Happy Retirement: Karen Danczak Lyons MLIS ’97, Evanston Library's Executive Director

Photo courtesy of Mark Kodiak Ukena / Pioneer Press

April 23, 2022



Karen Danczak Lyons MLIS ’97, Evanston Public Library’s executive director, has announced she plans to retire in June. Karen joined the Evanston library a decade ago, after spending 19 years with the Chicago Public Library system. Since then she has overseen the library’s opening of a new branch at the Robert Crown Center.



“I believe that part of being a leader is knowing when to leave and make space for what’s next,” Karen said in a statement. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together under my leadership, and I want to allow for a smooth transition to ensure our important work continues.”



Karen graduated from Loyola University in Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in 1981 and holds a master’s of library science degree from Dominican University.



Read more: Library director to retire