Alix Frazier, Collection Development Librarian
Decatur Public Library (Decatur, Ill.)
I began my library journey at DPL in February 2015, as a Library Assistant. Less than a year later, I had applied to the iSchool and to take on the newly opened Librarian position at DPL. Finding myself within the library world felt in many ways like coming home. Here not only could I connect people with books but with resources and information to help enable them in their lives.I have worked to create events and a collection that serves our local community as a whole. Libraries often stand on the frontlines in the realm of access, equity and intellectual freedoms. I would love to be a part of the IHLS board to learn more about how our libraries impact our communities and help others be better able to serve those communities.

Travis J. Givens, Library Director
Tolono Public Library District (Tolono, Ill.)
I come to the IHLS Board with a variety of library experiences. I have served as a Library Board Trustee, on the RAILS Resource Sharing Committee, and as a Union steward. During my time on these various boards and committees, I have learned how to conduct an official meeting and became efficient at drafting policies and procedures, negotiations, conflict resolution, and more. My work experience in this industry: I am the library director for Tolono Public Library District; I previously worked as the head of access services and, before that, the night circulation supervisor/collection maintenance manager, both of which were in academic libraries. My time in the field has taught me how to balance a budget, enhance my mentoring skills, foster and maintain relationships, draft policies and procedures, and manage time and projects.

Laura Naugle, Library Director
Hillsboro Area Public Library District (Hillsboro, Ill.)
I, Laura Naugle, have been a part of the library most of my life. I first served as a library media aide in high school. This position causemy love of the library to grow and I knew that I would work in libraries some day.I then went on to work part-time as a clerk in our local public library. Then I moved on to work in our school district library as a library media aide. I continued in this position for over 9 years until I finished my bachelors degree in education. From there I moved to my old high school and began the next 8 years of working as a District Librarian. It was at this library that we joined Illinois Heartland Library System. I moved all 4 of my libraries into the IHLS Polaris System. Next, I moved to my present position as a Public Library Director, at Hillsboro Area PLD. My love of reading, library materials and libraries in general has grown over the years. Therefore, I would love to become an IHLS Board of Director so that I can help other libraries to grow within the IHLS community. IHLS has helped me to grow as a librarian and I want to pass that on to as many Illinois libraries that I can. It would be an honor to become an IHLS Board of Directors member.

Amanda Crider, Public Library Board President
C.E. Brehm Memorial Public Library (Mt Vernon, Ill.)
Served on the Board of Trustees of the C.E. Brehm Memorial Public Library since 2013. Served in the role of Secretary, Vice President, and currently President. Served on various subcommittees of the Board.

Ann-Marie Harland, Public Library Trustee
McCoy Memorial Library (McLeansboro, Ill.)
My love of reading comes from both of my parents. They introduced books to me at a very early age and I gave that love of books to my sons and grandchildren. One of the highlights when spending time with my grandchildren is reading new books, and yes, sometimes the same book over and over again. Seeing the joy of imagination, learning, and understanding is what is going to carry reading on to the next generation. In my career, I have had the pleasure to have worked with children from ages; birth, to high school, to our golden senior generation. Presently I am a library technician at my local Jr./Sr. High School Library and a board member of the McCoy Memorial Library. I feel privileged to be able to encourage others to learn about the love of reading and of course, finding that one favorite book.

Clayton Kupel Held, Public Library Trustee
Vespasian Warner Public Library (Clinton, Ill.)
I am a technology consultant and founder of Deck36 Systems and Solutions, where I develop innovative, tech-driven solutions that empower communities through education, resource access, and collaboration. With a background in software development and a passion for strategic community revitalization, I believe libraries are critical hubs for learning and connection. My experience includes supporting local initiatives, fostering partnerships, and leveraging technology to create sustainable impact. I see serving on the IHLS Board of Directors as an opportunity to contribute my expertise and insights to further the System’s mission of providing excellent service and support to libraries across central and southern Illinois. My goal is to help IHLS strengthen its role as a catalyst for community growth and resilience.

Linda McDonnell, Public Library Board President
Six Mile Regional Library District (Granite City, Ill.)
As a retired elementary school teacher and reading specialist, I have always valued reading and access to information. My passion is for libraries and the possibilities they offer their communities, whether it be a school or academic population, a special interest group, or a physical community. My passion is evident in the hours I have gladly devoted to my local library board, the Six Mile Regional Library District, and the Illinois Heartland Library System. For a library is not just books. It is a collection of resources organized by professionals who can provide services and programs and help to everyone. A library advances society and protects our democracy. I am committed to the continued success of the Illinois Heartland Library System and for the best interest of the people of Illinois!I would be honored to continue to advocate for libraries and all they offer as a board member of the Illinois Heartland Library System.

Nicholas Alan Norovich, Public Library Board Treasurer
West Frankfort Public Library (West Frankfort, Ill.)
I have served on the West Frankfort Library Board for several years. In Many different capacities, From member to vice president, to now Treasurer. I have worked in banking for twenty years. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master's degree in University Administration. I have always loved libraries from an early age. I feel the knowledge from reading can take a person anywhere they want to go in life. I have always been taught to give back to my community, that is why I feel it is important to give of one's time to service.

Christine Westerlund, Public Library Board Vice President
Chatham Area Public Library District (Chatham, Ill.)
Long time library user, served as a Illinois state agency librarian for many years (no MLS, 18 graduate hours in Library Science. I haveserved the CAPLD library for many years - first as a trustee, then board vice president, board president and now, again, as board vice president. I believe that access to public libraries serves as a guiding light for all - the library welcomes and ensures that all community members are welcomed and belong. Exploration, learning, engaging are all vital elements in community - public libraries offer it all.