Dave Hammel - Treasurer

I graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a BS in Chemical Engineering. I went to work as a Metallurgical Engineer for a Brass Company for 5 years then for 30 Years with U.S. Steel. I retired in 2009. I moved to Des Moines in 1993 where I met my wife Barbara and we were married in 1998. Barbara is a native Iowan and graduate of the Braille School. She also went through the program at the Department for the Blind. In 2005 we adopted Jesse and Paul from China. They are twins who were born blind. We are members of the NFB. I am Treasurer of the Iowa Parents of Blind Children. I am also on the board of the National Parents of Blind Children. With my retirement I have more time to do volunteer work.

Elsie Monthei

Uprooted from the rugged individualism of Idaho, I graduated from Boise University, was replanted in Iowa and became a blossom of community service.  As a blind artist, I have supported blind services most of my life, giving my talents to fund-raising events for The Friends. I am a member of the Very Special Artists of Iowa and exhibit my art in various venues. As an avid reader, I am proud to be a board member of The Friends of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. As a gardener, I love to make things bloom.

Frank Strong

Frank Strong was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa and now lives with his wife, Jeanette, in Des Moines. Their son, John Strong, lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Frank has a lifelong interest in books and literacy. Frank served two terms on the Regional Library Board of Trustees for the State of Iowa. Frank worked for many years in advocacy for disability inclusion, empowerment, and employment.

Frank is currently in training to improve his braille literacy. Frank is an enthusiastic fan of the NLS E Reader, a new refreshable braille reading device available to patrons of the Iowa Library for the Blind.

Frank owns and operates a music production business. Frank produces shows like the Botanical Blues concert series and other events in the community. Frank teaches music skills and plays guitar and harmonica in schools and at the Iowa State Fair. Frank is a member of the Iowa Blues Hall of Fame.

Frank’s goals on the Friends Board are to raise the visibility of the Iowa Library for the Blind and to support its services to library patrons throughout the state.