News from RAILS & Libraries

RAILS promotes Stacy Palmisano to Executive Assistant, effective July 14, 2025. Stacy fills the position recently vacated by Emily Bailey, who retired on July 11, 2025. Stacy first joined RAILS in 2019 as an Administrative Assistant, supporting the day-to-day needs of RAILS employees and board...

In celebration of The Wall That Heals, coming to Antioch July 17th - July 20th, hosted by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and American Legion Post 748, the Library has a series of exhibits called "Remembering the Vietnam War: The Experience at the APLD". Walk-In, no registration required. Wednesday...

RAILS Catalyst is now accepting applications for this exciting new leadership development program for library staff! We’re looking for professionals currently working in RAILS member libraries who are eager to expand their leadership responsibilities or enhance their impact in their current roles...

From the My Library Is... Blog: Background Basics Hibbard Elementary School is in the diverse Albany Park Community of Chicago. Our poverty level is 88% and most of our students are English Learners. Nine years ago, our school librarian left for another district based on cuts to many Chicago Public...

RAILS Library Resource Specialist Jody Rubel will retire on Friday, July 18, after twelve and a half years of outstanding service. Jody began her work supporting Illinois libraries over twenty years ago while serving in various roles within the Suburban Library System (SLS) and Metropolitan Library...

Library officials are proud to announce that the Gail Borden Public Library has been awarded the highly coveted John Cotton Dana Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in the library world, for its transformative "Violins of Hope" project. This national recognition, presented annually by the...

RAILS Executive Assistant Emily Bailey will retire on Friday, July 11, 2025, after eleven years of service at the library system. Emily graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Elmhurst University and began her career in local government at West Central Municipal Conference. She honed her...

We’re stronger together, and nothing demonstrates that more than the growth of our Deals & Discounts program in 2024. Our Deals & Discounts team brings the best library products and services to our member libraries at the lowest possible prices. From trials to invoicing, we do all the heavy lifting...

From the My Library Is... Blog: The Zion-Benton Public Library is taking the initiative to become a friendlier and more welcoming place for those with sensory needs. Participating in storytimes, enjoying picture books, and feeling secure in community spaces are experiences we wish for patrons of all...

The Gail Borden Library officially cut the ribbon on its South Elgin Branch on June 21, marking the occasion with the South Elgin Branch Grand Reopening Celebration. The South Elgin branch had undergone a 10-month-long renovation and expansion designed with the community in mind. The grand opening...

RAILS is excited to announce RAILS Catalyst, a brand-new leadership development program for library staff. If you’re passionate about advancing your library career and building your leadership skills, we encourage you to apply! RAILS Catalyst will feature real-time coaching from a leadership expert...

Igniting Young Minds Empowering Learners Through Classroom Libraries Thursday, July 31st, 2025 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Downers Grove Public Library, Program Room Presented by Nicole Lawton, Jessica Staedter, and Dr. Jenny Shah Are you looking to enrich your classroom library with more inclusive and...

From the My Library Is... Blog: The RAILS My Library Is... Grant provided the crucial financial resources necessary to bring our vision to life. Our plan, initially called the “Ready Player One” Lounge, was to create a visible, public gaming venue that would serve as an ongoing draw for student...

From the My Library Is... Blog: On March 14, 2025, Executive Order 14238, “Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy,” called for the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). RAILS is spotlighting libraries and institutions in Illinois that have received IMLS...

Dan and Monica break down the latest in this month’s RAILS Minute: 🗳️ Results from the 2025 RAILS Board election 💰 Key updates on IMLS funding 🌐 A new digital equity opportunity for suburban Cook County libraries 📊 A spotlight on the impactful work from the RAILS data team Relevant Links: RAILS...