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After an internship at the Minneapolis Public Library during my senior year at Carlton College I decided that I’d found my career path and I headed straight into the School of Information at University of Michigan. My grandfather was a librarian and my mom was enrolled in a library program while I was in graduate school (she beat me to graduation by one semester!) Fun fact, the name of the graduate school changed while I was at Michigan so I have two diplomas, one that says Master of Information and one that says Master of Information and Library Studies. I was lucky enough to be hired as an adult services librarian at the Skokie Public Library right after graduation and have been there every since in a variety of roles: assistant coordinator of information services, special projects coordinator, manger of access services, and have been in my current role of deputy director since 2016. After two decades of working in and overseeing public services I now oversee operations including access, building services, IT, safety, and our web and data administrator. When I’m not at the library I enjoy spending time with my husband of almost thirty years and three children (two in college and one in high school) and participating in adult gymnastics.

Why I wanted to serve on the PLA Board

When I was less than two years into my professional career my library sent me to a PLA conference and I was hooked. Through the years I’ve attended a number of conferences, taken advantage of online training opportunities, participated in the PLA Leadership Academy, and served on a number of PLA committees. I really believe in the work that PLA does to support professional development, to advocate for public libraries, and to help public libraries respond to changing community needs. I have gained so much from PLA and I want to give back to the profession by supporting PLA’s work as a board member.

My vision for the future of public libraries

My vision for public libraries is that they remain vital components of vibrant communities, welcoming and providing resources and services to everyone, and fostering connections between community members.

My favorite book

I don’t think I can choose just one! I have always loved mysteries (ask me about my collection of vintage Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden books) and also enjoy historical fiction.

Somewhere I love to frequent in my community

I am lucky enough to live close to Lake Michigan and really enjoy taking walks in the nearby lakefront park.

Photo: Laura McGrath and her family on vacation in England last winter. When the whole family is together we love to travel!