Garfield Swaby

Garfield Swaby is the Vice President of Information Technology at The New York Public Library (NYPL), directing the strategy, deployment, and management of all Library technology systems and services. His responsibilities encompass cybersecurity, networking, telecommunications, cloud platforms, digital repository infrastructure, and all workforce and public-facing computing systems. His tenure has focused on reinforcing traditional IT operations while driving transformative innovation, marked by achievements such as automating critical paper-based processes, integrating AI and machine learning, securing credit card industry compliance, and maturing NYPL’s cybersecurity posture.

Swaby’s leadership is particularly noted for his work on public-facing connectivity initiatives, a central theme for the AnchorNets community. Under his direction, the New York Public Library implemented the *NYPL Wireless* project, which evaluated the technical viability and logistical challenges of utilizing the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum to extend high-speed, last-mile internet access to patrons. Swaby and his team’s work earned the Hayes Innovation Prize for New York City agencies. Building on this expertise, his team also spearheaded the **Liberty Link** pilot program in partnership with the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). This initiative delivers free, building-wide Wi-Fi to approximately 2,200 households in affordable housing buildings across the Bronx and Upper Manhattan, directly addressing the digital divide by leveraging NYPL’s resources to install fiber connections and shared network infrastructure.