Member Spotlight - Wendy Roe-Chapman

July 14, 2025

This week's ILA member spotlight shines on Wendy Roe-Chapman. Wendy is a youth services associate at the Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library and is the past chair of the Reaching Forward North Committee. 

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

A little background on Wendy

My name is Wendy Roe-Chapman and my early years were spent traveling to various Air Force bases throughout the United States and Europe. From an early age, my parents instilled a love of reading in me and my siblings by regularly taking us to base libraries or local town libraries during our time living in England. They understood the intrinsic value of reading and most years we would find Family Circus books in our Easter baskets. In our house the printed word in any format was held in high regard. It seemed only fitting I would marry a librarian. We have books in every room of our house and our tastes are as different and diverse as we are. My husband is my greatest supporter in all my professional endeavors and we both enjoy the benefits of traveling to each other's conferences. 
When I'm not working, I enjoy scouring thrift shops and estate sales with my husband looking for the next great find we can sell in our eBay store. Come spring, I plan and plant my vegetable garden, though I don't often enjoy the fruits of my labor. Thankfully, my husband and friends are more than happy to eat what is harvested.

How did you get your start in libraries?

I began my library life as a page at the Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library way back in 1987. I left the library in 1999 but returned the following year and was offered a full-time position in 2001. For a few years, I worked simultaneously at a special education cooperative enhancing many skills that I was able to incorporate into my current role as a Youth Services Associate.

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

Set boundaries for work life. Incorporate self-care practices into your personal life. 

Any advice to newcomers working in libraries? 

Ask for help. Do not be afraid to present new ideas or try new things. Become an advocate for yourself, your patrons, your library, and community. Join library groups and network. Believe in yourself and your abilities.

When and why did you become a member of ILA?

I began my ILA membership in 2005. I wanted to have access to library updates, connections to other library professionals, and the opportunity to be part of an organization that fights for libraries and library staff.

How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally? 

Membership has enabled me to meet so many dedicated and gifted library workers. The association helped me grow professionally when I was awarded a scholarship to attend an On the Frontlines Statewide Library Practitioners Conference and then inviting me to serve on the Reaching Forward North Committee. Being a member has given me the support and impetus to present at conferences hosted by ILA. These experiences have allowed me to extend my professional network and love of library service.

What is your proudest professional achievement to date?

Chairing the 2025 Reaching Forward North Conference is thus far the highlight of my professional career. Guiding a committee of such hardworking and dedicated library colleagues was humbling and inspiring. I am looking (reaching) forward towards my next endeavor with great anticipation. 

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

ALL! I love the feel and smell od books, the convenience of an e-reader, and the luxury of an audiobook to keep me company during my daily commute.

Favorite authors?

Agatha Christie, Jane Austen, Alex Gino, Jaqueline Woodson, Katie Fforde, Dorothy Gilman, Nancy Atherton, Jacqueline Winsoeare, Fern Micahels, Richard Peck, Ann B. Ross... just to name a few!

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

  • Survive on a Desert Island by Patrick Perish
  • The Tuesday Club Murders: A Miss Marple Mystery by Agatha Christie
  • Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
  • Hardacre by C. L. Skelton
  • Here Lies the Librarian by Richard Peck

Cat or Dog?

Cat as I've always had a cat in my life. Though I do love and appreciate dogs as well. I also have a love for guinea pigs.

Favorite film, podcast, or television show? 

I don't think I could choose just one. I do enjoy medical dramas and just about any English mystery produced. Though I believe I'll watch anything with Jason Statham or Jason Momoa. 

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

I would have to choose between my grandads. They both died years before my parents met and I have so many questions.

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