By Michele Justic
As Managing Content Editor of the Five Towns Jewish Times, I balance my job with raising my children, which includes regular trips to the Peninsula Public Library. I have seen first-hand how Carolynn Matulewicz brings new energy and ideas since she assumed leadership. I have seen how the staff tries new ways to maximize the limited space of the 1950s-era facility. But it’s clear that the library needs creative new ways to accommodate the evolving needs of the Five Towns community. That’s why my campaign promise to you has been, “A Better Future for Peninsula Public Library.” My vision is toward the future, how best we can accommodate our children and future generations by planting the seeds today toward building literacy and good citizenship in our young people.
In 1771, Ben Franklin wrote: “These libraries have improved the general conversation of the Americans” and “made the common tradesmen and farmers as intelligent as most gentlemen from other countries.” Today’s libraries stand as repositories of knowledge, bringing together people in the community to engage, educate, and grow.
As explained in previous articles, I place a premium on building literacy, especially in our youth. As a mom, active member of Yeshiva of South Shore PTA, and past president of Rambam Women’s League, I have seen how literacy and education methods have changed over the years to suit the needs of the younger generation. Libraries have a vital role in partnering with parents and schools to encourage reading and education by offering the best options for children along with a dynamic environment that encourages regular attendance and exploration of interests.
The Reading Is Fundamental program mentioned in my first article seems to have struck a chord. Former Brooklynites such as myself remember the nice ritual of going to the library on a regular basis and the excitement of “earning” a free book after a certain amount of time. Many have responded to my article and agree that we need to inspire our younger generations the same way.
As Volunteer Programming Director for Chabad of the Five Towns Smile on Seniors Program, I have seen the need for social activities to bring people of all ages together. Libraries play a vital role by offering a welcoming space and diverse programming to introduce people to new activities and teach them new skills so they can bond together as a community.
I was recently treated to a tour of the newly revamped Oceanside Library to see the spacious grounds as well as the innovative way they have incorporated trending hobbies and technology into the library as a draw. Getting people out of the house is more complicated, yet vital, in this digital age, as noted by the experts in my second article, and new ideas need to be incorporated with old favorites to attract people to the library.
As a child, I became fascinated with my local library. This continued during my work-study job at NYU’s Bobst Library, where I gained experience in the Dewey Decimal System, book preservation, and how to navigate the library to find the most appropriate sources. After graduating with a degree in Psychology and Politics and a minor in art, I established a career in Human Resources where I worked my way up to Director. I enjoyed managing everything from schedules to snow days to compensation and benefits while also creating a positive productive workforce. I left to stay home with my children, but was fortunate enough to find a work from home job at the Five Towns Jewish Times, where my communications skills took priority. After a few years, I rose to Managing Content Editor, managing employees, writers, and compensation while meeting deadlines. It still feels like a treat to be paid to produce this quality publication each week.
Which brings me to our present leaders who I’m honored to have worked with and earned their endorsements. People like Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, who writes, “I’m proud to endorse Michele Justic for Peninsula Library Trustee because she understands that libraries are more than buildings—they’re community anchors. Michele brings the right balance of experience, integrity, and common-sense leadership to ensure our library continues to serve families, seniors, and students across the Five Towns with transparency, accountability, and vision.”
Assemblyman Ari Brown writes, “I am pleased to endorse Michele Justic for the position of Trustee for the Peninsula Public Library. Michele and her husband, Josh, are deeply committed to our community, and their dedication to improving the quality of life here is evident in their active involvement. As a parent, volunteer, and advocate, Michele has shown strong leadership and a passion for making our neighborhood a better place. She will bring these qualities to the library board, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for all. I fully support Michele’s candidacy and encourage you to do the same.”
5TJT Publisher Larry Gordon writes, “I have known Michele Justic for 20 years. Anything she sets out to do, she achieves with outstanding results—whether managing the content of the Five Towns Jewish Times or supporting our local elected leaders in their campaigns. Her professionalism and ability to build positive relationships with everyone has endeared her to our family and the community at large. That’s why I wholeheartedly endorse Michele as the next Peninsula Public Library trustee.”
Councilwoman Missy Miller notes, “Michele Justic is someone we can all trust!”
Irving J. Kaminetsky, Commissioner of District #1 of the Town of Hempstead, writes, “I am pleased to endorse Michele Justic for the Library Board. She has an incredible work ethic. I am amazed by her informed knowledge of the interests of the residents in our Five Towns. Her enthusiasm and dedication into all her endeavors make her the perfect person to be elected to the Library Board.”
Jacqueline B. Handel, President of the Lawrence Civic Association, writes “It is a pleasure for me to endorse Michele Justic for the Library Board of District #15. She is an extraordinary person and is always attentive to the interests of the residents of the Five Towns. Her enthusiasm and devotion to her family, life and work is admirable. Her abilities and accomplishments make her the perfect person to be elected to the Library Board.”
Jewish Vote GOP Founder Cindy Grosz writes, “Michele Justic has been a community leader within many organizations and schools for years. She understands accountability and transparency as a respected journalist. We proudly support her local campaign.”
I hope you will remember my campaign promise to build a better future for our Peninsula Public Library when you vote for me on May 20th at the District 15 School Board and Library Board Election. Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Know before you go. You can find your polling place by visiting: https://nb.findmypollplace.com/lawrenceufsd. n
