News from RAILS & Libraries

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...

Join the Recharge and Supervisors, Administrators & Managers (SAAM) sections of LACONI at our third annual Networking Unconference. Whether you are a shelver or an administrator, you are welcome! Want to discuss a hot topic, such as using AI in the library or advocating for a social worker in your...

The Aurora Public Library District was selected as the recipient of the Kane County Bar Association’s (KCBA) prestigious Liberty Bell Award at the 2025 KCBA Annual Dinner. This nationally recognized award is bestowed on a non-attorney individual or community organization who has promoted a better...

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...

In celebration of The Wall That Heals, coming to Antioch July 17th - July 20th, hosted by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and American Legion Post 748, the Library has a series of exhibits called "Remembering the Vietnam War: The Experience at the APLD". Walk-In, no registration required. Wednesday...

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...

Library officials are proud to announce that the Gail Borden Public Library has been awarded the highly coveted John Cotton Dana Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in the library world, for its transformative "Violins of Hope" project. This national recognition, presented annually by the...

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...

The Gail Borden Library officially cut the ribbon on its South Elgin Branch on June 21, marking the occasion with the South Elgin Branch Grand Reopening Celebration. The South Elgin branch had undergone a 10-month-long renovation and expansion designed with the community in mind. The grand opening...

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...