We are proud to highlight our members who commit their time and resources to helping Wisconsin libraries and librarians thrive through their work with the Wisconsin Library Association. Each month, we will be sharing their stories and hope you will be inspired to learn more about our programs or get involved!
Fill out the Lead with WLA form and be connected with other change agents, leaders, and committees that can use what you have to offer.
Len Chylack | October 2024
 For which library, institution, or organization are you currently employed? If you are retired, what was your former organization?
I volunteer at the National Brewery Museum™ Library in Potosi, Wisconsin. The library is free and open to the public but privately funded and relies on volunteers from the American Breweriana Association, as it operates without paid staff. For more information on the National Brewery Museum™ Library, please refer to the Winter 2022-23 newsletter of the Association of Wisconsin Special Librarians (AWSL).
How many year(s) have you been a member of Wisconsin Library Association?
19 years
What has been your favorite or most impactful function or event of WLA?
I reside in Pennsylvania and contribute to the library remotely. I visit the library three to four times a year, primarily to network to gather research material. However, living in Pennsylvania makes it challenging for me to attend WLA functions or events.
How has being a member of WLA impacted you or your career?
While I have not received formal training or pursued a career as a librarian, I have been fortunate to receive continued guidance from Jennifer Bernetzke. Jennifer currently serves as a consultant for the Southwest Wisconsin Library System and previously held the position of director at the Schreiner Memorial Library in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Her expert advice on library operations has significantly enhanced the efficiency of our library, and I am truly grateful for her many years of ongoing support. Additionally, Matha Bauer, the current director of the Schreiner Memorial Library, is assisting us in acquiring new research materials for the library, all made possible thanks to my membership in the WLA.
Do you have a library role model (in Wisconsin or elsewhere) that has provided you with inspiration or guidance? Please share a little bit about it.
I have always been a history geek. Throughout my high school years, the Conshohocken Public Library in Pennsylvania had an amazing small-town librarian, Helen Hughes. Ms. Hughes dedicated a significant amount of her time to nurturing my passion for history.
Do you have any advice for new WLA members?
I encourage you to take advantage of WLA’s extensive resources, as I have, and share what you have learned with other members by actively participating in WLA activities, which, unfortunately, I have not been able to do.
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