Student Tech Project Piloting at Cumming Library

Submitted by Joan Dudzinski

The Cumming Library will be piloting a project with three high school students from West Forsyth. The students, Sriram, Avyukt, and Nicholas, approached us to see if we would be interested in using a device and software program which they created for a technology project. They presented their idea to Holly, Ann, Adrianne, Scot, and myself about a month ago. These high school students (9th graders!) blew us all away with their level of initiative, details of their project, and sheer excitement.

The device (BMap) basically uses Bluetooth® technology to count the number of Bluetooth® connections in a given area which can be used as a way to gauge traffic. No personal information is collected in the process and the data is 100% anonymous. Once the data is collected, it is uploaded to a server where it is analyzed and provides detailed reporting on traffic patterns. They have created a polished looking website and interface which includes AI interpretations of the data (think more or less traffic before and after school lets out). Our IT department has reviewed all the specifications and the need for privacy with them, and will be assisting with installation and monitoring the program.

Although we have door counts of the number of people who enter and leave the building, we do not have a good grasp of how many people use a specific area within the library. The varied traffic patterns at the library will help allow them to further enhance their product and provide more detailed analytics. The initial pilot will place the device in several chosen locations at the Cumming Library and run for a couple months.

FCPL is thrilled to be participating in this project. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that defines what the library and the students are responsible for and the scope of the project. We may gain some insight into our traffic patterns and the students will gain experience in working with an organization and enhancing their product. This is an exciting opportunity for the library to support the community in a unique way.