Grayslake Library welcomes new director
After a nationwide search, the Grayslake Area Public Library District board has selected Sara Brown to be the new library director, officials announced in a news release Wednesday.
Brown, who started work Monday, previously worked at libraries in California. She replaces Roberta Thomas, who retired in June after 24 years as director.
Brown was one of 12 candidates the library board interviewed during the monthslong search. She said she was impressed by the library's community.
"Beyond our materials and the building, a library's greatest resource is the talents and strengths of the staff, board members, volunteers, patrons, and community partners," Brown said in the news release. "I look forward to working with the team here at the Grayslake Library."
Board President Scott Landy said library officials were thrilled to welcome Brown to the library community.
"We are confident Sara will be an amazing replacement for our longtime former director," Landy said in the release. "We look forward to working with her as we continue evolving the offerings and services of the Grayslake Area Public Library."
The library board hired John Keister & Associates of Vernon Hills to conduct the director search.
Brown used to supervise 11 library branches when she was deputy county librarian in Merced County in central California. Before that, she was the city library manager at the public library in Tulare, California. She earned a Master of Library and Information Science degree from San Jose State University.
She said she applied for the job in part to return to Illinois, where she was born and raised. Brown said her focus as a librarian is about connection.
"I intend to bring a new emphasis on linking library resources with people beyond our walls - out in the community, where they live, work, and play," Brown said. "I am truly looking forward to my new role at the Grayslake Library and welcome your feedback and ideas on how we can better serve this wonderful community."
A Grayslake library district news release said there will be a welcome event for Brown in the coming weeks but the details are not yet available.