Technology

This looks like just the type of program a middle school librarian could love. CS, or Computer Science First is a free Google program designed to increase student exposure to computer science education through after-school, in-school, and summer programs in a club approach run by teachers and/or community volunteers. CS First works towards its goal [...]

Leading library ebook distributor OverDrive was sold to Rakuten on March 19 for $410 million cash, more than 16 times OverDrive’s annual earnings of $25 million. The purchase from private equity firm Insight Venture Partners, OverDrive’s majority owner since 2010, is scheduled to close in April. OverDrive will become a subsidiary of Rakuten USA, the U.S. arm of Japanese e-commerce company Rakuten. CEO Steve Potash will continue to lead OverDrive, and its headquarters will remain in Cleveland, OH.

In its breath and depth, a new app created by the New York City Department of Education in partnership with four cultural institutions will help students understand the value of primary sources, develop insight into the experience of millions of new arrivals to our nation in the early 20th century, and explore historical thinking. And best of all—it's free.

I recently learned about two online creation tools and have spent some time (too much time?) exploring both. Now I’m going to share my possibly overly excited thoughts with you. True story: I loved both of these tools and played with them a lot – so I could evaluate them for you of course. See, [...]

Design thinking and making were top of mind at SXSWEdu, as participants considered the learning potential around these hot topics. In official programming, in the hallways, and over barbecue, librarians were on hand to help advance that conversation.

Teacher librarian Phil Goerner shares updates on the creation and establishment of his high school's first maker space.

Follett has recently announced an ebook partnership with Carolina Biological Supply, a provider of science lab materials and curricula.

Full STEAM Ahead with Tween and Teen Programming You can register and view the archived webinar here What you’ll find in the webinar slideshow: Why use technology in your library programming? What technology can you use in your library programming? Evaluating Cubelets, Little Bits, Makey Makey, Raspberry Pis and Spheros (with help from The Robot [...]

Due to the partnership between Thomas Middle School in Arlington, IL, and Arlington Heights Memorial Library, a group of 29 eighth graders participated in a maker class creating everyday objects, including jewelry and take-apart scissors.