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Yolande Wilburn 2020

 
 

Yolande Wilburn, Torrance City Library

Candidate for Board At-Large

    

 

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Biography

Hello fellow CLA members! I am Yolande Wilburn, and I currently serve as the Torrance City Librarian, overseeing six library locations. Before joining the City of Torrance, I served as the Nevada County Librarian in Nevada County, California. I have also worked for the Los Angeles County Library, Higher Colleges of Technology in Dubai, Chicago Public Library, and the University of Chicago Regenstein Library.

After many years of working in the private sector, I went back to school to obtain my Master's Degree in Librarianship because I believe that the work we do is 

critical to the infrastructure of society. As a young African American growing up in a world of turmoil during the 1960s and 70s, I spent a great deal of time learning about the world in the Library. A world that I was not allowed to be a part of, which was only available to me through the books that I read. I understand more than most that the Library plays a crucial role in providing equal access to information and opportunity. You do not need a college degree to be wise or smart or knowledgeable; you just need a library card. 

Candidate Statement

I absolutely believe in the power of libraries to change lives. We go about our jobs every day, providing people with the opportunity to try out new technologies, eat a meal, practice for an important test, expose themselves to art, religion, philosophy, and the world. We create safe havens for cooling, heating, collaboration, and space, quiet or not, to think and share. We serve during emergencies doing things we never thought we would be doing when we entered the world of library sciences. Even though we rarely see the result of what we do, I count myself as living proof that everything we do everyday matters to someone, whether we know it or not.
 
Library service looks a lot different than it did back when I was a child, and that is a good thing. In ten years, I expect it will look vastly different than it does today, and I want to be a part of that change. I am proud to be a part of the California Public Library Community that never stops learning, growing, and exploring the possibilities and opportunities for libraries. It is in that spirit that I seek to serve as your Board Member-At-Large. Thank you for your consideration.

Questionaire

1.     How do you define leadership?

Leadership is the authority given by the people to guide the direction of the organization, profession, or task.

2.     Why are you interested in this position?

My professional library career began at Chicago Public Library, where I worked with the team to develop the Innovation Lab. There was great controversy over the project, which has now become as standard in libraries as music CDs. I believe in innovation, resource sharing, and change. If we have learned nothing else this year, it is that we are capable of growth and that library service continues to change. I hope to be a part of guiding that change.

3.     How would you describe your personal leadership/communication style?

I am a quiet leader that believes in listening. I involve and consider stakeholders at all levels to help guide them to the understanding that it is in our best interest to move forward. I ask the all-important, "why." And believe autonomy allows the capacity for individuals to make informed decisions while achieving the overarching goals and vision.

4.      What strengths would you bring to the position?

I bring a broad perspective of library service in urban, rural, and academic settings. I am not afraid of the challenge that California Libraries will face concerning economic recovery and inclusion.

5.      What experience do you bring to this position?

I bring a lifetime of experience from the perspective of library users, and over 13 years of experience working in various positions from Library Page to Director. I currently serve as a member of the California Library Association (CLA) Legislative Committee, where I advocate for libraries, including California's K-12 Online Content Project.

6.     What issues or trends are particularly informing your work at this time?

COVID-19 and the reopening of libraries are of high priority at this time, as I am sure it is for many other libraries. How we continue to provide services under pandemic conditions as well as with the fires and other emergencies, including power shutoffs and failing infrastructure of our buildings, continue to be of concern. All of these, coupled with the continuing mental health and housing challenges that our communities face as well as ensuring we address equity, diversity, and inclusion are informing library work across the country.  

7.     Who are the thought leaders (in libraries or in other fields) who interest you?

I am always interested in those that step outside the box and meet the challenge. There are some great thought leaders that I have had the pleasure of working with over my years in California. I am grateful for the leadership that Carol Frost and Jacquelyn Brinkley have provided throughout my career. Susan Hildreth continues to be my library hero and probably does not even realize how much she has influenced me. Christina DiCaro always listens to what I have to say and then takes it back to our legislators for consideration using language they understand. Greg Lucas, although a newspaper guy turned librarian, listens to what we have to say and guides the process to achieve results.

8.     Who are the regional and statewide stakeholders libraries need to be in communication with?

I believe it is essential that we have regular communication with our local and regional library neighbors. As one goes, so go we all. Our legislators from each district are shared, so we need to speak with one voice to avoid competing dialogues. Collaborating and informing other private businesses and public organizations, including the California State Association of Counties, the League of California Cities, and cultural institutions, is imperative in not only avoiding duplication but for identifying partners to achieve success.

9.    What do you feel are the most critical challenges and opportunities facing California libraries right now?

I believe it was Jayanti who, last year when answering this question, stated that our biggest challenge was our identity crisis. I think she is correct. After the year we have just experienced, library service looks very different. The most critical challenges and opportunities facing California Libraries right now will be understanding what we keep and what goes under any future models.

10.    Describe your experience serving on Association committees and/or interest groups.

I currently serve on the CLA Legislative Committee. I have served on the NorthNet Library System Executive Board, the Nevada County Economic Resource Council Talent Connection Trask Force, and the InConcert Sierra Advisory Board in addition to my library association work.

11.   Describe your network of connections with library professionals and library stakeholders in California.

I have developed a variety of network connections across both northern and southern California. I have participated in Aspen Dialogues with various Library and community leaders and legislators. I have participated in National Library Legislative Day activities both in my districts and in Washington DC., where I advocated for library funding and support. I communicate with my colleagues regularly and appreciate the opportunity afforded by the State Library dialogues as well as at the consortium and Library Services Board meetings.