News from RAILS & Libraries

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, Volo Museum in Volo! Volo Museum is a World Famous, family-owned, all-day tourist destination in Volo, IL. We are known across the world for our all-indoor showroom...

In compliance with Illinois statutes and administrative rules [23 Ill. Adm. Code 3030.200], annual certification is required of ALL library system members to retain system membership and eligibility for grants administered by the Illinois State Library. Examples of Illinois State Library grants...

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...

It's the final episode of 2023! Dan and Monica talk about all of the upcoming deadlines that members need to keep in mind during the holiday season, including the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, submitting comments for the draft Illinois State Digital Equity Plan, and making sure you're in...

RAILS and Western Illinois University are excited to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 Western Illinois Digital Access Mini-Grant Program. These grants are made possible by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Office of Broadband. Libraries can apply...

RAILS and Western Illinois University are excited to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 Western Illinois Chromebook Lending Grants. These grants are made possible by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Office of Broadband. About the Grant: This grant is...

As part of our ongoing commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), RAILS provides opportunities for members to learn and apply concepts that build equitable library organizations. We are pleased to announce the latest offering to our membership, Social Justice in Public Libraries from...

RAILS Executive Director Monica Harris introduces our new Director of Marketing and Communications, Dan Bostrom! Together, they discuss what's on the agenda for the upcoming RAILS Member Update, a new EDI resource for members called Freedom Lifted, and the My Library Is... grant opportunity that is...

We welcome staff at all levels from all types of RAILS libraries (academic, public, school, and specialized) to join the RAILS Member Update on Wednesday, November 15, from 1 to 2 p.m. on Zoom. Topics will include new EDI member resource information, broadband updates in Illinois, the My Library Is...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, Lyric Opera in Chicago! At Lyric, you’ll be amazed, replenished, and inspired with must-see, must-hear live experiences. Through the timeless power of voice, acting...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Chicago! The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is a Chicago community institution and the first...

RAILS promotes Dan Bostrom to Director of Marketing and Communications, effective October 31. Bostrom fills the space vacated by Mary Witt, who retired in July 2023. Bostrom first joined RAILS in 2018 as the Member Engagement Manager in the communications department. Bostrom has built a strong...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, the 40th Chicago International Children’s Film Festival in Chicago! Celebrating 40 years! Since 1984, FACETS' Chicago International Children's Film Festival has set a...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, David Davis Mansion State Historical Site in Bloomington, IL! The David Davis Mansion was the home of David Davis, the friend, mentor, and campaign manager for Abraham...

Monica recaps the successful banned books week program that she participated in with Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and encourages members to submit their public comments on Public Act 103-0100 before the October 25 deadline. Dan and Monica also discuss the recent increase in library bomb...