On any given day at the Chicago Ridge Public Library, the creaking sound of rolling cart wheels and an enthusiastic cry of “Fresh books!” echoes through the children’s section. The voice belongs to Salimah Boufath, a youth service librarian with a passion for igniting a love of reading in young minds.
“I love seeing kids get excited about books,” Boufath, of Oak Lawn, said. “Whether they check out the new books or not, just watching them gather around, curious and eager, makes it all worth it.”
For the past decade, Boufath has been an integral part of the library’s team at 10400 S. Oxford Ave., curating collections, leading story times, and mentoring young readers. But her role goes much further beyond books. Her favorite part about working at the library is creating an environment where children and families feel welcome, engaged, and inspired.
Her journey into librarianship began with a foundation in family studies at Chicago State University, followed by a master’s in library science from Dominican University. Her academic background gave her insight into child development and the power of literacy, shaping her approach to library programming.
“I’ve always loved books, but more than that, I love seeing kids connect with stories,” Boufath said. “Helping a child find the right book, you know, the one that excites them, challenges them, or even comforts them, is the best part of my job.”
Her work at the Chicago Ridge Public Library is a blend of literature, creativity, and mentorship. She not only orders and catalogs materials but also develops engaging programs for children of all ages. From reader’s advisory to hands-on crafting sessions, Boufath ensures that the library is a hub for both learning and fun.
Libraries, Boufath believes, are much more than shelves of books. To her, they are community spaces where families can bond, children can grow, and learning is accessible to all.
“Not every child has access to a school library or the means to buy books,” she said. “Libraries offer a place where kids can explore new worlds, free of cost. It’s a safe space for learning and discovery.”
She also mentors students in Project Next Generation, a program designed to provide technology-based learning experiences for children ages 10 and up. Through PNG, Boufath helps young learners build confidence in digital literacy and research skills.
Despite the increasing popularity of screens and digital media, she sees libraries as more essential than ever.
“Kids spend so much time on devices, but when they walk into the library and pick up a book, there’s something magical about it,” she said.
Beyond her daily responsibilities, Boufath is focused on the future, both for her young patrons and the role of libraries in their lives.
“In 20 or 50 years, I know libraries will still be here, serving communities just like they do now,” she said. “Without them, we lose a vital part of our neighborhoods.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue inspiring children to read and fostering a lifelong love of books. She finds particular inspiration in the words of former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who stated: “There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. The love of books is the best of all.”
Boufath is quick to acknowledge those who have supported her journey—her parents, who encouraged her education; her husband, Michael Mackie, a fellow book lover; and her mentor, Tom Kochinski, who first introduced her to the world of library science.
For Boufath, each new book is an opportunity, each program a new adventure. And as long as there are young readers eager for stories, she’ll be there, cart in hand, ready to announce: “Fresh books!” and her fellow staff members could not be happier to have her at the library, including Chicago Ridge Public Library Director Dana Wishnick.
“Salimah is a dedicated, caring, and creative librarian respected by the community and her colleagues,” Wishnick said. “Her enthusiasm for books, reading, and serving children and their families shines through in everything she does.”
Editor’s Note: This is part of a series of stories highlighting the accomplishments of local women in honor of Women’s History Month