The Park Ridge Public Library Board of Trustees invites the public to a Community Forum to meet its top candidate being considered to serve as Library Director.

The Forum is scheduled for Thursday, March 15 at 6:30 p.m. in the Library’s first floor meeting room.

After interviewing four candidates the week of February 26 and taking into consideration feedback from Library staff, who met with the candidates earlier in February, the Board unanimously decided to invite Heidi Smith to speak to and take questions from the community she would serve. 

Ms. Smith is currently the Assistant Director of Waukegan Public Library, where she began her library career in 2006 as manager of the Children’s Department. 

“The Board is excited to introduce Ms. Smith to Park Ridge residents and for her to hear directly the concerns and hopes they have for transitioning our beloved library to its next chapter,” said Judy Rayborn, Board Trustee and Personnel Committee Chairperson. “All nine members of the Board agreed that Ms. Smith’s library management experience, depth of knowledge and creative problem-solving skills would advance the Library’s mission and vision.”

In her interview, Ms. Smith shared with the Board her belief that ‘libraries are a tenet of democracy’ and that they can serve as the ‘pulse of the community.’ You can access Ms. Smith’s qualifications here. 

Please note that because of the Park Ridge Classic Film Series’ 7 p.m. showing of the 1933 King Kong at the Pickwick Theatre, the parking lot adjoining the Library will be busier than usual.