Des Plaines Public Library searching for new executive director

Des Plaines Public Library officials are seeking a new administrator to lead the staff following the retirement of longtime Executive Director Jo Bonell.

Bonell’s official last day at the Ellinwood Street facility was Friday, but she was on intermittent medical leave, a library spokesperson said.

Assistant Director Laurie Papadourakis has been serving as interim executive director since October.

Bonell turned to the library industry after working as an attorney. She earned a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Illinois in 2008 and joined the Des Plaines Public Library staff that year.

Following time as a readers supervisor and head of adult services, Bonell was named the library’s executive director in 2019.

Library board President Gregory Sarlo called Bonell’s work “exemplary.” He was especially impressed by her efforts to keep the library open and expand virtual services during the pandemic.

“In that particular time, the library was so needed,” Sarlo said. “It was amazing, the job she did.”

Sarlo said he’ll miss Bonell immensely.

“And so is everyone at the library,” he said.

The library board hired Downers Grove-based HR Source to assist with a national search for Bonell’s successor, and that work is continuing. Finalists will be interviewed by the library board and meet the staff.

Library officials hope to have a new executive director in place in March.

The salary range for the next executive director will be $125,000 to $160,000 per year, plus benefits, documents indicate.

More information about the open position can be found online at dppl.org/about/jobs/executive-library-director.