James Crossman, Trustee
Appointed May 1, 2019
Why I Love EPL
Like many Edmontonians, EPL Trustee James Crossman’s first EPL memories are from participating in EPL reading clubs when he was younger. “I grew up in Edmonton and EPL has always been a part of my life,” he recalls. “I still have vivid memories visiting the Londonderry branch for Summer Reading Club as a child. Now that I have children of my own, I am enjoying the experience of watching them learn and grow at EPL as well.”
As a dedicated supporter of public libraries, James believes public libraries are essential pillars of a healthy community that give people opportunities to grow, create, share and build. “The most positive impact the library has is empowerment,” said James. “Whatever your interests or goals are, EPL empowers Edmontonians to pursue their endless potential and achieve their dreams.”
Proudly serving the EPL Board since 2019, James is inspired by the incredible customer service EPL staff provide to help every customer—from helping someone sign up for a free library card, finding an obscure book in the collections, or supporting access to online services using EPL computers. “For me, interactions between customers and staff emphasize the critical public service EPL provides,” said James. “It is truly an open and welcoming public space with absolutely no barriers to access.”
About James
James Crossman is a Data Centre Design Engineer with PowerHouse Data Centre Group, an Alberta-based company providing design, procurement, construction, and commissioning services for mission critical facilities. James works with multi-disciplinary teams of executives, engineers, project managers, suppliers, tradespeople, IT managers, and facility operators to deliver projects to a broad range of clients.
Prior to this role James spent over ten years as an electrical engineer, shareholder, and director of a medium-sized Edmonton-based engineering firm. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton. James excels at bridging communication between technical and business audiences and can effectively distill complex technical concepts.
James believes that projects succeed at the intersection of bold leadership, creative vision, and technical excellence. A life-long Edmonton Public Library customer, James has recently discovered the joy of sharing the Library with his two young children. James is a passionate advocate for public libraries and believes they can play a critical role in helping people from all walks of life succeed.
