Here is a bunch of random information I've discovered over the last few months. I figured it might be interesting for someone, so I thought I'd post it all together. If you see anything that you think would be interesting to see a full post about, please leave a comment and we'll try to write about it in more detail. Overdrive Digital Library Many state libraries have digital books, audio books and movies that can be checked out electronically from a company called Overdrive. Most of the time, all you need for access is a card from a local library or your state library. The checkout process works like it does for physical books. If the library has only purchased one copy, only one … [Read more...] about Random Stuff
library
What will Last?
A trip to the local library resulted in me spending most of my time browsing for older books--particularly the ones that were published before 1930. A few days later, I was listening to a lecture on Shakespeare and was struck by the fact that much of his greatness comes from the fact that we have so many of his works fully intact. In modern society, how much of what we produce will still be around 50 or 100 years after we die? The change to magnetic media as the primary means of storing data condemns most of what we work on to a much shorter existence than the printed material of previous centuries. Websites that represent a significant amount of one's life work will disappear … [Read more...] about What will Last?
Questions? Call the NYC Library
917-275-6975. That is the number of their reference desk where people are available to answer your questions. If they can't find the answer in five minutes they will direct you to other resources that might be able to help. You can also contact them over chat or email from this page. I'd suggest adding the number to your cell phone so it is handy when the need arises. … [Read more...] about Questions? Call the NYC Library
Laptop Unfriendly Library
I went to a library today to do some research and some writing on my laptop. The internet browsing librarian informed me that I wasn't allowed to plug my computer in to the outlet. I asked why and he said it was "library policy". This wasn't an answer--he was just being redundant. I prodded a bit more and found him even less helpful--probably because I was infringing on his valuable web surfing activities. I gave up and just used my battery. Most libraries are trying to redesign themselves to attract people. I've been to some where they added rows and rows of tables with Ethernet and power jacks for people with laptops. This one seems to be concerned that patrons might actually come … [Read more...] about Laptop Unfriendly Library