Member Spotlight - Maggie Thomann

April 15, 2024

This week's member spotlight is on Maggie Thomann. Maggie is the Adult Department Director at the Glen Ellyn Public Library. She currently serves on the ILA Awards Committee and has also served on the ILA Conference Program Committee, the iREAD Committee, and the Young Adult Services Forum (YASF).

We asked Maggie to answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to find out more about Maggie. 

How did you get your start in libraries?

My first job out of college was at a children’s magazine and book publisher. I enjoyed editing manuscripts and putting together issues but found the work solitary and craved more interaction with people.

I had the opportunity to work in several libraries and quickly realized my passion was connecting readers with books and other resources that could positively affect their lives. I pursued my MLIS, and the rest is history!

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

One piece of advice that has stuck with me is not to be shy about asking for opportunities. Rather than waiting to be asked, be proactive, volunteer, and reach out to see how you can get involved. Taking that approach has led to some of the most rewarding professional experiences in my career.

Any advice to newcomers working in libraries? 

Librarianship is a supportive and collaborative profession. Get to know other professionals in the field and use them as resources and sounding boards when you are working through challenges or new opportunities. Share what you know and support your colleagues in return.  

When and why did you become a member of ILA?

According to my ILA profile, I have been a member since 2006! I was fortunate that my first employer supported professional development and paid for me to become a member. Early in my career, I wanted to get connected to other professionals and attend the ILA Annual Conference. My ILA membership has continued to be a great source of learning, networking, and resources.

How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally? 

ILA membership has brought value to me professionally through continuing education, conferences, and networking. Some of the most important growth, learning, and connection opportunities have come through serving on ILA Forums and Committees. I have formed deep friendships and learned a lot.

What is your proudest professional achievement to date?

The proudest moments in my career are when library users or colleagues tell me that I have had a positive impact, and especially when I see them grow and succeed.

A recent example: I ran into a colleague at the ILA Annual Conference who had been a middle school teen advisory board member when I was a young adult librarian in my first job out of graduate school. They are now a successful librarian and doing great things professionally. It is rewarding to see them pursue a path in libraries and be successful.

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

Any and all! I usually will take whatever I can get and have multiple going at one time. I don’t ever want to be stuck without a book when I am driving, waiting somewhere, or have random downtime.  

Favorite authors?

Right now, Gabrielle Zevin comes to mind. I have been consistently amazed at her range and evolution as a writer. She is also fun to read. Also, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Peter Swanson, Liz Moore, and so many others.

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

This was very hard, so I went with the first titles that came to mind. They need to be meaty enough to be read over and over. 

  • The Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson
  • The Iliad by Homer
  • The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
  • The Bible

Cat or Dog?

Mini Schnauzers please!  

Favorite film, podcast, or television show? 

So far, nothing has been able to top The Shawshank Redemption as my favorite.

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

My maternal grandmother, Lois. She died before I was born, but I have heard so much about her and would love to have a chance to meet and get to know her. From what I know she was a gardener, crafter, baker, and a delight to be around.

iREAD Summer Reading Programs

Since 1981, iREAD provides high quality, low-cost resources and products that enable local library staff to motivate children, young adults, and adults to read.

Visit the iREAD website »