The ninth annual Directors University will be held August 4 - 6, 2025, at the Hilton DoubleTree in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. This professional development is intended for first-time directors and directors new to Illinois from public libraries of all shapes and sizes.
Directors University (DU) is a continuing education program that provides new directors of public libraries, regardless of whether they hold a Masters in Library Science, with foundational training in public library directorship. It includes a comprehensive multi-day in-person institute and five robust virtual sessions.
The mission of the program is to provide public library directors with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities and to provide them with the skills they need to better serve their constituents. Training topics include an overview of the types of public libraries, library systems, library policies, human resources, legal, building maintenance, basic budgeting and finance, board relationships, state grant programs, customer service, and resource sharing.
The in-person institute will be held August 4-6, 2025, at the Hilton DoubleTree in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. Accepted participants will receive a complete schedule with topics and speakers.
During June and July, there are five virtual sessions that will be live and recorded. Participants will be able to work at their own pace and have an opportunity to meet virtually with a facilitator on the topic, discuss with other directors, and ask questions.
Registration is $200. Learn more and register. Applications will be accepted until May 15.