Casey McCoy
Lincolnwood Public Library District – Lincolnwood, IL
Program Coordinator
A little about Casey’s job:
As the Program Coordinator I am responsible for coordinating budgeting, scheduling, and evaluating outside programs & presentations by speakers, authors, and performers. I’m also responsible for establishing relationships to broaden the range of programs offered by the library as part of the new Community Engagement Department.
1) What are some things you like about your job or about working in libraries in general?
I love working with people, whether that means working on a task with my department, scheduling and setting up performers, or helping out patrons. I have always worked in customer service and thrive off engaging with diverse populations.
2) What’s a project or committee you’re working on right now that you’re excited about?
I’m currently on my library’s Circulating Device Committee with the goal to introduce Kindles, iPads and laptops to circulation. My main role in the group is to research marketing details and how to best engage our community with the new devices. I am also learning a lot about creating library policies and the importance of having a wonderful technical services department.
3) What got you interested in libraries?
I originally applied to GSLIS with plans to focus on Community Informatics and to go into non-profit management; I actually denied any interest in working in a library! After my first semester I started to realize how community engagement and technology is actually a big part of today’s public libraries, so I began volunteering at our local library’s teen makerspace. This got me hooked and led to my first library job after graduation.
4) What is one of your favorite things about NMRT?
I love all of the resources NMRT provides. I am a new member, but have followed along with NMRT news and events for the past year. NMRT was especially helpful when attending my first ALA Annual this summer in Las Vegas, which was very intimidating for a new professional!
5) Do you have any advice for other new librarians?
Find a good balance between Libraryland and your personal life. It is very easy to say “yes” to every opportunity and feel pressured to serve on all the committees, but this is also a quick way to burnout. Personally, I vowed to leave work at work and not feel guilty about binge-watching Orange is the New Black instead of reading the newest YA book series. Burnout is still inevitable sometimes, but I will at least have other hobbies to escape to.
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