Indian Prairie Public Library
Amy Merda has a strong background in education and library services. Amy currently holds the position of Head of Programming & Outreach at Indian Prairie Public Library since October 2022. Prior to this, they were the Mid-Kids Librarian at the same library from June 2021 to November 2022.
Amy also gained valuable experience as a Youth Services Assistant at Mt. Prospect Public Library from July 2013 to June 2021. Before that, they worked as a Children's Services Associate at Naperville Public Library from July 2010 to June 2013.
In addition, Amy has experience in the education sector. Amy worked as a Substitute Teacher and Summer School Teacher at Valley View School District 365U from August 2009 to June 2013. Amy also served as a Kindergarten Teacher at the same district from August 2008 to June 2009.
Furthermore, Amy worked as a Tutor/Teacher at Huntington Learning Center in 2010 and as a Supportive Ed. Aide at Valley View School District 365U from August 2007 to June 2008.
Amy Merda completed their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Elementary Education at Benedictine University from 2003 to 2007. Amy later pursued a Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) degree at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign from 2018 to 2021.
Indian Prairie Public Library
Mission We enrich peoples’ lives by providing opportunities to explore, connect, and be inspired. Vision Lives are enriched and dreams are realized. Service Philosophy Exceptional service is our passion We are caring and friendly. We listen to the needs and interests of each individual. We develop our services with deliberate and thoughtful care. We welcome our community and are committed to making everyone’s library experience enjoyable. Strategic Plan 2019-2022 Initiatives Empowering: We empower people to fulfill their potential and cultivate their interests. Key Initiatives We care about people and cultivate relationships to connect around individual interest and their information, education, and entertainment needs. We offer interest-driven programs that spark enjoyment, participation, learning, and creativity. We curate dynamic collections that are exciting, responsive, and inclusive. We provide opportunities for our residents to discover, learn about, and use technology. We use innovative ways to reach and inform our community about all we have to offer and to share our stories of impact. Welcoming: We are a welcoming place for all and a preferred destination. Key Initiatives Our commitment to exceptional experiences for everyone guides the development of our services and assures outstanding hospitality. We continuously learn about our community's needs and interests to ensure we are inclusive. Our physical and virtual spaces are welcoming, engaging, useful, and easy to use. Connecting: We are a vital partner in a strong community and a catalyst for bringing people together. Key Initiatives We increase opportunities for people to connect and engage with each other. We develop and nurture partnerships that benefit our community. We grow our reputation as a valued community resource and partner.