Michelle Shapiro, Indian Trails Public Library, is Someone You Should Know

I first met Michelle Shapiro, Program and Special Events Coordinator at Indian Trails Public Library some 18 years ago through the local chamber of commerce. My wife Judy and I later did a presentation at Indian Trails Public Library entitled “Gift Baskets and Centerpieces”. The library asked if we would agree to be video recorded for later broadcast on cable TV. We agreed, but had to sign away all rights. We still have a copy of that video tape.

The recording played so often on cable television that my wife Judy was frequently asked by passers by: “Have we seen you on television?” Subsequently, Judy was named “Best of the Best” in the Northwest Suburban Library District for the presentation. The library no longer records presentations but I still regularly do programs there.

And Michelle continues to enjoy her position, although she carries what amounts to be a full time load on her part time schedule. She sets up programs which she oversees for both day and night presentations. Shapiro graciously tries to fill requests and desires of library members. Programs typically cover the collections of material available at Indian Trails. 

Shapiro was actually recruited for her present position after leading an evening book discussion group for some 10 years at the library. She did this so well she impressed the powers that be, or at least those who were at that time. Michelle continued performing this dual role function until three years ago, while working simultaneously in her present coordinator role. She commented about this experience and wrote me: “I really enjoyed the group. it was a great learning and teaching position.” 

Library demonstrations range from cooking classes through computer and Internet (like mine at present – LinkedIn, WordPress and social media for business and job seekers) instructions. Session topics deal with history, travel, architecture, meditation, politics, psychiatry as well as drama. The library hosts two book groups and three writing groups in addition to authors and offering musical performances. This year a business money smart week is planned as is a session on ancestry research scheduled by popular demand.  The most popular presentations, drawing the largest crowds, are entertainment, musicals as well as cooking (well, what did you expect?).

For 18 years Michelle has enjoyed seeing the happy faces of men and women while they watch her scheduled programs. Her eyes glisten when she describes how some patrons express their gratitude for the wonderful entertainment the library provides. Shapiro vividly recalled one audience member who enjoyed participating in a program by a Mae West impersonator. He stated it was a better experience than anything he had done in recent memory!

When we spoke a few days ago, Shapiro fondly recalled how joyful she felt for one performance in particular. Michelle had auditioned an elderly man suffering from brain cancer. Although even more frail at the time of his show, the man sang gallantly while accompanied by his wife. An appreciative audience loudly applauded for their brave performance.

Michelle enjoys making people happy and scheduling programs that enhance lifelong learning at the library. She is someone you should know and appreciate! I know I do.

The library is located at 355 South Schoenbeck Road in Wheeling and serves a large portion of Buffalo Grove businesses and residents, including my family and many friends as well as business associates. Visit the Indian Trails Public Library Website and check the calendar of monthly events for upcoming presentations and say hello to Michelle for me while you are there. And enjoy the programs!