 19: Position 1Jim Walsh Mike Coverdale How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Yes Our local library in Westport has been a fantastic resource as our daughter grew and continues to be an active hub in our community. My 86 year old mom averages 20 books a month! What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? Public libraries in rural communities are crucial and become a meeting point for various groups and for access to internet where not otherwise available. I feel strongly that our libraries should be supported and staffed to the benefit of the people in our district.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? With the decline in local newspapers, all sources of current information have become more important and the underserved populations which includes rural Washington, have the least access to information. The public library serves a vital role.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? See above answers :-) Rural Washington deserves to have the tools needed to keep up in life.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? Strong support of both education and libraries will be a top priority for me once in office. District 19: Position 2Joel McEntire | Terry Carlson District 20: Position 1Peter Abbarno | Melvin Kaleolani Apana District 20: Position 2Ed Orcutt District 21: Position 1Strom Peterson | Riaz Khan District 21: Position 2Kristina Mitchell District 22: Position 1Beth Doglio | Steve Owens District 22: Position 2Lisa Parshley How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Yes! Libraries have been essential resources in my personal and professional life. I’ve used libraries as a gateway to lifelong learning, research, and community engagement. Growing up and throughout my career, I have relied on libraries to access both physical and digital resources, using them to stay informed on scientific developments and research as a veterinarian and as a public servant, or even just to grab a fun read when I need to relax. Professionally, as a member of the Olympia City Council, I’ve supported our local libraries by advocating for funding and ensuring they have the resources to serve our diverse community. Libraries are invaluable in fostering education and providing opportunities for those in need, whether it's through access to technology, job search resources, or youth literacy programs. I’ve worked on community initiatives, recognizing libraries' crucial role in addressing gaps in access to information and services, particularly for low-income and underserved populations. As a legislator, I will continue to strongly advocate for libraries and ensure they receive the necessary support to thrive and evolve with the community's needs.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? Public libraries play an essential role in improving the lives of my constituents by providing access to information, technology, and essential services that many rely on, especially underserved populations. For students, libraries offer educational resources, study spaces, and digital tools. For job seekers, they provide internet access, resume-building workshops, and job-search assistance. Libraries also serve as community hubs, offering programs for children, seniors, and immigrants that foster literacy, digital skills, and civic engagement. If elected, I will work to ensure libraries are adequately funded by advocating for state budget allocations that prioritize their operational needs and expansion. I’ll support legislation that protects funding for libraries and promotes partnerships between libraries and local organizations to further extend their reach. Additionally, I will advocate for programs that modernize libraries, ensuring they have the necessary technology and staff to meet the evolving demands of the digital age, all while safeguarding their role as open and inclusive spaces for free expression and diverse perspectives.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? Libraries are at the heart of fostering informed citizens, which in turn supports healthy democracies and the dissemination of accurate information. In Washington state, libraries serve as hubs for free access to knowledge, offering everything from books and newspapers to internet access, digital literacy programs, and community workshops. By providing these resources, libraries empower individuals to stay informed, critically engage with issues, and participate meaningfully in civic life. In a healthy democracy, it is essential that citizens have access to reliable and diverse sources of information. Libraries help combat misinformation by offering trustworthy, fact-checked materials and resources, allowing citizens to make informed decisions, particularly on important issues like elections, policy changes, and public health. Public libraries are also vital for promoting media literacy, helping residents- especially younger generations - understand how to critically assess the information they consume, whether online or in print. How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? To promote digital equity and ensure libraries are equipped to close the digital divide, I will focus on increasing state support for their critical role in providing access to technology. First, I will advocate for funding to improve broadband infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, so libraries can offer high-speed internet and up-to-date digital tools to all residents. For many, libraries are the only place to access the internet, so they must have the resources to meet this need. I will also work to secure funding that enables libraries to expand access to devices like laptops and tablets, ensuring underserved communities can benefit from the technology needed for education, job searches, and civic participation. Finally, I will champion efforts to support and grow the digital literacy programs libraries have been offering for decades. These programs, which help people of all ages build the skills they need in an increasingly digital world, are crucial to closing the digital divide.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? To increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians, I will advocate for policies prioritizing funding for school libraries as essential educational spaces. This starts with ensuring that each school has a fully staffed library, with a credentialed Teacher-Librarian who can lead not only literacy and research efforts but also digital literacy and technology integration, which are vital for 21st-century learning. I will work to secure state-level funding specifically for school library programs, ensuring that they are not subject to cuts when budgets are tight. This funding should also go towards professional development opportunities for Teacher-Librarians, so they stay current with educational trends, digital tools, and technology that enhance student learning. Syd Locke How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have been a regular and enthusiastic library user my whole life.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? Libraries are essential for our civic, artistic, creative and economic health. Libraries are good for our souls. Libraries need much more funding via a more progressive tax system.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? Very connected! Libraries have a long history of being a pillar of healthy democracies.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? Digital equity is very important in our day and age. I will work for libraries to be amply funded, including supporting them to close the digital divide. We need higher taxes on the wealthy to pay for it.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? First, we must resist the attempts to restrict or censor libraries. They must be free to add to their collections and resources without interference. Increased funding for more teacher/librarians is needed. We need our libraries to be world-class. That will take funding. District 23: Position 1Kurt Robertson | Tarra Simmons District 23: Position 2Greg Nance | Jamie Miles District 24: Position 1Adam Bernbaum | Matthew (Matt) Roberson District 24: Position 2Steve Tharinger | Terry Roberts District 25: Position 1Cameron Severns | Michael Keaton District 25: Position 2Cyndy Jacobsen | Shellie Willis District 26: Position 1Adison Richards | Jesse L. Young District 26: Position 2Michelle Caldier Tiffiny Mitchell How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Yes!
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? I believe public libraries are essential community gathering places that also provide important services to the public: things like internet, printing, the ability to access information, research, and to share ideas. As a legislator, I will advocate to ensure that our libraries statewide, including school libraries, have adequate funding, and work to support them in their ability to carry the books and resources they feel are necessary and important to the communities they serve.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? We absolutely cannot have a healthy and functioning democracy without the free exchange of ideas and information. Libraries provide a medium for people to get that information, share ideas, and have access to the ability to learn important research skills that can help counter disinformation (which is incredibly important to a thriving democracy). To that end too, librarians play an incredibly important role because of their education, training, and background. Again--I just feel these venues are incredibly, incredibly important.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? I have already indicated my willingness to be a fierce advocate for libraries and library funding. I hope that through that work, as well as working in my district to bring more infrastructure in to support an expansion of broadband in places where services are lacking (such as the Key Peninsula) that we can help to increase that access. Ensuring that our libraries also have the funds they need to provide additional access, including to materials that can be accessed through the library but from a user's home is important. And ensuring that our libraries have the necessary funding to be able to offer programs around digital skills, digital literacy, etc., is important for building job skills and economic development. I believe our libraries play a central role, and I will continue to work and support those efforts.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I need to look at existing legislation in the state of Washington--but I am frankly quite alarmed at the rhetoric happening all over the country, including in our state--seeking to censor the content available in our libraries and school libraries. I will support legislation and funding to ensure we have qualified teacher-librarians in our public schools, and that necessary programs exist to ensure digital literacy for students and programs to teach critical thinking and research skills. District 27: Position 1Ken Paulson | Laurie Jinkins District 27: Position 2Devin Rydel Kelly | Jake Fey District 28: Position 1Gabe Sachwitz How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
I have used and supported public libraries my whole life. I grew up in libraries as a child, participating in summer reading programs, reading book competitions, checking out books as a child and continue to do so as an adult, and raising my children in our libraries, participating in similar programs for them as well. Simply put, I LOVE public libraries and am a fierce advocate. I also have supported public libraries in my professional roles and often have my town halls or community conversations in library rooms across the district, led the charge to get funding and resources of naloxone this past session and beyond. I also spoke out loudly about my concern of the library in Lakewood contribution or potentially losing funding as a result of a decision that Lakewood is doing without consultation. Finally, I have spoken out against banning books or disparaging public libraries as in my view they are an essential public good. These are just some ways that I have used and supported libraries. What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported?
Public libraries are undoubtedly a vital place in any community, providing access to information, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities and bridging the digital divide based on access to resources. As far as ensuring they are adequately funded and supported, I was proud to vote in favor of ESHB 2494, which increased state funding for operating costs in schools, and plan to continue to support legislation that is aimed at the same priority. Further, I will continue to not only advocate for fully supported public libraries, but also collaborate with our neighborhoods and communities to ensure we have innovative plans and ideas on how to keep these libraries not only fully accessible, but operating to the best of their ability. What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state?
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work?
I think the promotion of digital equity is one of the most important resources a library can offer, especially as we move further and further into the digital age. So, in order to keep such an important resource, I’d have to meet with the appropriate parties, likely including WLA, in order to get an informed opinion on pinpointing the specific areas where funding would be most effective. How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians?
My goal is to create a framework where local schools can innovate and adapt their library services to best serve their students. I believe that collaboration and dialogue are key to finding effective solutions to ensure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed. I also supported expanding funding librarians in schools and having strong school library programs. Libraries continue to see decreased funding for collections especially in rural and underserved areas. Presently, the state does not play any role in providing funds to public libraries. Would you support the creation of a state fund to provide money for public libraries’ collections? District 28: Position 2Dan Bronoske | Mark Herr District 29: Position 1Melanie Morgan | Richard Miller District 29: Position 2Sharlett Mena District 30: Position 1Jamila E. Taylor | Melissa Hamilton District 30: Position 2Kristine M. Reeves | Quentin Morris District 31: Position 1Drew Stokesbary Sara Sutterfield How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
Childhood to now, I have utilized libraries for the resources available to all people regardless of financial standing. Reading, research, internet, classes, kid's programs, book sales, audiobooks, community meetings, homeschooling, field trips, advertising for community events, et cetera!
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? I envision People understanding we are healthier as a whole and living simpler lives, which in turn will see us being more mindful about the human condition and consumerism. We may have to reprimand with regulations that encourage/make folk use public resources. This is instead of perpetuating the idea that only those of lesser value use them, which is how I feel libraries are represented.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? Libraries are directly connected to all people having a good quality of life.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? Perhaps libraries can be outfitted to generate their own funding more substantially than book sale-type fundraisers? Solar power? Alternate public school for specific trades or student needs? Maybe libraries can provide municipal internet?
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? I'd like to visit more schools throughout the 31st District before I can answer this question. I want to experience and understand better what is minimizing student access with qualified staff. District 31: Position 2Brian L. Gunn | Joshua Penner District 32: Position 1Cindy Ryu | Lisa Rezac District 32: Position 2Lauren Davis | Lori Theis District 33: Position 1George Richter | Tina L. Orwall District 33: Position 2Casey Esmond | Mia Su-Ling Gregerson District 34: Position 1Emily Alvarado | Kimberly M. Cloud District 34: Position 2Joe Fitzgibbon | Jolie Lansdowne District 35: Position 1Dan Griffey District 35: Position 2James DeHart | Travis Couture District 36: Position 1Julia Grant Reed District 36: Position 2Liz Berry | Victoria Palmer District 37: Position 1Sharon Tomiko Santos District 37: Position 2Chipalo Street | Matt McCally District 38: Position 1Annie Fitzgerald | Julio Cortes District 38: Position 2Marnie Claywell | Mary Fosse District 39: Position 1Robert J. Sutherland | Sam Low District 39: Position 2Carolyn Eslick | Jackie Huey District 40: Position 1Debra Lekanoff District 40: Position 2Alex Ramel District 41: Position 1Emily Tadlock | Tana Senn District 41: Position 2Al Rosenthal | My-Linh Thai District 42: Position 1Alicia Rule Raymond Pelletti How have you used and supported libraries in your personal and professional experience?
We have been a frequent user of the library system for years.
What role do you envision public libraries playing in improving the lives of your constituents, and how will you ensure they are adequately funded and supported? The libraries have been underfunded and underutilized over the years. The resources the library system offers our neighbors is very abundant and can yet be expanded.
What connection do you see between libraries and informed citizens, healthy democracies, and the dissemination of accurate information within Washington state? When our children are failing to be able to read at grade level is not acceptable. If our children are not able to be able to read, find resources that allow them to be aware of what is going on in their communities and be able to converse with others, we will as a society flounder and lose our edge in the world.
How will you promote digital equity and ensure that libraries receive funding to close the digital divide, considering their decades-long experience in digital work? I would be a friend of the Libraries. I want those who need special access and services to be able to get them. Having learned the importance of reading and research skills, I know we need to make sure others have access to be able to have job prospects, be able to engage with their local and state representatives and be able to express their concerns and expectations.
How will you work to increase student access to strong school library programs staffed by qualified Teacher-Librarians? We have to make sure we provide the resources to our schools to be able to hire those qualified to administer the resources the library has. District 42: Position 2Joe Timmons | Kamal Bhachu District 43: Position 1Nicole Macri District 43: Position 2Andrea Suarez | Shaun Scott District 44: Position 1Brandy Donaghy District 44: Position 2April Berg | Sam Sim District 45: Position 1Roger Goodman District 45: Position 2Larry Springer | Melissa Demyan District 46: Position 1Beth Daranciang | Gerry Pollet District 46: Position 2Darya Farivar | Simone Barron District 47: Position 1Debra Jean Entenman | Kyle Lyebyedyev District 47: Position 2Chris Stearns | Ted Cooke District 48: Position 1Lynn Trinh | Vandana Slatter District 48: Position 2Amy Walen District 49: Position 1Brett Graham | Sharon Wylie District 49: Position 2Monica Jurado Stonier | Russell Barber |
 |
Washington Library Association |
Office hours: 9:00 am–5:00 pm (Pacific Time)
Back to top