Odell Public Library is pleased to welcome new Director, Meridith Layne, who began her new position on Monday, September 23, 2019. Layne stepped into the role vacated by Lori Matlack, now in the newly-formed Public Services Director position with the City of Morrison, IL.
Serving as Coordinator for the Morrison Chamber of Commerce since 2017, she has focused on strengthening our community, through collaboration with business leaders, non-profit groups, and volunteers. Bringing these skills and experience to Odell, Layne’s goals include keeping the library relevant to the community’s needs, with diverse programming and services that meet Odell’s mission to encourage life-long learning.
“I am thrilled for this opportunity! I am looking forward to engaging with the experienced staff, eager volunteers, and dedicated Board members, who work so diligently to bring the very best services to Morrison,” said Layne.
Originally from central Illinois, Layne earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois, Springfield. The Layne family moved to Morrison in 2010. The local library made an impact on the family as a welcoming environment, one they visit often. As a lover of books, Layne has been drawn to libraries all her life. She previously worked at libraries in both Macomb, and Dixon, IL.
Odell Public Library currently serves its patrons with an in-house collection of approximately 36,000 print materials, 7000 audio books, 700 videos, and 33,300 electronic books.