Voting is underway for the 5 open seats on the IHLS Board of Directors.
Seats to be filled:
1 Academic Library Representative (3-year term)
1 Special Library Representative (3-year term)
1 School Library Representative (3-year term)
2 Public Library Trustee Representatives (3-year term each)
Please see the COVID-19 Updates & Resources page for the most recent details.
by Anna Yackle, IHLS Membership Coordinator
posted 4/6/20 4:14 PM CT
During these times of uncertainty and social distancing, certain library business must still be conducted. Board meetings are often a necessary part of advancing the library’s business, but holding a public meeting while everyone must remain six feet apart and wear face coverings may seem like a daunting task. Are there other options? Libraries are fortunate to have an abundance of guidance regarding conducting board meetings....
by Shandi Greve Penrod, IHLS Marketing Coordinator
published 4/03/2020 4:03 PM CT
You may have seen a window or two in your neighborhood covered in hearts, or perhaps you noticed a teddy bear or two peeking out of windows or sitting on porch chairs. Heart and teddy bear scavenger hunts have become popular social distancing activities both for the children and families looking for the items and for the neighbors making and displaying them. Taking part in these social distancing scavenger hunts has many positive benefits. For those creating hearts, the creativity used stimulates the mind, makes a day inside less mundane, and...
Girls Who Code has just released FREE weekly Girls Who Code at Home unplugged and online activities for 3rd-12th grade students. Learn coding from the comfort of your home!
by Anna Yackle, IHLS Membership Coordinator
posted 3/26/20 12:31 PM CT
Libraries are trusted institutions and sources of entertainment, learning, and help. Staff members pride themselves in knowing and serving their community. During this time of being ordered to “shelter in place,” how do libraries and staff continue to offer services and assistance to their users?
One way is to share resources that can entertain and inform your community via your website or Facebook account. While not everyone has a home computer, laptop, or internet, many do have phones that can access your sites.
Link to lists of resources for adults and children created by Illinois Heartland Library System staff (such as this list), the list of educational resources created by the youth services librarian from the Mahomet Public Library, and other library institutions. . . .
The Cataloging Maintenance Center (CMC) recently cataloged 10 Asian language books for the Lenhardt Library of the Chicago Botanic Garden.
IHLS has made a group purchase of the updated 2020 ILA Illinois Library Laws & Rules. This essential compilation includes all current laws and rules affecting library service in Illinois.
For a fourth consecutive year, the White House budget proposal for FY21 eliminates direct federal funding for libraries.
