The Colorado State Library (CSL) is continuing to build out its Library Creation & Learning Centers website, a free online resource where libraries throughout the state and beyond can access interactive technology and customer service training modules for staff, Maker space programming ideas, curated links to digital creation software, and more. While the site currently focuses primarily on tech-related topics, there are plans to expand it to offer resources and training materials for a range of subjects.

On June 11, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), in collaboration with the Congressional Maker Caucus, Maker Media, and Nation of Makers, hosted its first Capitol Hill Maker Faire, featuring a series of panel discussions and an expo open to the public, including members of Congress. Held in conjunction with this year’s National Maker Faire at the University of District of Columbia and the White House National Week of Making, June 12–18, these events indicate the growing interest in our nation’s capital in the Maker movement and its potential implications for education, workforce development, and community building.

The Westport, Ct. library has two robots that patrons can learn how to program.

"The NCSU Libraries Mobile Scavenger Hunt is a unique, interactive way to introduce students to the sometimes overwhelming library environment. Students are assembled into teams and given fifteen questions about the Libraries' spaces, services, and collections. In this fast-paced game, they have just 25 minutes to answer as many questions as they can."

Neat idea for a QR code program!

 

"Lafayette’s team of stellar librarians (the PRA Team) fingered Carmen using an array of library tools. Now you need to find the secret location where Carmen stashed the sword before she has time to move it again. Luckily, Carmen left clues for her henchman about the sword’s whereabouts. Your task is simple: pursue Carmen’s trail by visiting stations located throughout the library. By enlisting the help of librarians at each station, you will be given clues that will lead you to the Marquis’ sword. Along the way, you may just learn some useful tips about using the libraries."

NYPL Labs is rolling out free, innovative, online projects that improve as patrons use them.

OverDrive recently introduced a couple of new font options for readers with dyslexia: OpenDyslexic and OpenDyxlesic Bold. I took a couple of screenshots from a book I'm currently reading in my OverDrive app on my iPad mini so you can see the difference. The first one is in Palatino font: The second image is in OpenDyslexic font: It's good to see that the e-reading experience is becoming more accessible for everyone. Bonus image from Tech Day: I recently got a standing desk from Varidesk and shared some of it photos at Tech Day. Here's an photo of how I use...

All you wanted was a fun photo to go with your article—not a lawsuit. This infographic explains how to stay on the right side of the law, as well as tips for creating original images.

Google has partnered with child safety experts at iKeepSafe, and also worked with educators themselves to develop lessons that will work in the classroom, are appropriate for kids, and incorporate some of the best advice and tips that Google's security team has to offer.

Class 1: Become an Online SleuthClass 2: Manage your Digital FootprintClass 3: Identify Tricks and Scams Online

Join this webinar to learn how to grow a maker space or creation space in your library.

Design a QR Code 'Treasure Hunt' to get students using their mobile devices to move and to learn