EDITOR'S NOTES
Apps, Maps, and Access Points
by Dick Kaser
This issue is about data and the tools that make data accessible to library users. Kelly Sitzman (Pioneer Library System) shares her experience in deploying solar benches to local parks in an effort to reach underserved communities with Wi-Fi, library apps, and free, remote access to ebooks, digital audiobooks, and streaming media collections.
Amy Affelt (director of database research worldwide at Compass Lexecon) helps you brush up on your reference desk skills by walking you through some essential government data online resources and sharing tips for turning the data into informative graphics.
Information specialist and consultant Phil Bradley shares what he’s learning about the latest plugins specifically designed to extend the capabilities of ChatGPT, along with tips for using OpenAI’s advanced data analytics to apply AI to your own datasets.
Jeff Reid and Holly Richards (Dayton Metro Library) share tips for providing patrons with free access to streaming media subscription services such as Disney+ by lending out dedicated Roku devices—and it’s all legit, secure, and controllable.
Analiza Perez-Gomez (Laredo Public Libraries) shares her experience in rolling out the Build a Better Book project with teens who used the library’s makerspace to develop 3D objects to help visually impaired patrons better experience books in the library’s collection.
Many of these same themes are extended in this month’s Online Searcher section. These thoughtful articles by Mary Ellen Bates, Jennifer Boettcher, and William Badke focus on working with AI tools, data modeling, and coping with misinformation.
Dick Kaser, Executive Editor
kaser@infotoday.com
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