News from RAILS & Libraries

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...

From the My Library Is... Blog: “Your Free Pass to…” was a partnership with Moline Public Library and Rock Island Public Library to create a cost-effective marketing campaign to increase awareness and library use in neighboring communities that are underserved, racially diverse, and may face...

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...

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library celebrated the art of making with the grand opening of its newest exhibit, Community & Craftivism, showcasing how art can become an opportunity to build community and advocate for change, one stitch at a time. Partners, community members and more stopped by the...

When it comes to advocacy, numbers often speak louder than words. Whether it’s the public library board, school superintendent, or a taxpaying resident, they need numbers to understand the value of libraries and provide support. Our members rely on RAILS’s data team to research, analyze, and present...

JJC LTA.205 Information and Internet Literacy (3 Credits) Begins June 30 and goes to August 7. Meets online with Adjunct Instructor, Kate Bradley. No commuting costs and in-district tuition for those who have no program locally. This course, 1 of the 9 classes needed to earn your LTA certificate at...

From the My Library Is... Blog: Does your academic library have an archive collection? Is it located in a storage closet? Or basement? If you asked your college community about the archive, what would they say? Our library team took an alternative approach to engagement and created multidimensional...