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June 17, 2026
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Cornwall Public Library
Latest Newsletter

Janine Bixler

April 11, 2012

1. Why are you running for a position as library trustee?
I decided to run because I truly geek libraries! Where else can anyone borrow stacks of books, learn about anything you ponder, travel to foreign lands virtually or through crisp pages, gather with people who share an interest or talent, experience the arts and share ideas…for free? I am impressed by the variety of rich programs our library offers weekly for community members from toddlers to seniors. As trustee, I pledge to support the library to continue to meet the diverse needs of individuals in the community as a space for learning and enjoyment—in the many ways we define literacy in 21st century, from e-readers and the Internet to our classic forms of books, newspapers, and as a meeting place to collaborate with others. I applaud the dedicated staff of our library for offering our community endless programs, and would be honored to serve as a trustee.

2. Why do you think that you can make a difference in the library's future?
First, I think there are many qualities about the library that should stay the same, so I hope to ensure that the current programs and resources valued by the community continue. In addition, I think it is important to continue to find ways to reach out to those who may not use the library or who have needs that are not currently being met. For instance, I participated (to provide an opportunity for families to learn about the library’s Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) program) in one of the library’s fall open houses for families whose children attend Cornwall Elementary School. I was impressed with the high attendance and amazed by how many library cards were issued in that one night! It was clear by talking with some of the parents that many of the families were unaware of the great programs and free resources available to them and their children. I believe that I can bring a perspective and knowledge base in literacy that can help determine future opportunities for readers and writers of all levels. As an educator, always on a limited budget, I have learned how to seek rich resources, with little or no cost.

3. Tell us a bit about yourself.
I have a BS in Elementary Education with an English Concentration and Writing Arts Minor, and an MS in Elementary/Gifted Education from the State University of New York, College at Oswego; and a PhD in Language and Literacy Education from Georgia State University. I have 10 years teaching experience in grades 2-6; and have worked full time at the college level for 12 years. Currently, I am a professor at Mount Saint Mary College who teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in literacy. My service and research focus on culturally responsive literacy learning; preservice teacher book clubs; and intergenerational book talks in libraries throughout New York State, as part of the New York Council for the Humanities program, Together—Book Talk for Kids and Parents.
In the community, I am a founding member of the Cornwall Community Co-Op, and an active board member since 2010. My dog, Milo, and I are a Reading Education Assistance Dog (READ) Team for the Cornwall Public Library. Since fall of 2008 Milo and I visit the library for kids to practice their reading to an uncritical and empathetic furry friend.

I live in Salisbury Mills with my husband Jim and Milo. We love hiking Black Rock Forest and Schunnemunk Mountain, and kayaking in the Hudson River.




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