Mike Driskell

Mike Driskell serves as the Executive Director of the Arlington Heights Memorial Library and has been a proud resident of Arlington Heights for nearly 20 years. He previously served on the board of directors for the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce and currently holds the position of President-Elect on the board of the Rotary Club of Arlington Heights.

In his role at the library, Driskell and his team collaborate closely with local organizations, businesses and residents to foster a community centered on growth, learning, reading and entertainment. Driskell holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from Elmhurst University and a Master of Library and Information Science from Dominican University. Outside of work, he enjoys working on cars and spending time with his wife, his two teenage stepchildren and their household of pets—including three cats and two dogs.


The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
By Patrick Lencioni

This is an excellent leadership book that dissects the individual characters in a team and identifies what they bring or don't bring to the table. I have gotten great insight from this book on developing and managing a team.


Prodigal Genius: The Life of Nikola Tesla
By John Joseph O'Neill

Nikola Tesla has been a superhero to me for many years. I have studied his life and collected his works and notes. He was a truly incredible human, and as someone who always had an affinity for invention and innovation, his vision and mind are awe-inspiring and motivational to me.


The Matrix
Film, 1999

Like many others, I left this movie with a multitude of questions and scenarios swirling in my mind. It was incredibly thought-provoking, prompting me to reconsider many aspects of everyday life.


The Art of War
By Sun Tzu

This intriguing ancient text focuses on strategy and offers valuable insights for leadership and strategic thinking. I found it particularly influential in shaping long-term strategy and planning. Although the book primarily addresses literal war strategy and how to outmaneuver adversaries, its principles have compelling parallels to management, leadership and strategic planning in business and administration.