News & Announcements from RAILS

RAILS is excited to share last year’s highlights in the 2025 RAILS Annual Report! “This report combines data and storytelling to show how RAILS is making a difference for libraries across Illinois.” said RAILS Executive Director Monica Harris. “Last year's version was a hit with our members, and we...

RAILS is starting the process of creating a new strategic plan, and we would like your input. We're asking staff at RAILS member libraries to participate in an online survey to share your knowledge and understanding of RAILS, the work we do, and how it affects you and your libraries. Any level staff...

RAILS announces the launch of RAILS Academy, a new online learning platform designed to support the professional development of staff at RAILS member libraries. Powered by Niche Academy, RAILS Academy provides free, on-demand access to hundreds of tutorials on topics ranging from the ethics of...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, the Chicago Master Singers! Let Chicago Master Singers immerse you in extraordinary musical experiences that lift the human spirit! Concerts are held at Glenview...

Dan and Monica break down the latest in this month's episode: ⚖️ Updates on eBook legislation, plus all the other bills you need to know about 📱 An upcoming ILA event to help you engage with legislators 💙 Your chance to help guide RAILS into the future ☑️ A preview of our strategic plan timeline...

Would you like to work with a dedicated team of colleagues representing all types and sizes of libraries to help shape the future of a member-driven, vibrant, and innovative library system? RAILS is seeking nominees for six volunteer positions on its Board of Directors. One at-large seat (two-year...

The Illinois Library Association (ILA) is seeking witness slip support for fair e-book pricing. HB 5236, also known as the Digital Library Protection Act, establishes fair contract term protections for libraries purchasing digital content. Right now, publishers charge libraries nearly four times the...

The RAILS Cataloging Membership Grant is available to member libraries to support the operations and growth of shared catalog consortia, or Local Library System Automation Programs (LLSAPs). The Catalog Membership Grant aims to increase membership in RAILS LLSAPs by funding startup costs, such as...

There's still time to participate in the Libraries as Digital Navigators: Library Listening & Learning Circles! We want to learn from library staff about the real challenges, barriers, and assets in your communities so we can best support your work helping residents access devices, reliable internet...

Due to sustainability, efficiency, and safety reasons, the Consortium for Academic & Research Libraries in Illinois (CARLI), the Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS), and the Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS) are announcing a change to the Illinois Library Delivery Service (ILDS)...

Episode 2.8 of Can't Shelve This is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. When students walk into school carrying the weight of language barriers, uncertainty, and fear on their shoulders, the right welcome can mean everything. Janette and Leah are joined by Veronica Ramos (...

The RAILS Member Event scheduled for Monday, March 9, at Ela Area Public Library to visit The Forge makerspace has been postponed. We look forward to rescheduling the tour of the space and learning about the library’s creative community workspace for all ages. Watch the RAILS E-News and the RAILS...

We are pleased to announce that the $40 exhibit-only guest passes are now available through RAILS' exhibitor portal for the ALA Annual Conference, June 25–29, in Chicago. RAILS member libraries can purchase exhibit passes for library staff members to visit the exhibit hall at the conference. See...

Explore More Illinois, RAILS’ online cultural and recreational pass program for Illinois libraries, welcomes its newest attraction, the Winnetka Park District! Explore More Illinois users can receive swimming beach passes, valid for daily admission to one of Winnetka Park District's swimming beaches...

You're invited to a new series of events called Libraries as Digital Navigators: Library Listening & Learning Circles! These collaborative and welcoming events are a key part of our Human-Centered Design process to ensure the Cook County Digital Navigator Network is built with libraries. They will...