Member Spotlight - Mikael Jacobsen
September 23, 2024
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This week's member spotlight is on Mikael Jacobsen, Director of the Lake Villa District Library (LVDL). Mikael has served on the ILA Conference Program and Awards Committees, and he is a current member of the Public Policy Committee.
We asked Mikael to answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to find out more about Mikael.
How did you get your start in libraries?
I’m one of the odd ducks that went to library school without first having worked in a library, though my mom was a high school librarian. I liked the idea of doing research but not having to write the papers. I liked the idea of teaching people without having to give grades. I liked the idea of learning something new while helping somebody else with a problem. My first job was at the New Lenox Public Library and I interned at Northeastern Illinois University Library.
Best advice you've received since starting your career in libraries?
Take the time to understand the community you serve.
Any advice to newcomers working in libraries?
Look to the future and course correct your career constantly. This year it may be generative AI; next year it may be landscape architecture, etc.
When and why did you become a member of ILA?
I think I've been a member of ILA since 2009. I became a member because I wanted to be part of a community of people who were passionate about learning.
How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally?
Networking has been huge. It is great to know a bunch of strong professionals that you can look to for help.
What is your proudest professional achievement to date?
Most recently, I’m proud of LVDL being the first library to apply for and receive the Open Space and Land Development Grant (OSLAD) from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. We will receive $600,000 towards our outdoor improvements (want to learn more? Link).
Hardcover, paperback, e-reader, audiobook, or all?
Hardcover and e-Audiobook, but I don’t judge.
Favorite authors?
J.R.R. Tolkien, Brandon Sanderson, Robert Jordan, Michael Lewis, Joseph Heller, etc.
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what five books would you want with you to pass the time until being rescued?
I think I’d take the opportunity to read new books or revisit some old ones that I don’t remember well:
- The Martian by Andy Weir
- Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
- A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
- Walden by Henry David Thoreau
- Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Cat or Dog?
Prefer cats but allergic, so dog.
Favorite film, podcast, or television show?
Enjoying the Plain English podcast with Derek Thompson and The Rewatchables podcast. Really enjoyed the Loki show. And for films, just take me away and don’t make me stressed or think too much.
One person you would like to meet, dead or alive why?
My maternal grandfather died when I was very young. He seems like he was an interesting person, and I would have liked to have gotten the opportunity to know him a bit. Mr. Rogers would also be wonderful to meet; imagine how good you’d feel after spending time with him.
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