Director To Retire After Nearly A Decade At Downers Grove Public Library

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Julie Milavec, who has been the director of Downers Grove Public Library (DGPL) for nearly a decade, will retire on March 2.

During Milavec's tenure, the library reached such milestones as marking more than a million book checkouts and more than 430,000 library visits. In 2022, the library also earned the distinction of being named a five-star library by the Library Journal.

Before coming to DGPL, Milavec worked as the executive director for Plainfield, West Chicago and Worth Public Libraries. The Illinois Library Association (ILA) named her Librarian of the Year in 2025.

Milavec is currently nominated to become an ILA Library Luminary, which honors librarians who have "made significant contributions to Illinois libraries," according to a news release from DGPL.

“As I step into retirement, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement. Gratitude for the memories we’ve created and the lessons I’ve learned, and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead," Milavec shared in a statement.

She added, "DGPL makes a difference in people’s lives every day - whether it’s preparing our kids to be successful in school or providing a social outlet for seniors, what we do matters. Thank you for making this journey unforgettable. I look forward to the next chapter for me and for DGPL."

A public farewell reception will be held Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. during the library board of trustees meeting.

Since Dec. 2025, DGPL has been vetting more than 50 applicants to replace Milavec for the library director position and plans to announce a new director soon.