Emily Weintraub (incumbent)
ADDRESS: 8 Trinity Place
OCCUPATION AND/OR PREVIOUS SERVICE TO THE TOWN: Art appraiser; currently at the end of a one-year term as a Trustee of the Wayland Free Public Library
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE AND/OR SOCIAL MEDIA, IF ANY: N/A
Who is consulted and how are decisions made when selecting materials to purchase? What part do Wayland residents play?
The Library’s Collection Development Policy outlines the materials selection process, which is overseen by the Library Director in collaboration with staff. Criteria used to judge quality are: authoritativeness, relevance, need, demand, value and reception. Patron requests are valued and encouraged.
What are the highlights of the library’s new five-year strategic plan?
The recently published 2026-2030 Strategic Plan of the Wayland Free Public Library focuses on several goals: enhancing building accessibility through modifications to entrances and paths and the redesign of some interior spaces, including the Children’s Room, to improve functionality. The Library seeks to foster inclusivity and diversity through forums, workshops and events focus on civic issues and cultural understanding. Another goal is expanded programming, including after school events for kids and teens, and weekend offerings. The Library will also showcase local authors, artists and musicians. Finally, The Library will strengthen community engagement and outreach through partnerships with local organizations, town departments and local businesses.
Candidate Statement
I am from Weston and have lived in Wayland with my husband since 2006. We have two children in the Wayland Public Schools. I hold degrees in French and Art History from Colby College and in 2009, I founded my art appraisal firm specializing in American and European fine art.
I am currently finishing a one-year special term as a Wayland Free Public Library Trustee and I look forward to serving a full term. The Wayland Free Public Library is important to me and to my family. It is a place where I conduct research and work on appraisal projects; where we participate in and enjoy programs, and where I served as a board member of the Friends of the Wayland Public Library for many years.
Libraries today serve many purposes: they are places for quiet study, community gathering points, learning centers offering diverse programming, and tech hubs offering courses and 3D printing. The Wayland Free Public Library is currently adapting our historic building to meet the needs of patrons in the 21st century. I am eager to be part of the process that will ensure accessibility, dedicated spaces and ease of use for all patrons. The Library’s recently published Strategic Plan for 2026-2030 identified patron wishes which are being implemented, including: expanded programming, especially for teens; repairs and maintenance in the Children’s Room; and weekend programming for families. The Library holds an important place in our town as it is open to the community every day during the school year, and serves all age groups with its materials, programming, services and outreach. I hope to continue to participate in the Library’s growth and to support its mission to serve the community to the very best of its ability.
Over the past year as a Library Trustee, I have tried to apply advice that has served me well professionally: to learn continuously. This approach has helped me to understand the many facets of the Library’s operation.
My ideal day off in Wayland would include playing tennis at Longfellow, browsing new releases at the Library and a trip to Chocolate Therapy.
