Elections 2013: Linda Zec-Prajka

Campaign Info

• Position Sought: Orland Park Public Library Board
• Website: www.LindaZec.com
• Email:
• Phone:
• Hometown: Orland Park

Personal Info

• Family: Husband, David Prajka; sons Tim and Nicholas
• Education: Benedictine University 1986: Business and Spanish minor; William Rainey Harper College: A.A. and A.S. (mathematics) 1984
• Occupation: Current: Communications Specialist at CCSD146; former IT Specialist at Orland Park Public Library; Former Liability Adjuster at CNA Insurance

• Political Party Affiliation:

Candidate Questions

Why are you seeking office?

I have a strong connection to the library. I was identified approximately 10 years ago by (now retired) Sharon Wsol as a strong library ally. She asked me, personally, to work on the campaign to help pass the new library referendum. I spoke publicly on behalf of the library, and I was proud of my efforts when it passed. My family utilizes the library not just to check out books, but our sons were encouraged by me to be volunteers for several years, and participate in the teen programs, helps with kids programs, etc. It is a part of our life. We want it to not just remain a part of our lives, but be a part of the lives of the kids that are growing up in this digital world. No need to visit a library, right? You can get the book wirelessly. Wrong, the library is so much more and I feel that sense of responsibility to help carry the library into the future, since I was there from its beginning.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

Increasing patronage across the board for all age groups.

What sets you apart from other candidates? 

Being a former employee, I have a unique perspective on the library from the other side.

What are the biggest challenges facing the library? How do you propose to solve them?

Patronage of the library is probably the biggest challenge that I see at hand. Programming for ages 18-50 need to increase. Classes such as financial, how to use Quickbooks, cooking, knitting, photography, web design, graphic building, and even classes on Shutterfly. Classes will allow the taxpayers to enjoy the benefits of their dollars at the library. That is why a wide-variety is crucial. I also think a juice bar, cafe is a thought that needs to be kept as a possibility, even partnering with Jamba Juice, Blissful Banana or similar.

What can the library do to stay relevant as technology evolves?

Stay ahead of the curve, basically. The library has always tried to do so, even when I worked there. However, more than ever, the pressure is on for libraries, since the ebook/ereader have come to join the games.

How do you propose constructing a budget that doesn’t burden taxpayers, while keeping the library competitive and desirable?

Budgets are of high-importance. They need to be scrutinized to the fullest. I live by the motto: "need vs. want". I don't want money wasted on frivolous items that can actually go towards better programs.

Are there other services the library could provide, and if so what are they?

Yes. They need a Mac in the adult area, first off, and it needs to be loaded with many of the common apps. I feel that the library needs to expand its current pc software to include professional video editing and other similar programs. They should also consider classes on digital photography, and other areas. Adult/Teen classes including how to: cook, crochet/knit, money management classes, job interview classes, and others, all without charge to Orland Park Library tax payers. More classes, so that the library becomes even more of a benefit to the community.

What’s you favorite book?

"How to Practice: The Way to a Meaningful Life" by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Have you ever been charged with a crime? Were you convicted? If yes, please say what the charge was, and what was the case's outcome as it stands.

Never.

Are there any candidates in other races you would like to endorse here?

D230: Dalton, Serratore, Peterson, Catalano; D135: Carroll, Maratea, Kulak & Berry; Clerk: Mehalek ; Fire: Schirmacher

Read about other candidates running for the library board.