It’s not always easy to get folks interested in a Library Board race. This year we as members of the Oak Park community have an exciting opportunity to elect a young man who can bring a new and vital energy to our Library Board. I strongly urge you to vote for Matt Fruth for Oak Park Library Trustee.
I have had the opportunity to work with Matt Fruth over the past few years, and let me assure you that he is passionate about the work of our libraries.
In a recent conversation, Mr. Fruth expressed a deep sense of concern about assaults on the rights of library patrons to access information. Mr. Fruth described our libraries as “outposts of the First Amendment.” I had not thought of it that way, but he is absolutely right.
Indeed, we have a candidate who sees our libraries as more than just repositories for books, but also as vibrant community centers that serve a valuable role in our democracy. That is type of forward-thinking individual we need representing our community as a library trustee. I’m glad to see that Mr. Fruth chose to take the lead on this important issue.
As a patron of the Maze Branch Library, I am concerned about pending renovations of our much-loved neighborhood library building.
Matt Fruth has expressed a deep desire to make certain the renovation process keeps the open, family-friendly, atmosphere while still making sure the facility meets accessibility guidelines.
I know that Mr. Fruth is also a neighbor of the Maze Branch Library, and I’m pleased that someone so close to that facility wishes to join the Library Board.
Perhaps most importantly, as a young adult, Matt Fruth can provide much-needed representation to the young people of our community. One of the primary patron groups of our library system is young people. They deserve someone like Matt Fruth, a recent college graduate, to look out for their interests.
I cannot adequately express how impressed I am with Matt Fruth. I am certain he will provide outstanding leadership as an Oak Park Library Trustee. I hope that you join me on April 5 in casting a vote for Matt Fruth.
Robert J. Baren
Oak Park
