La Grange Library Sued For Defamation

LA GRANGE, IL — The La Grange Public Library's executive director defamed a former employee by falsely accusing her of making a racially derogatory remark, according to a recently filed lawsuit. The employee was later fired.

Late last month, Joyce Slabich, a member services clerk for the library for 13 years, sued the library and the executive director, Charity Gallardo, in Cook County Circuit Court.

According to the lawsuit, Gallardo in October 2019 falsely stated to the library board in the presence of Slabich's colleagues that Slabich had made a racially discriminatory comment and had violated the library's harassment and discrimination policies.

The lawsuit said Slabich provided information to Gallardo confirming she had not violated policies.

"Ms. Slabich assured Ms. Gallardo the meaning of the statement she had made," the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit does not say what the statement was.

As a result of Gallardo's statements, Slabich was abruptly terminated and her reputation was tarnished, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit said Slabich received positive performance reviews every year and merit-based pay raises. It also said she had no history of disciplinary actions.

In an email, Gallardo told La Grange Patch she would not comment on the litigation on the advice of the library's lawyer. She has been the executive director for more than two years.

The lawsuit said the false statements caused Slabich pain and suffering because of humiliation and emotional distress.

Slabich is seeking unspecified compensatory damages. She is represented by Chicago lawyer Ruth Major, who specializes in employment law.