Board forwards student commissioner candidate Alyssa to mayor for appointment

The Newberg Public Library Board interviewed a single candidate for the student commissioner slot and unanimously voted to forward her name to the mayor for appointment.

At the March meeting, the board heard from Alyssa, a George Fox University student and pre-law major originally from Alaska, who said the library was "the best public resource for information" and described herself as a careful listener who would "try to understand the rationale behind ideas" when making decisions. Director Corey Burkel confirmed the candidate’s name and background during introductions.

Board members asked a set of prepared questions about why libraries matter, inclusion and meeting availability. Alyssa told the board she would participate by Zoom if the academic calendar required remote attendance and emphasized balancing multiple perspectives when deciding on library issues.

After the interview, Director Corey Burkel moved to forward the candidate to the mayor for appointment; a second was recorded as "Jessica seconds." The board then voted by voice and the motion carried; the board noted the appointment still requires Alyssa’s acceptance and that the board would notify her by email.

The board will continue its regular meeting schedule on the third Thursday of the month. No further action on the student commissioner was recorded at the meeting.