An exciting new chapter will begin Monday, June 12, when the Batavia Public Library welcomes its new executive director.
Josephine “Jo” Tucci comes to Batavia from the Lincolnwood Public Library District, where she has served as director since September 2019. Tucci’s first day will be Monday, June 12.
The Batavia Board of Trustees selected Tucci after a months-long search effort, assisted by the Vernon Hills-based executive recruiting firm of John Keister & Associates.
“Josephine Tucci is passionate about libraries, community, and the intersections between libraries and community,” said Daniel Russo, president of the Batavia Board of Library Trustees. “The trustees are eager to work with Jo in building on the Library’s strengths and exploring additional ways to enhance services for the public.”
After nearly 18½ years at the Library, executive director George H. Scheetz will retire from this position Friday, June 9.
The Library is a vital resource for the community, offering a wide range of programs and services for all ages. Tucci’s extensive experience and leadership skills will be an asset in continuing to provide exceptional Library services and programs to the community.
Previously, Tucci was a librarian with the Berwyn Public Library, where she served in various managerial roles, including in reference services, outreach services, and teen services.
“Batavia Public Library has an impressive and comprehensive collection, a beautiful, inviting space, and wonderful staff who are the heart and soul of the Library,” Tucci said. “I am so impressed with the Board — its support and vision for the Library shows that they understand and appreciate the value of public libraries in communities.”
Libraries provide important opportunities for civic engagement, she said, and Tucci is excited to hear from patrons, staff members, and community members on their visions for the Library.
“I really look forward to getting to know the staff and community better in the coming months. It is always interesting to see how things work behind the scenes and what types of materials and services are most popular with patrons. As we create a new strategic plan for the Library, we will discover new and innovative ways the Library can evolve and grow and best serve Batavia.”
Tucci is the mother of four: three sons, Charlie, Hank and Sam, all 23, and one daughter, Madeline, 19. She was born in Peoria and grew up in Glen Ellyn. Tucci and her partner, John Winans, plan to relocate to Kane County.
“Batavia is such a bustling and vibrant community and I can’t wait to explore its neighborhoods, shops, and local businesses,” Tucci said. “Batavia Public Library provides such a wonderful and inclusive space for residents to come together and learn, create, reflect, and connect with each other. There is something for everyone at Batavia Public Library so come join the fun.”
Visit the Library’s website at BataviaPublicLibrary.org to begin exploring. The Library is at 10 S. Batavia Avenue.
The Batavia Public Library is one of the oldest public libraries in the Fox Valley and traces its beginnings to the 1860s when it was a library association. The Batavia Public Library District was formed in 1975. The mission of the Batavia Public Library is to provide and ensure access to materials and services to meet the lifelong learning needs of residents and organizations, as well as to create a welcoming place to gather, exchange ideas, and participate in cultural events.
—Batavia Public Library