Kate Niehoff has been selected as the RAILS Director of Consulting and Continuing Education, effective January 8, 2024. Niehoff fills the space previously vacated by Joe Filapek, who was promoted to RAILS Associate Executive Director in July 2023.
Niehoff has worked in public libraries for 18 years with a focus on adult programming, outreach, and community engagement. Her most recent position has been Director of Community Engagement & Partnerships at the Schaumburg Township District Library. Previously, she has held positions at Arlington Heights Memorial Library, Forest Park Public Library, and Melrose Park Public Library.
Niehoff has also served on library committees including the Illinois Libraries Present steering committee, the LACONI POP Committee, the RAILS Community Engagement and Exhibits networking groups, and the RLA-CE Committee (now ReCharge Committee).
“Kate brings a great passion for learning and an innovative and collaborative approach to delivering services to the library community,” says Filapek. “We’re excited to have someone with Kate’s experience and abilities stepping into the role of Director of Consulting and Continuing Education for RAILS.”