Joliet Public Library pays tribute to legacy of children’s librarian Mike Rank

As the year comes to a close at the Joliet Public Library, I find myself looking back on the journey we’ve shared. The holiday season is always filled with traditions like our annual Giving Tree, which supports a local nonprofit – this year, the Will County Humane Society.

We’ve also delighted in seasonal programs filled with gingerbread creations, visits from Santa Claus and, for the first time, our large tree outside the downtown location serves as the city of Joliet’s official Christmas tree.

And then there are the kids. Excited and full of energy, buzzing from hot chocolate and eager to take home bags of books for their winter break. It’s my favorite time of the year to work in the library.

But this year is different. In October, we experienced the loss of one of our own, with the passing of librarian Mike Rank. His absence is profoundly felt, not only by us, his colleagues, but by his family, friends, and the community he served.

Mike worked as a children’s librarian at our downtown branch for seven years. He had a unique gift for connecting with kids and teens, often through his humor. His programs always stood out – quirky and imaginative – featuring everything from special effects makeup to messy, hands-on slime projects. As the person responsible for designing our program flyers, I could always tell when a program had Mike’s signature touch.

He was not only a talented librarian but also a skilled writer and graphic designer. One summer, he transformed the Youth Services play area into a whimsical castle for our annual reading program. Halloween was another of his favorite times, and he took joy in decorating the department in what he called “spoopy” style, a blend of spooky and cute.

Like most librarians, Mike had a passion for books, especially graphic novels. He was always eager to share that enthusiasm with young readers, encouraging them with the line “it doesn’t matter what you’re reading, so long as you’re reading.”

Mike’s impact on the library is immeasurable. He made us laugh, inspired creativity and championed the joy of reading for all. As we move forward, we carry his legacy with us in every book we recommend, every child we make laugh and every moment we create for our patrons.

Thank you, Mike, for all you’ve given to us and to Joliet Public Library. You are deeply missed, fondly remembered and forever part of our story. We’ll keep reading, always.

To learn more about the Joliet Public Library, visit jolietlibrary.org or call 815-846-3124.

• Mallory Hewlett is the communications manager for the Joliet Public Library.