Michael Casey Recording

Thanks to everyone who attended the chat this afternoon. There were some excellent questions and discussion. Please view if you have time.

Download the chat here.

Also – what do you think of the AI summary?

Facilitator: Michael Stephens

Guest Speaker: Michael Casey, Director of Customer Experience, Gwinnett County Public Library

Topic: Innovations in Public Libraries and Emerging Technologies

Michael Stephens welcomed everyone to the session, expressing excitement to host Michael Casey once again. He noted Casey’s long-standing involvement with the Hyperlinked Library class and his role as co-author of a foundational text used in the course.

Michael Casey humorously reflected on the longevity of his involvement, noting changes like grayer hair and fewer beards. The conversation briefly turned nostalgic, with mentions of the movie Xanadu and its soundtrack.

Updates from Gwinnett County Public Library

New Library Branch: Hooper Renwick

• A new library was opened in Lawrenceville, GA, on the site of the last segregated high school in Gwinnett County.

• They preserved part of the original architecture.

• The facility includes both a library and an interactive museum curated by a county archivist.

• It’s considered a “destination library” in Georgia due to its historical significance and design.

Carnegie Grant Awarded

• The library received a $350,000 Carnegie Grant to support ESL education for parents of school-aged children.

• Funds will reimburse volunteers and provide transportation to ESL classes.

• This initiative addresses community needs by helping parents better integrate and support their children’s education.

ROI Study

• An updated Return on Investment (ROI) study is underway, the last being from 2018-2019.

• Partnering with the Carl Vinson Institute at the University of Georgia.

• The study quantifies community value based on data like Wi-Fi usage, programming, and more.

• Previously, the library demonstrated a 4-to-1 return on investment.

AI

• Focused on reducing fear and promoting understanding of AI among staff.

• Training includes prompt writing and evaluating information accuracy.

• Emphasizing AI as a tool for reference work and internal projects.

• Staff have access to Google’s Gemini through Google Workspace.

• Select staff use ChatGPT Teams for advanced capabilities like document analysis.

• Tools like NotebookLM are being explored for secure, local document interaction.

AI Meeting Device

• Testing a device called Limitless for live meeting transcription, summaries, and action items.

• Highlighted ethical concerns, particularly in sensitive settings (e.g., HR).

• Compared to historical reactions to technologies like Google Glass.

Open+ System

• Piloted in 2016, allowing extended library access with or without staff present.

• Uses security guards in evenings for safety.

• Morning hours are less concerning as staff begin arriving before the main opening.

Addressing Homelessness

• The county has mental health responders and increased shelters.

• Staff now feel more comfortable referring patrons in need of support.

Programming

• ESL classes for parents to reduce the burden on children as translators.

• Fashion design and cosplay projects using library Makerspace tools.

• Annual Teen Film Fest, judged by professionals in the local media industry.

• Career Online High School and entrepreneurial incubator programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.

• Marketing and Engagement

A dedicated marketing team promotes services.

• Major events, like visits from Rick Riordan, draw large crowds (1,500+).

• Smaller programs, though modestly attended, are still considered valuable for community impact.

Challenges and Strategies

• Budget limitations are a major hurdle, currently seeking 1% of county budget.

• Balance between core services (books, staffing, programs) and innovative projects.

• Emphasis on the importance of storytelling to showcase library impact.

Final Reflections

Michael Casey shared a personal story about learning to swim in a library, reinforcing his belief that libraries are limitless in their service potential. He emphasized aligning services with community needs and continually assessing impact.

Michael Stephens closed the session with thanks to both Casey and attendees, announcing plans to share the recording and AI-generated summary by the following morning.

Extra Links from Michael Casey:

A Favorite podcast: Intelligent Machines Podcast

• GCPL YouTube
• GCPL Customer Service Philosopy
• GCPL Jobs

Image: Michael & Michael at London Apple Store in 2008!