Member Spotlight - Kelly McCully

June 9, 2025

This week's ILA member spotlight shines on Kelly McCully. Kelly is the director of the Bourbonnais Public Library District, and a member of the ILA Awards Committee. 

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

A little background on Kelly

Kelly McCully is the Director of the Bourbonnais Public Library District. She obtained her Master of Arts in Teaching from Olivet Nazarene University and a Master of Library & Information Studies from the University of Alabama. She serves on the ILA Awards Committee and PrairieCat Administrative Council. She is particularly interested in professional mentorship, community outreach, strategic planning, and nonfiction collection development. Kelly loves to travel, organize book clubs, and nurture a small business as an animal Reiki practitioner.

How did you get your start in libraries?

Libraries have always been part of my educational path. I began volunteering in libraries during junior high. As an undergrad student at Illinois State University, I worked at the Milner Library. When a part-time reference assistant position became available at my local library, I jumped at the chance to work for the library at which I obtained my first library card as a child.

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

Use your cumulative life experience to shine in your current role. My sales background helps me cultivate relationships and negotiate agreements with vendors. My teaching experience allows me to feel at ease speaking in front of people and helps me develop continuing education for library staff.

Hire great people and get out of their way. Shout out to my team at BPL, which challenges, impresses, and inspires me every day!

Any advice to newcomers working in libraries? 

Advocate for yourself and your professional growth. If you have a unique talent or area of interest, see how that might align with the needs of your library or community.

If you see an initiative or platform that sparks curiosity, contact that library or library professional to learn more about it. A sincere compliment or helpful feedback can open many doors for growth and opportunities!

When and why did you become a member of ILA?

I joined ILA when I entered administration. When I started working in libraries, I had the misconception that only professional staff could contribute to state and national organizations. ILA has created many opportunities for library staff to get involved, share their experiences, and contribute at all levels.

How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally? 

ILA has provided me with a platform for professional growth and connection. Being part of the ILA Awards Committee has introduced me to other library professionals and the outstanding work that is taking place throughout the state.

The ILA Intellectual Freedom Committee provided valuable support when the Bourbonnais Public Library was experiencing fallout from a problematic program challenge. ILA staff and members of the Committee gave guidance and openly supported BPL at a potentially contentious board meeting.

What is your proudest professional achievement to date?

I am most proud of obtaining two graduate degrees while working full-time. When my son was four and sixteen, he witnessed his mom cross the stage to receive her diplomas.

As a leader, I am proudest of the active work BPL continues to do to create safe and affirming spaces, services, programs, and collections for our staff and patrons.

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

I read a variety of fiction and nonfiction on multiple platforms simultaneously. I adore a thoughtfully curated cookbook just as much as a new novel.

Favorite authors?

Alice Walker, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Yung Pueblo, Jon Krakauer, Gabor Maté, and Tieghan Girard.

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

  • The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
  • The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • The Life of Pi by Yann Martel
  • Rebecca by Daphne Du
  • Maurier, & The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker

Cat or Dog?

My German Shepherd, Mila, is my favorite dog on the planet. I appreciate all animals, large and small. In my Reiki practice, I have connected with dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, donkeys, and even a rooster! 

Favorite film, podcast, or television show? 

My favorite film is Almost Famous (The Bootleg Cut). I am enjoying the Halfway to Dead, A Midlife Spiritual Journey podcast hosted by Jen Lovell, and I am crossing my fingers tightly in hopes for another season of the Mindhunter series.

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

I would love to take a walk in the woods with the late poet, Mary Oliver.

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.

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