Name: Laura Begani

Age (as of Election Day): 48

Town/City of Residence: Oak Lawn

Office Sought: Oak Lawn Public Library Board of Trustees

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race): Independent

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No.

Education: Bachelor of Arts Illinois State University, masters of library and information science from Dominican University, and a master’s in educational administration from Governor’s State University.

Occupation: Library Media Specialist – 25 years

Campaign website: Brightmore and Begani for Library Board Trustees Facebook page

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: None.

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

The Oak Lawn Public Library has faced many challenges during the pandemic. Some interruption of service was inevitable, but the staff has worked tirelessly to serve the community. I intend to help get the library back to normal when it is safe for staff and patrons.

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 support equality and the right to demonstrate your beliefs. I believe that the demonstrations held this past summer prove that there continues to be inequality. I think we can do better at the way we treat one another.

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

Oak Lawn is a diverse community with diverse needs. The public library has a duty to serve everyone in the community. I am certain that improvements can always be made. Materials and programs that support all racial groups would be important in providing equity.

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?

The coronavirus has clearly affected all of our lives. I am happy to see improvements in curbing the virus and the availability of a vaccine. The measures that have been recommended such as limiting operation of non-essential businesses have helped to mitigate fatalities from this virus. I favor a mask mandate and I believe that the mitigations that have been put in place are important to keep residents safe. I continue to follow the guidelines at work every day and I will follow what is recommended by our state leaders.

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 am happy that the vaccine has become available. I am concerned that many people are having trouble signing up and finding a vaccine. Local governments can continue to improve the rollout especially to those who need assistance signing up for a vaccine.

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

My experience working in libraries for the past 25 years gives me a unique perspective. I earned my master’s in Library Science in 1996 and have been working in school libraries ever since. I think I can bring my experiences and knowledge to continue to support and improve library services.

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

The current trustees have served the board for many years. I believe that it is time for a change and some new perspectives.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Library staff are the ones who keep the library going, they are the heart of the library. I intend to support them and their efforts to serve the Oak Lawn community.

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

I have worked successfully in school libraries for 25 years. Every year I strive to make the library a welcoming place, a place of learning, and a place where students and staff can find answers. These are things I am proud of and consider a great accomplishment.

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

I will be successful if I can work with the other trustees to create a successful working relationship with the library staff.

Why should voters trust you?

I have dedicated my career to working in libraries. I believe strongly that libraries are the heart of a community whether that community is the town you live in or the school you attend. Voters can trust me because I have a passion for libraries and I want to continue the tradition of a strong library that serves its community as Oak Lawn Public Library has for decades.

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

The public library serves every resident of Oak Lawn. The taxpayer dollars that are allocated to the library should be spent thoughtfully. I believe in using tax dollars to support the community, and it’s needs.

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:

“Always do your best” is the advice given to me by my parents ever since I was a child. Although this is simple and common advice I continue to do my best in my work and as a parent.

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

I am a lifelong resident of Oak Lawn. I chose to live here and raise my family here. I have two daughters who attend District 123 schools. I have always been a supporter of the library. I hope to lend my time and experience to this community by serving as a library trustee.