Meet Oak Lawn Library Trustee Candidate Kathleen 'Kate' McDermott

OAK LAWN, IL — Kate McDermott is running for Oak Lawn library trustee in the upcoming April 6 consolidated election. McDermott, 40, is a long-time Oak Lawn resident, attending Dist. 123 schools and is a graduate of Oak Lawn Community High School. She is a developmental therapist. Seven candidates, including two incumbents, are vying for two seats on the library board. Library trustees serve six-year terms. The top two vote getters will win the election. Early voting starts March 22.

Name: Kathleen "Kate" McDermott

Age (as of Election Day): 40

Town/City of Residence: Oak Lawn

Office Sought: Oak Lawn Public Library Board of Trustees

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race): Non-partisan

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education: I grew up in Oak Lawn and went to school in District 123. I attended Covington Elementary School, McGugan Junior High, and graduated in the top 10 percent of my class from Oak Lawn Community High School. I then pursued my bachelors in elementary education at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.

Occupation: Developmental Therapist in the Early Intervention Program for the past 7 years.

Campaign website: Kathleen McDermott for Oak Lawn Library Board

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Chairperson for the Illinois Developmental Therapy Association

The single most pressing issue facing our library and this is what I intend to do about it.

The budget is always a main concern for the library. There was a recent reduction in the library budget that has an incredible effect on what the library will be able to do and plan for in the future. I would like to protect funding for the library and ensure it will be used wisely and efficiently without any further budget cuts.

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

I believe that we all have the right to freedom of speech, peaceful protests or holding demonstrations to speak up for personal beliefs and justice. It saddens me to know that many people have suffered from the violence that came from the injustice, riots, and hate and I hope we can all work together to make this world a better place with more compassion and understanding of each other. I can think of no better place for that to start than with the Oak Lawn Public Library, where all are welcome!

Do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality, and if not, what specifically should be done to do so?

I am not aware of all that the board has done to support racial equality, however, I think there is always room to improve and do more. It would be nice to see the library embrace and celebrate Black History Month, feature diverse authors and encourage more multi racial programming to reach our diverse community.

What are your thoughts on the national and local coronavirus response? Do you favor measures such as limiting operation of non-essential businesses and restricting indoor/outdoor dining? And do you favor a local mask mandate?

I think it's important to take the public's safety seriously when it comes to the Coronavirus and the measures taken to keep everyone safe. With more vaccinations being distributed, I am hopeful that we can return to fully operational businesses as soon as possible. I know the library is keeping up with the CDC guidelines including wearing masks inside the building. I am in favor of any measure that helps keep everyone safe and healthy.

What are your thoughts on the state and local coronavirus vaccine distribution, and how do you think local governments should work together to handle vaccine rollout?

I was recently able to receive my first dose vaccination in an orderly fashion, and I was very impressed with the efficiency and organization of the distribution at that site. I think the rollout of more vaccines will continue to aid in getting us all back on track in a safe and healthy manner.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

What sets me apart from the other candidates is my educational background, expertise in child development, and passion for our library that will bring a new energy, perspective and impact to our board. I am not running with any political motives nor do I have any endorsements, instead I am seeking the support of my community members as I continue on this journey.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

Of the seven candidates running, two are incumbents. I am not focusing on any particular failures during their terms, instead I am running to to help the library extend its reach and impact to Oak Lawn residents. One of the needs I plan to prioritize is for the board and library staff to unite and work more collaboratively and also to protect funding for the library.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have worked as a leader in many instances in my life. I have experience as a classroom teacher leading young children to learn and make good choices. I worked as an outdoor adventure camp counselor where I was personally challenged to push myself to new limits and new learning experiences. I have also been very fortunate to travel to many parts of the world. Traveling has opened my eyes to new perspectives, points of view, religion, politics and humanity. In this position, as Trustee, I can draw on the experiences of my past to approach our community, listen to the people of Oak Lawn and create positive changes. My current experiences working with families in early intervention has given me the opportunity to learn from others, leave my judgements behind and work as a team. Being a team player working with the Illinois Developmental Therapy Association has allowed me the opportunity to impact communities, policies and child development practices. All of these accomplishments come with unique skill sets that will help me excel at being a Trustee for the Oak Lawn Library Board.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

My term in office would be a success if during that time patrons increased their use and awareness of library opportunities. I would like to see the board continue to add to the programming and events available at the library for everyone. I do not want any more funds cut from the library budget either. We need strong funding to have a strong library and a strong community.

Why should voters trust you?

One definition of trust is a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something. I stand by those words and live up to those standards every day, and I plan to stick with the honest ways of my nature in order to be a valued Library Trustee.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

The library is supported by taxpayer dollars, and it’s important to know that those funds are being allocated fairly, justly, and efficiently in order to support events, staffing and quality programming. This past year has been financially difficult on many people. Families have lost incomes, struggled through health problems and loss of loved ones, and are trying to keep it all together. The library is a beacon of light during this time. I plan on advocating in favor of library funding and stability in order for it to continue to shine and serve all.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Throughout my life I have been inspired by the quote “be the change you wish to see in the world.” This is an opportunity for me to step up and make a meaningful contribution to Oak Lawn. I am committed to this responsibility and role as Library Trustee. Election day is April 6th and early voting starts at the Village Hall on March 22nd, so please get out there and vote for me as your Library Trustee!

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am an avid user of the library and I believe if you are a board member it's also important to participate in events, programs and regular use of the library. Our library has blessed me with books and fun opportunities to create crafts at craft night, fine tune my green thumb while planting at an after hours event, provide a safe place for children to explore and learn, and has introduced me to the world of audiobooks with Libby. I learned how to access movies and shows through Hoopla, and have picked up amazing interactive packets throughout this quarantine. The library truly has something for everyone, and I hope to bring those opportunities to light with the residents of Oak Lawn.

If you are a candidate for the April election, and would like to answer our Patch candidate questionnaire, please email lorraine.swanson@patch.com.