Palatine Library Board of Trustees is excited to appoint Melissa Gardner as the Executive Director of the Library, effective July 8, 2024.
Gardner has worked in libraries for over 20 years and has served as assistant director of the Library for the past nine years. During this time, she was part of the team that helped to pass 2019’s operating increase referendum with 64% approval, oversaw technology updates and the creation of the brand-new makerspace as part of the 20202022 renovation project, and expanded the Library’s community outreach to local organizations such as Palatine Rotary where she currently serves as the organization’s president.
“We feel confident, based on her experience, that she's the best person for the job. In Melissa's time as the Library's assistant director, she has assisted in, overseen, and spearheaded major systems and programs benefitting the community and staff,” says Library Board president, Debby Brauer.
Before her role as assistant director of Palatine Library, she was the executive director of the Broadview Public Library District for nearly four years. She also served as president of the Illinois Library Association from 2016 to 2019 where she advocated for Illinois libraries on a state and national level. She holds a master’s degree in library and information science from Dominican University.
Her passion for libraries and public service continues as she prepares to embark on this new journey as executive director.
“I am excited to continue to serve our communities as executive director. We have an exciting future ahead of us as we celebrate our 100th anniversary and begin the work of our new strategic plan,” Gardner says.
The vision of Palatine Public Library District is to inspire connection, curiosity, and joy. The District serves approximately 90,000 residents predominantly within the communities of Palatine and Hoffman Estates.
