News from RAILS & Libraries

Episode 3.3 of Can't Shelve This is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Artificial intelligence can’t replace teachers, but it is changing how students learn. Janette and Leah are joined by Emily Flach (Learning Technology Center) to discuss AI’s growing presence in schools...

Join fellow library workers as we eat, drink, and compete at the Firehouse Grill's weekly trivia night. This is a casual social event for all library workers who want to expand their network through camaraderie and fun. Pizza will be provided by LACONI Recharge and attendees may purchase drinks at...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sep 21, 2026 Rockford Public Library Partners with Barack Obama Presidential Library for "America at 250" Workshop Series Three-part series will teach residents how to access federal and local government records Rockford, IL. — From the desk of the president to the minutes of a...

Discover, explore, connect, and save! RAILS is excited to announce a new event for library staff who want to learn more about resources, products, and services available through RAILS Deals & Discounts. The RAILS Virtual Vendor Fair is a full-day online event that allows attendees to explore...

Carthage Public Library District is holding a Grand Opening celebration for our new library building at 250 N 1st Street in Carthage, IL. The ceremony will begin at 2:00 on Sunday, October 18 and continue with an open house until 4:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Registration for ARRTcon 2026 is open! We are excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author Rachel Harrison as our featured speaker. ARRTcon brings together library staff and readers’ advisory practitioners for a full day of practical sessions designed to deepen your skills, spark new ideas...

The library and smaller employer candidate for IMRF Executive Trustee. Ballots are due December 10.

Join ATLAS at Orland Park Public Library from 10 am-12 pm on Tuesday, October 20, for an engaging panel discussion exploring practical ways libraries can create more inclusive spaces, services, and experiences. What does an accessible library look like? This panel will explore accessibility in...

The 2026-27 SLATE Census starts today! Visit the updated census site for more information on the data you’ll need for this year’s form. The census is open through February 28th, giving library staff five full months to participate when it’s most convenient. Every Illinois school is invited to...

This fall, RAILS is inviting you to take advantage of one of our many events, programs, and services! With RAILS, your library can save money, gain new skills, and connect with other libraries. Learn more: News & Events RAILS Announces New Branding for Find More Illinois Check out the new Find More...

RAILS and Cook County are inviting library workers to help shape, strengthen, and sustain the Cook County Library Digital Navigator Network (CCDNN). Guiding Team members will bring their experience and community knowledge to decisions about training, resources, communications, and other network...

“The Streator Public Library provides material and information to help all community residents fulfill their personal and educational needs.” - S treator Public Library Mission Statement It has been many decades since the Streator Public Library Trustees decided what purpose we have, but those words...

The 2026 ILA Annual Conference is October 6-8 at the Peoria Civic Center in Peoria. There are multiple ways you can connect with RAILS staff and Board Members during the conference, and we look forward to seeing you. Conference attendees can stop by the RAILS booth #401 to chat with RAILS staff and...

The Crystal Lake Public Library launched its Library of Things collection in March 2025, and the community response was immediate and enthusiastic. One of the most popular items in this collection is the TonieBox, an interactive audio player intended for children ages 1-12. Each box has audio...

Dan and Monica break down the latest at RAILS: 📣 your newest tool to advocate for school libraries 🎯 Find More Illinois's new look 💰 how RAILS can help make your learning needs a reality 👋 where to find us at the ILA Conference Relevant Links: SLATE Video SLATE Data Dashboard Find More Illinois...