Loren Floto: Talcott Free Library board

This statement represents the opinion of the author and not necessarily the position of Rockton-Roscoe News. Residents of Rockton, Roscoe, or South Beloit are invited to contribute.

Hi, I’m Loren Floto, a trustee and current secretary of the Talcott Free Library board.  I’m running for a two-year term on the board in the consolidated election coming up April 1,  I’d appreciate your vote.

My wife Jan and I have lived in Rockton since 1977, and raised our four children in the Rockton and Hononegah schools. I’ve held a library card and supported Talcott since 1977, having previously served one term as trustee in the 1980s. Our library is a wonderful place to learn and explore, thanks to broad community support of our referendum.  Thank you!

The referendum enabled us to update our restrooms and add shelf space in 2021.  We added three private study rooms, a children’s area, a teen area, the Keefer program room and a dumbwaiter for safe transfer of materials to and from the basement.

We employ a dedicated, well-trained and hard-working staff and director to maintain our facilities and assist patrons. During my time on the board, we adopted a no-fines policy which has served our patrons well. Talcott is truly a great resource for all of Rockton and a vital defender of free speech and access to information.

I’m retired for a 26-year teaching career in Harlem district, Hononegah High School and Rockford Public Schools. For ten years I led the Rock River Sweep with Tricia Davey, and was a weekly volunteer helping to restore native species at Nygren Wetlands. In my younger days I served our country for three years as a Peace Corps Volunteer working in forestry in the Dominican Republic and Chile.

Running for the library board is my way of supporting our beautiful library as we seek to provide resources for our entire community, from toddlers to seniors.  Thank you for your consideration.