News & Announcements from RAILS

Now more than ever, libraries are leveraging data to support their work, whether it’s to track circulation and use, guide decision making, or advocate for resources. To do this effectively, library workers need to be experts in not only library and information science but also data and analytics...

We created Find More Illinois (FMI) to make it easier for libraries to share their items with different communities. As an interlibrary loan platform, FMI provides anyone with the ability to search multiple library catalogs in one place. For some libraries, FMI is an affordable alternative to OCLC...

John L. Hensey Elementary School was very excited when we were awarded this wonderful grant opportunity to help update our History and Social Studies book collections throughout the school. Our school collection had less diversity (only 3% of the collection) when I started a few years ago. I was...

RAILS promotes Stacy Palmisano to Executive Assistant, effective July 14, 2025. Stacy fills the position recently vacated by Emily Bailey, who retired on July 11, 2025. Stacy first joined RAILS in 2019 as an Administrative Assistant, supporting the day-to-day needs of RAILS employees and board...

RAILS Catalyst is now accepting applications for this exciting new leadership development program for library staff! We’re looking for professionals currently working in RAILS member libraries who are eager to expand their leadership responsibilities or enhance their impact in their current roles...

Background Basics Hibbard Elementary School is in the diverse Albany Park Community of Chicago. Our poverty level is 88% and most of our students are English Learners. Nine years ago, our school librarian left for another district based on cuts to many Chicago Public School libraries. Our then...

RAILS Library Resource Specialist Jody Rubel will retire on Friday, July 18, after twelve and a half years of outstanding service. Jody began her work supporting Illinois libraries over twenty years ago while serving in various roles within the Suburban Library System (SLS) and Metropolitan Library...

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...

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 ages that visit the library...

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...

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 veterans at the library and...

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 grant money and sharing how they...

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...

“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 language barriers. The project aimed to...