Library volunteer has been at it for 20 years

Jackie Hinaber

The residents of Mount Prospect are truly fortunate to have a modern, well-equipped, public library. The beautiful building at 10 South Emerson Street, the books, programs, audio-visual aids and all the other equipment and services that are housed within its walls didn't just appear one day, they are there because of the combined efforts, dedication and hard work of many people. Jackie Hinaber has volunteered as a Mount Prospect Public Library Board Trustee since May 1987, and has contributed immeasurably to its success.

There is always lots of interesting things going on, and I have enjoyed seeing the changes in technology over the years, Hinaber said. My volunteer work is really fun, and the staff is wonderful and great to work with. I encourage individuals and families to use their public library; it is the best deal in town and a great bargain.

Hinaber's duties include attending the monthly general meeting where approving bills for payment and other business matters are conducted. Board members serve on committees, and she has served on the Finance, Personnel, and the Art committee where the members are responsible for choosing the art work that is hung in the library. Her schedule always includes many additional meetings, and prior to the opening of the enlarged facility in 2004, the schedule also included meetings with architects and others responsible for the construction. She also served as a member of the North Suburban Library Board for six years.

Marilyn Genther, Executive Director, Mount Prospect Public Library, said, I have known Jackie since 1986, and she is dedicated, and passionate about libraries and what they can do for the community and its residents. She throws herself into whatever needs to be done and gives her all to any project that she is involved with.

Hinaber is also very involved at Trinity United Methodist Church where she has been a member of the choir for many years. She has appeared in several performances of the drama group, assisted at summer Bible School activities, helps out as a Sunday school teacher, was a member of the 50th Anniversary Committee, and has served as a board member.

In addition to her busy volunteer schedule, Hinaber works full-time as a kindergarten teacher in Lincolnshire. She and her husband, Paul, reside in Mount Prospect and their family includes a daughter, Sara; two sons, Steve and Scott; and four grandchildren. Her favorite activity is spending time with the family, but she also enjoys reading, and outside activities such as gardening and hiking.

I urge everyone to be active, and to get involved in some type of volunteer work, Hinaber said. Keeping your mind and body active keeps you young. The more you go through those windows of opportunity that open, the more you learn and grow.

To obtain information about the hundreds of challenging and interesting volunteer opportunities that are available in your neighborhood, call the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, (RSVP) 847-228- 1006 (mature adults 55 years of age or better) or The Volunteer Center of Northwest Suburban Chicago 847-228-1320 (all ages including corporations, families, students and groups.) Visit their website: www.volunteerinfo.net to check out the types of activities that would be of interest to you.