The Board of Trustees of the Park Ridge Public Library (PRPL) has voted to contract with Bradbury Miller Associates, an executive search firm specializing in searches for libraries, to lead the search for its next director. The trustees also voted to approve a contract with Angela Berger, who retired in May 2019 as the Library’s business manager, to serve as interim director. Berger served as business manager for 10 years prior to retiring.

The votes were taken in a special meeting held Friday, December 18, 2020.

Heidi Smith, current director of the PRPL, has accepted a position as director of the Highland Park Public Library. She submitted her resignation on November 12; her last day with the Park Ridge Library is December 23, 2020.

“We are looking forward to working with Bradbury Miller, a firm that has completed more than 200 national executive searches in the library field,” said Lauren Rapisand, president of the Library Board of Trustees. “Their specialized knowledge of libraries, access to library leadership and understanding of the needs of a library made them stand out.” 

Rapisand added that the Board couldn’t be happier that Angela Berger has agreed to assist the library as interim director. “Ms. Berger is familiar with our staff, policies, and operations so we feel the library is in good hands until we find a replacement for Director Smith,” she said. “We couldn’t be prouder of the leadership team at the library and know that, along with Berger, service will remain at the highest level during this time.”

Bradbury Miller Associates will begin their search effective immediately. Berger will begin serving as interim director on Monday, December 21, and will work with Director Smith for a smooth transition until a permanent replacement can be found.