We are thrilled to share that, starting June 3rd, Jennifer Chamberlain will be WiLS’ new Executive Director!
Jennifer was selected by WiLS staff and board from a field of more than 100 impressive candidates for her diverse experience in Wisconsin academic and public libraries as well as her demonstrated ability to lead through change, deliver exceptional service, and build strong relationships along the way. Jennifer’s career path, from her start as library director at a small, rural library to her role as Interim Director of the Monarch library system, shows her enthusiasm and deep caring for Wisconsin libraries and leadership.
Prior to joining us at WiLS, Jennifer was Executive Director of Libraries for UW Colleges where she oversaw the operations of 14 campus libraries. While there, Jennifer responded to UW Colleges consolidation efforts by reimagining the institution-wide consolidated library budget, reallocating resources, and redesigning workflows to have the greatest impact on student success.
For the last year, Jennifer has served as the Interim Director of Monarch Library System where she managed a four-county library system composed of an eleven staff member team that provides services to 32 member libraries. At Monarch, Jennifer prioritized building and fostering relationships with system and member library staff, library boards, community officials, library colleagues throughout the state, and members of the communities the libraries serve.
Jennifer holds a BA. in English from Lawrence University in Appleton and an MA in Library and Information Science from UW-Milwaukee.
We are very excited to work with Jennifer and see how WiLS and the library community will grow and evolve under her leadership.
Welcome, Jennifer!