Mokena Library Bolsters Website Security After ‘Surge of Bot Attacks’

Mokena Community Public Library District Board of Trustees Meeting | August 2025

Article Summary
Following a recent surge in bot attacks, the Mokena Community Public Library District is taking steps to enhance its website’s security and has begun discussions to create a completely new website to better serve the community. The library’s technical staff has successfully implemented protective measures to keep the current site operational.

Library Website Security Key Points:

• Operations Manager Matt Surdel and Deputy Director Luke Surdel have been working to secure the website.

• The action was prompted by a “surge of bot attacks” targeting the library’s online presence.

• Efforts to implement protective measures have been successful.

• Looking ahead, discussions have started for building a new, more modern website.

MOKENA, Il. – The Mokena Community Public Library District has been actively defending its digital front door against a “surge of bot attacks,” according to a report from Executive Director Cathy Palmer at the August 26 board meeting.

Palmer informed the trustees that over the past several weeks, Operations Manager Matt Surdel and Deputy Director Luke Surdel have worked diligently to secure the library’s website and ensure it remains fully operational for patrons. Their efforts to implement protective measures have been successful in mitigating the attacks.

The recent security challenges have also prompted discussions about the library’s long-term digital strategy. “Looking ahead, discussions have begun about creating a new website to better meet the library’s needs,” Palmer’s report stated. This indicates a potential future project to develop a more robust and modern online platform for the Mokena community.