Member Spotlight - Camille Rose
February 10, 2025
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This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Camille Rose! As the Assistant Director of Library Engagement at Kankakee Public Library, Camille is actively involved in the Illinois library community, serving on the ILA Awards Committee, the ILA 2025 Conference Program Committee, and the ILA Nominating Committee.
We asked Camille to answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to learn more about Camille.
How did you get into libraries?
Libraries have been a part of my life since childhood. The hours spent in my small-town library with my brothers were a sign of what I would become: a "library kid." Getting older, married, and starting a family, it felt natural to make the library a part of their lives. A call from my library friend Mary Costanza encouraged me to apply for a part-time job in the reference department, as my kids were all in school was my first step working in a library, and I haven't looked back since. It's been many years, from a part-time reference assistant, teen coordinator, youth services supervisor, and now an assistant director this library journey has been and still is an adventure.
Best advice you've received since starting your career in libraries?
The best advice I've been given since starting my career in libraries is to genuinely want to be there and have a passion for libraries. This isn't just a job; it's a calling to serve and connect with the community through the world of books and knowledge.
If you're new to working in libraries, I'd offer the same advice that was once shared with me: embrace the love for libraries and their service to the community. This passion will fuel your dedication and make every day rewarding. Remember, libraries are more than just collections of books—they're vibrant community hubs that thrive on the enthusiasm and commitment of those who work within them. So, let your passion shine, and you'll find this journey both fulfilling and impactful.
When and why did you become a member of ILA?
I became a member of ILA in 2007.
How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally?
Being part of a network of librarians across the state has been incredibly valuable. Through ILA, I've found mentors and collaborators I can turn to for advice and fresh ideas when facing challenges. The professional development has kept me sharp and helped me stay accountable. From conferences to webinars, I've stayed current with library trends and brought new ideas back to benefit our patrons. Getting involved in committee work has built my leadership skills and given me a voice in shaping Illinois libraries' future.
Most importantly, ILA connects me to our larger mission. When you're deep in daily tasks, it's easy to forget the bigger picture. This community reminds me why libraries matter: we're here to strengthen our communities through access to information. That shared purpose makes me better at what I do.
What is your proudest professional achievement to date?
My greatest professional accomplishment is being a mentor in the Project Next Generation Grant Program. I've helped students transform from tech novices into confident coders, and reluctant readers into passionate writers and readers. But what makes me proudest isn't just these individual wins – it's watching some of these same students become mentors themselves. They're creating a chain reaction of learning that's changing our whole community, one student at a time.
Hardcover, paperback, e-reader, audiobook, or all?
10 years ago, paperback-Today? Nothing but an e-reader.
Favorite authors?
I have too many to name but, you know what's magical? Watching your kids fall head-over-heels in love with reading. That's exactly what happened when I introduced them to authors like Nikki Giovanni, Walter Dean Myers, Christopher Paul Curtis, Mildred Taylor and so many other amazing authors who didn't just create stories – they created readers! And let's be honest, they turned into total bookworms like me. Best. Literary. Matchmaking. Ever!
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what five books would you bring with you to pass the time until being rescued?
I would bring any five books as long as there is a happy ending.
Cat or Dog?
A Dog, but I am only saying this because my dog would find out, get mad, and run away because I wanted to say neither.
Favorite film, podcast, or television show?
If I could name just one film it would be The Marvel Phase 1 movies or any movie with Harrison Ford.
One person you would like to meet, dead or alive why?
I would have loved to meet Rich Mullins or Mandisa.
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