Fossil Ridge Public Library District hires new director

The board of trustees of the Fossil Ridge Public Library District selected Rene Leyva as their new director during their April board meeting. Their decision comes after a nationwide search following the untimely passing last October of Richard Ashley, Fossil Ridge's previous director.

Leyva comes to Fossil Ridge from the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center in Palos Park where he served as director since 2019. Prior to McCord, Leyva was the manager for marketing and public services at the Palos Park Library. He earned his masters in library and information science from Dominican University and served as a trustee at the Frankfort Public Library District.

The board appreciated Leyva's vision for the future of Fossil Ridge and his demonstrated experience building relationships throughout the community.

The Fossil Ridge Public Library District serves the residents in and around Reed Township, including Braceville, Braidwood, Essex, Gardner, Godley and South Wilmington.

For additional information, visit the Fossil Ridge website at www.fossilridge. org.

Rene Leyva will start work as Director of the Fossil Ridge Public Library District on May 24.