New Lenox Library Reports Record 3D Print Requests and Surging Student Engagement

New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees Meeting | March 16, 2026

Article Summary:
The New Lenox Public Library District reported record-breaking usage in its digital maker space alongside massive student engagement during recent school outreach visits. The Youth Services department also announced a leadership transition as its Outreach Coordinator departs for a managerial role in Bourbonnais.

Library Departmental Updates Key Points:

• 3D Printing Boom: The Studio reported its largest-ever volume of 3D print requests in a single month, completing 132 individual orders.

• Student Outreach: Adult & Teen Services connected with hundreds of local students, facilitating over 500 virtual visits and hundreds of in-person interactions at Liberty Junior High.

• Staff Departure: Youth Services Outreach Coordinator Liz Yolich-LaMore is leaving the library to become the Youth Services Manager at the Bourbonnais Library.

• State Legislation: Board President Alex Vancina urged Trustees to support House Bill 5236, which aims to ensure fair acquisition terms for taxpayer-funded digital collections.

The New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees on Monday, March 16, 2026, reviewed a series of highly successful departmental reports showcasing record-breaking technological engagement and extensive community outreach.

Studio Manager John Morgan reported that the library’s maker space experienced an unprecedented surge in demand for its manufacturing services. The department processed 132 individual 3D print requests—the highest volume ever recorded in a single month. The Studio also expanded its programming by introducing a new “No Sew” craft line and bringing its new laser engraver to a highly popular outreach event at Spencer Crossing.

The library’s Adult & Teen Services (ATS) department also reported massive engagement numbers stemming from active school outreach. ATS Manager Monica Waligorski noted that on February 26, the department provided a virtual presentation on library resources that was viewed by 565 students at Liberty Junior High. The following day, library staff visited the school in person, interacting directly with 321 students.

While celebrating these outreach successes, the library is also preparing for a notable staff transition. Youth Services Manager Alissa Raschke-Janchenko announced that Youth Services Outreach Coordinator Liz Yolich-LaMore will be leaving New Lenox. Yolich-LaMore has accepted a promotion to serve as the Youth Services Manager at the Bourbonnais Library, with her last day scheduled for March 20.

During the meeting’s closing comments, Board President Alex Vancina shifted focus to state-level advocacy. Vancina spoke to the Board about House Bill 5236, a piece of pending legislation designed to ensure fair acquisition terms for libraries purchasing digital content, ensuring that “taxpayer investments build lasting collections.” He strongly encouraged the Trustees to visit the ILGA.gov website and submit a witness slip in support of the bill.