Resume

Librarian with over 20 years of experience working in public libraries with expertise in technology, management, and governance. Currently leading the Technology & Metadata Services department at Helen Plum Library's new, state-of-the-art building.

Work History

Technology & Metadata Services Manager, Helen Plum Library (December 2017 - present)

• Hired as the Library's IT Manager in 2017. Assumed additional responsibility for the management of the Technical Services department in 2019 and merged the two to form a single Technology & Metadata Services department in 2021.
• Manage a team of six to eight department staff, including IT, material acquisitions, cataloging, and processing positions.
• Manage a department budget of $410,487 excluding personnel expenses (FY2024).
• Serve on the Library's administration team with input on strategy and policy decisions.
• Serve as one of the Library's FOIA Officers, conducting searches for public records and preparing responses to requests in consultation with the Executive Director and legal counsel.
• Served on the construction team for the Library's new building which opened in April 2023, managing the design and implementation of all technology systems and infrastructure.

IT Manager, New Lenox Public Library (December 2007 - December 2017)

• Developed technology budget and policies, working closely with the Library Director.
• Managed the Library's networking equipment, servers, desktop PCs, and phone system.
• Served on the Library's management team with input on strategy and policy decisions.
• Served as the Library's technical liaison to PrairieCat consortium and vendors.
• Planned and conducted ILS training sessions as a member of the PrairieCat Training Committee.
• Developed and maintained the Library's Drupal-based website.
• Planned and developed the Library's Digital Media Lab.

IT Manager / various positions, Manhattan-Elwood Public Library (July 2002 - May 2013)

• Managed the Library's networking equipment, servers, and desktop PCs.
• Developed and maintained Library's website and WordPress blogs.
• Worked in Youth Services, Circulation, Reference, and Technical Services.
• Managed all interlibrary loan transactions.

Elected Offices

Board of Directors, Reaching Across Illinois Library System (2020 - present)

• Elected by System members to a 3-year term in 2020, re-elected in 2023.
• Elected by fellow Board members as Vice President from 2021-2022.
• Elected by fellow Board members as President from 2022-2023, re-elected 2023-2024.
• Lead the search committee for a new Executive Director in 2023.

Board of Trustees, New Lenox Public Library District (2019 - present)

• Elected by District residents to a 6-year term beginning in 2019.
• Elected by fellow Board members as Vice President from 2021-2023.
• Elected by fellow Board members as President from 2023-2025.
• Served as Co-Chair of the "Vote Yes" committee for a successful operating rate increase referendum, securing an additional $1,000,000 of sustainable, annual funding for the Library.
• Successfully passed a fine-free policy for most Library material in 2021.

Education

Master of Library and Information Science, San Jose State University (December 2017)

• ASIS&T Student Chapter Executive Committee

Bachelor of Science, Computer Information Systems, DeVry University (March 2008)

• Concentration in Web Development & Administration
• Dean's Scholarship recipient
• Dean's Honor List for all eight consecutive terms
• Graduated summa cum laude

Licenses & Certifications

• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Notary Public, State of Illinois (Commission #812836)
• FCC Amateur Radio License, Technician Class (Call Sign KC9RWY)

Professional Memberships

• American Library Association
• Public Library Association
• Illinois Library Association
• American Association of Notaries

Volunteer Work

Advisory Board, LACONI Technical Services Section (2023 - present)

The LACONI Technical Services Section was created in 1991 and the continued goal is to provide Technical Services Librarians, (and other interested persons), opportunities for continuing education, professional development, and networking with their colleagues.

Joined the Advisory Board in 2023.

Steering Committee, Wisconsin/Illinois Innovative Users Group (2022 - present)

The mission of the Wisconsin/Illinois Innovative Users Group (WILIUG) is to facilitate communication and to help create learning opportunities, both online and in-person, for Innovative libraries in the area. The group exists to connect area staff working with the Innovative system so that they may share their experiences, frustrations, ideas and training materials. To this end, the group hopes to help staff develop professionally and to make the best possible use of Innovative products.

Served as the Steering Committee's Chair-Elect from 2022-2023 and Chair from 2023-present.

Habitat Management, Forest Preserve District of Will County (August 2022 - present)

Work with Forest Preserve District staff and volunteers to maintain and restore preserves throughout Will County, primarily focusing on brush control and removal of invasive plants to maintain healthy and sustainable habitats for native plants and animals.

Emergency Services & Disaster Agency, Village of New Lenox (June 2010 - July 2021)

Provided support services for first responders during natural disasters, fire calls, vehicle accidents, and pre-planned community events. Trained in incident management, traffic control, security, weather spotting, radio communications, first aid, and CPR/AED use.

Served in progressively responsible leadership positions in the department over 10 years including Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain.