Member Spotlight - Melissa Gardner

February 6, 2023

This week's member spotlight is on Melissa Gardner. Melissa is the assistant director of the Palatine Library District and served as president of ILA in 2017. We asked Melissa to tell us a little about herself and answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to find out more about Melissa. 

A little background on Melissa

I am the Assistant Director at the Palatine Library District; I have been here for seven years. Before this, I was a library director and I have over 20 years of experience managing and working in all facets of public libraries. I find work in libraries to be fulfilling, because of the impact we make.

In addition to working at the library, I am a mother of three. I volunteer my time with BSA Scouts, Almost Home Foundation, Rotary, and VIP Service Dogs. My kids say my hobbies are chores and homework but I like being outdoors, spending time with animals, visiting museums, and creating things.

How did you get your start in libraries?

My first library job was at the Normal Public Library, and I started working in the youth department there in high school. I continued throughout my undergrad and was lucky enough to have it be my work-study job.

Best advice you've received since starting your career in libraries?

I think the best advice I have received is to make connections. Library land is small and you never know when you are going to get to work on a great project with someone you met only once before.

Any advice to newcomers working in libraries?

If you have the opportunity for a new experience or to try out a skill, take it. I have learned so much from my different library experiences and am still learning today

When and why did you become a member of ILA?

I became a member when I enrolled in library school; at the time, I just thought it was the right thing to do, turns out it was.

How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally? 

I have been able to make connections, gain presentation and committee experience, and helped influence the profession.

What is your proudest professional achievement to date?

Three things come to mind, ILA presidency, the 3 successful referendums I worked on, and being a part of my staff accomplishing their professional goals.

Hardcover, paperback, e-reader, audiobook, or all?

Audiobooks seem to be the only thing I have time for, I get a lot of reading done in the car or cleaning.

Favorite author?

This question is just impossible to answer, but here are some names that come to mind: Alan Bradley, Alexander McCall Smith, Lisa Kleypas, Tessa Dare, Julia Quinn, and Beverly Jenkins.

If you were stuck on a deserted island, what five books would you bring with you to pass the time until being rescued?

I'm currently reading a book on wilderness survival, which seems like a good one to bring. I'd also bring The Rowan by Anne McCaffrey, which was one of the first grown-up books I read as a young adult and I still get wrapped up in the story every time I read it. I think the last books should be poetry, songs or nursery rhymes, something short to read before sleeping or to memorize and say/sing while working.

Cat or Dog?

All the animals. I currently have seven pets, which include three dogs, two cats, two guinea pigs, and a Bearded Dragon. For five years, I volunteered at the Miller Park Zoo, and it was almost a career for me.

Favorite film, podcast, or television show?

I can't get enough of Netflix's new Wednesday series; I wish I could binge 12 more seasons of it. Instead, I'm stuck watching TikTok videos made by fans. I love TV and I will watch as much of it as I can.

One person you would like to meet, dead or alive why?

I'd love to meet my great-grandparents. I think it would be interesting to learn more about my family history from them.

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