Hello, my name is Colin Bird-Martinez. I am proud to be a neighbor, a husband, and a child of Oak Park.
Childhood and Education
I have deep roots in Oak Park, where my family has lived for 38 years. I attended Irving Elementary, Percy Julian Middle School, and Oak Park and River Forest High School. As a child, I took advantage of after-school and summer programs at the Maze Branch Library, and in high school, the Main Library became my go-to place for studying and meeting friends. I know firsthand how vital our library system is to the youth in Oak Park and will ensure their needs remain front and center.
Professional Career
I bring over a decade of experience in management consulting and strategic planning from my time at Standard & Poor’s and Boston Consulting. I currently work in strategic planning for one of America’s largest automakers, which has given me a unique blend of fiscal and operational expertise that I will bring to the board.
Community Involvement
For more than 10 years, I’ve dedicated myself to serving the communities I live and work in. I co-founded a Chicago nonprofit focused on community education, and for the past five years, I’ve been an elected board member—now Vice President—of Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation, one of Chicago’s largest nonprofit affordable housing providers. Additionally, I serve on the Financial Committee at the Oak Park Township, reflecting my commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.
Platform and Vision
I believe that every Oak Parker has the right to free and equitable access to a wide range of ideas, bolstered by strong privacy protections and inclusive library practices. Please read my Values for additional context.
Why I’m Running
I love this community, and serving as a trustee of the Oak Park Public Library is the best way I can contribute my time and expertise. I’m confident that my combination of financial acumen and dedication to social service will help ensure our library remains a welcoming, forward-thinking resource for all.
Core Values
Equitable Access to Resources
Youth Programming & Community Engagement
Inclusive & Diverse Collections
Ensuring equitable access breaks down barriers, supports learning, and respects each individual’s right to information.
Inclusive & Diverse Collections
Youth Programming & Community Engagement
Inclusive & Diverse Collections
Diversity in library materials ensures everyone sees themselves represented and has the opportunity to learn about others’ experiences.
Youth Programming & Community Engagement
Youth Programming & Community Engagement
Youth Programming & Community Engagement
Collaborating with community partners, including schools, reinforces the library’s status as a vibrant community hub and fosters civic engagement, particularly among Oak Park’s youth.