Adoley Jordan, who serves as the Chief Advancement Officer for One Family Illinois, has always been a Library lover. Raised on the southside of Chicago, she grew up visiting her neighborhood branch and now shares that same love of reading and discovery with her daughter.
To deepen her longtime connection to libraries, Adoley joined the Chicago Public Library Foundation Associate Board in 2022, where she served as Development Chair. Now, as she steps into the role of Associate Board President, she’s energized to lead the board to new heights and help advance CPLF’s mission of making more possible in Chicago’s libraries.
From her favorite book to her earliest library memory, we spoke with Adoley about her journey—and what she’s most excited about in her new role as Associate Board President.
What’s been your favorite part of serving on the Associate Board?
It is such a joy to be in the room and connected with other individuals that have the same love for the Chicago Public Library. You can feel the energy and excitement we all have for CPL. We all have a personal connection to libraries and it’s great to share it with others.
We’re also all book lovers and do a book exchange every year and talk about our current favorite book.
What are some new things that you want to try as President of the Associate Board?
I really want to strengthen our connection to the community through the Library’s many community events.
Chicago Public Library offers a lot to our city through various community events. These events are fun, educational and great opportunities for community engagement. Our attendance would be beneficial as we continue to educate and spread word about the work of the foundation and the Library.
Why is CPL special to you and your family?
My love for reading started with Chicago Public Library. When I was little, my parents would take me to the Beverly Branch every Sunday. That love and passion for the library has stayed with me and now I am able to share that with my daughter. Just the other day we had a playdate with some friends at a local branch.
Why is supporting Chicago Public Library important right now?
There’s been attacks on our public systems and institutions. It’s important for us to support these institutions that are there for all constituents in the city. Literacy is very important to me and now more than ever, it is critical that we continue to support critical literacy programs.
OK, now onto Night in the Stacks. Why are you excited about Night in the Stacks this year?
Night in the Stacks is always one of my favorite fundraising events to attend in the city. I’m excited because we’ll be celebrating 40 years of the Library Foundation – a monumental moment. The theme [’80s glam] is going to be fun as well, but I’m really excited for people to see the impact the Foundation has made for the last four decades.
What makes Night in the Stacks different from other events in Chicago?
I think it’s the way in which you see every Chicagoan represented. As someone who works in fundraising, I go to many fundraisers
Night in the Stacks (and the Library Foundation Awards) are events where you see a wide range of folks from all walks of life who are united by their love of libraries. It’s really a representation of the best of the city.
Lastly, what’s your favorite book?
My favorite book of all time is Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man. It’s a powerful book. A little bit of a tough read but it’s my favorite because it’s one that has really stayed with me throughout my life. Another favorite is Love in the Time of Cholera.
We look forward to seeing all the Associate Board accomplishes under Adoley’s leadership! See the full list of our Associate Board members here—and learn more about Night in the Stacks here.
