Research Blog : technology

Open House - Gizmos & Gadgets

wag.mado@evpl — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 21:09:00 GMT

Please join us on Monday, July 18th when the Savvy Seniors Series and Best Buy present, "Gizmos & Gadgets". This event is an Open House for all ages and will be held in the Browning Events Room from 3:00-8:30 PM. No reservations are required and you may stop by anytime and peruse the booths - where the newest technological devices will be displayed. We will have a little of everything from digital cameras, smart phones, laptops to e-readers. The Geek Squad from Best Buy will be there to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

Stop by and start letting technology work for you!

Additional Computer Basics Class Added for October First

Bufkinite@evpl — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:12:00 GMT

Due to the fact that all three computer basics classes filled up very quickly, EVPL has added an additional class to the fall schedule, for October 1st, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

This class will teach you all you need to know to get started using a computer without fear, and includes learning to use the mouse and keyboard, how to open different programs, and how to use the Microsoft Windows operating system.

You'll also learn the difference between hardware and software, and a little of the history of how computers developed from the first machines, which took up entire buildings but had less computing power than an iPod, to the laptop and handheld computers of today.

Registration information for this class can be found here.

Information about other computer classes can be found here.

Evernote

librarianinheels@evpl — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:23:00 GMT

I spend a lot of time trying to find things on the Internet. Not just for other people - for me, too. And a lot of times, I will find a web address, write it down, and promptly forget about it - or find it days, weeks, even months later - with absolutely no idea of why I jotted it down in the first place. I've recently discovered a handy way to keep track of all of those sites I've been meaning to check out, but never had the chance to, for whatever reason.

I subscribe to a lot of tech blogs, because I like gadgety things, and one entry a few months ago praised this little emerging site called Evernote. With Evernote, you can 'clip' items from the web and save them to personal folders...similar to Google Notebook, or Yahoo Notebook. Evernote is different, however, in that it can be synched with iPod Touch or iPhone, so you can access your notes at any time from your mobile device. A free account allows you to clip and save a lot of material - but for a nominal fee (something like $5 per month), you can have access to all the bells and whistles Evernote offers. For more information about what it is and how it works (I'm still learning myself!) click here.

Iconic Great Depression photos viewable at Flickr

librarianinheels@evpl — Sat, 23 May 2009 20:19:00 GMT

If you're not aware of Flickr, or what it is/does/can do, it's an online community for photo sharing...check it out at http://flickr.com. The White House has a photostream, as does the Library of Congress, which is making available to the public via flickr digitized versions of many of the most recognizable images from the Depression-era photdocumentary project conducted by the U.S. Resettlement Organization and the Farm Security Administration, and later the Office of War Information. The project was most active between 1935-1943, and the entire collection was transferred to the Library of Congress in 1944. Perhaps the most iconic and recognizable of all the images is "Migrant Mother" by Dorothea Lange, a landmark photo that put real faces on the plight of regular Americans during the Depression and the Dust Bowl. A set within the LOC's photostream, entitled FSA/OWI Favorites, contains staff picks and other favorite and famous photos from that collection.

It is amazing what's available to the general public via Flickr. It's worth it just to go to the site and see all of the glorious photos taken by people all over the world - but the LOC and White House Pages are a marvel. Some photos are available for download and use for things like research and school projects - however, please keep in mind that copyright restrictions do apply to content posted on Flickr, if you want to use a photo for something more than your own personal edification. At any rate, check it out!

Now You Can Download eBooks to Your Sony® Reader!

Bufkinite@evpl — Sat, 16 May 2009 21:10:00 GMT

EVPL customers have been asking about when they'll be able to load eBooks onto their Sony® Readers or Amazon Kindles. Beginning May 15th, they can start downloading eBooks to the Sony® Readers, thanks to the availability of eBooks from OverDrive in the new Adobe® EPUB format.

On the OverDrive pages, there is an entire page devoted to frequently asked questions about the EPUB format, as well a page listing all of the titles available for download in the new format.

More about the Sony® Reader can be found at Sony's web site.

Due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) issues, and the fact that it was primarily invented to push proprietary content, the Amazon Kindle is not supported by any format currently provided by OverDrive. Also, early reviews about difficulty migrating Kindle 1 content to the Kindle 2 device should give avid readers pause when it comes to investing in a Kindle.

Google Public Data Search

librarianinheels@evpl — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:48:00 GMT

One of the great things about Google that not many are aware of is its versatility when it comes to finding information. For example, if you want to know how to convert $500 into Euros, go to www.google.com, type in 500 dollars in euros, and hit enter. You'll get the value of US Dollars to Euros at the current level of exchange.

Now it's possible to search for public data records using Google that may be otherwise difficult, or at least cumbersome, to find. For example, if you want to know the Unemployment Rate in Vanderburgh County, go to www.google.com, type in "unemployment rate Vanderburgh County Indiana" (without the quotes), and hit enter. You'll get a direct link, with a graphic, at the top of the search page. When you click on the graphic, or the accompanying link, you're directed to statistics from the US Department of Labor housed on Google.

For more information, visit the Official Google blog on how to perform these public records searches and what more will be added.

Upcoming Computer Classes in May

HoodooVoodoo@evpl — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:30:00 GMT

During these tough economic times, everyone is trying to gain that competitive edge by sharpening their technical skills by going back to school to take classes or taking computer training skills courses, but in most cases these options cost money. Did you know that you can take computer classes and computer skills training at and through the library for free?

Registration is now open for the following classes being offered in the Tech Center at Central Library:

Google Explored (Tuesday, May 5, 2009 from 10:00-11:00 AM) - Did you know that Google was more than just a great search engine? In this class we will learn basic searching techniques along with other cool features like Google Maps, Google Translator, and Google Documents.

Requires some basic computer/Internet knowledge and experience.

Using the Library Databases (Tuesday, May 12, 2009 from 6:00-7:00 PM) - In this class we will learn about the different databases available through the library’s website. We’ll take a look at some of the databases we offer and how to use them to find information. The library databases are accessible anywhere through our website with a valid library card number.

Requires some basic computer/Internet knowledge and experience.

Welcome to the Internet (Wednesday, May 13, 2009 from 10:00-11:00 AM) - This class is an introduction to some of the basic functions of the Internet. We'll learn web basics, including accessing and navigating websites. Discover how the Internet works and why everyone’s using it.

Seating is limited to 15 individuals, so register today to reserve your spot in class. You may register in person, by phone (428-8200 ext 1515), or by email using the contact name link on the class description pages (click on class links above).

For a full listing of all free EVPL computer classes Click Here.

Also, if you don't have time to take advantage of our free classes, you can still take online computer skills courses for free through our database Learning Express Library. Once on Learning Express Library, choose Computer Skills on the left hand side of the page and then appropriate course you desire. Everything from Microsoft Word (97-07) to Windows Vista training is offered, with skill levels ranging from beginner to expert.

Check it out today!

Services available to laptop users at EVPL libraries

professor.knowsitall@evpl — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:31:00 GMT

Do you have a laptop? Bring it in on your next visit to the EVPL to take advantage of the following services!

Wireless Internet Access

Wireless internet access (aka Wi-Fi) is available for free at all locations. If your laptop has a wireless network card (odds are that it does), you'll simply need to enable it and connect to the "evpl-public" network.

Wireless internet access is compatible with Windows & Mac laptops, and most portable devices containing a Wi-Fi radio (such as cellphones, PDAs, etc). Check out our Wireless Internet Access page for step-by-step instructions on connecting with your specific operating system.

Wired Internet Access

If your laptop doesn't have wireless capabilities, wired internet access is also available at all locations. Bring an ethernet cable with you and ask a staff member for assistance. Wired internet access is compatible with Windows & Mac laptops.

Laptop Printing

A service we just recently added, laptop users can now print to library printers while at any EVPL location! By running a small print client from our website, library printers at the user's current location will appear on their laptop just like locally-connected printers would. Upon printing from the laptop, the print job can be paid for & retrieved from any Print Release Station at the user's current location.

Laptop printing is compatible with Windows laptops; Mac compatibility is not available. Check out our Laptop Printing page for step-by-step instructions on using the Mobile Print Client on your laptop. As the Mobile Print Client is only available on personal laptops used within the library, the "Launch Mobile Print Client" button is purposely disabled on all other computers.

With the increasing popularity of laptops, netbooks, and other connected portable devices, we're pleased to offer these connectivity options to our users. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please post them in the comments section below!

Saving Lots of Files to a Flash Drive? You need to know--

kiya@evpl — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:53:00 GMT

While browsing on a new found blog, the Swiss Army Librarian (aka Brian Herzog), I learned something I didn't know about saving files to a Flash Drive. Most folks will never have this problem, but people who save lots of small files to their flash drive might. It turns out that there is a limit to the number of files a root directory can hold. The limit is pretty high - about 700 or so - but once you hit it, you can't save any more files to that drive (or disk) no matter how much space you have left. So if you save lots of small files, be sure to set up some folders and save your files into those, instead of in the main directory. Otherwise, you might be seeing a file permission error that suggests your drive is "full, write-protected, or damaged."

Blog post by the Swiss Army Librarian

CNET forums post on same topic

Apple's app counter

librarianinheels@evpl — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 22:17:00 GMT

I stumbled across the news today that Apple is just about to the 1 billion mark in app downloads since last July, when the app store for the iPhone and iPod touch went live. They've posted a nifty countdown webpage that runs in real time, and also allows you to view the top 20 apps of all time. Check it out! A fun and interesting diversion.

Upcoming FREE Computer Classes

HoodooVoodoo@evpl — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:53:00 GMT

Registration is now open for the following classes being offered in the Tech Center at Central Library:

Searching the Library Catalog (Tuesday, April 14, 2009 from 10:00-11:00 AM) - In this class we learn to use the library’s online catalog to find books, DVDs, CDs, magazines and more. These valuable search techniques can be applied to many of today’s online search engines.

Introduction to Microsoft Excel (Thursday, April 16, 2009 from 6:00-7:00 PM) - You have asked for it and we have listened. We will be offering an hour long course in using Microsoft Excel. Microsoft Excel is an electronic spreadsheet program that can be used for storing, organizing and manipulating data. Come find out how to use Excel to keep data for home, business, or financial records as well as graphing or charting information.

Computer Basics (Tuesday, April 21, 2009 from 10:00-11:00 AM) - In this class we will learn to use the mouse and keyboard to open programs and navigate through Microsoft Windows. We will also learn a little history of the evolution of computers from their beginnings to today as well as discover the differences between hardware and software.

For a full listing of all free EVPL computer classes Click Here.

Check it out today!

Library Elf now a paid-subscription service; here's our free alternative!

professor.knowsitall@evpl — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:07:00 GMT

Library Elf, a free service that library patrons all around the world could use to keep tabs on their & their family's due dates, is no longer free. Check out their announcement here, which details the reasons for the change.

Since Library Elf began, we've been adding features to our own "My Account" section, many of which duplicate Elf's features. This means two things:

The EVPL is not currently planning on subscribing to Library Elf.
You don't need to either!

As long as we have your email address on your library account, you'll receive these email notifications free of charge! Follow these steps to make sure we have your correct email address on file:

Hit up the My Account page and log into your account using your name & library card number.
Click on the "Modify Personal Info" button.
Make sure the "I would like to receive my notices from the library by" option is set to "Email", and ensure we have your correct email address.
Click the "Submit" link.

Once this is completed, you'll begin receiving the following notifications via email:

Hold Pickup Notice: When an item you've had on hold is available at the requested library, you'll receive this notice within 24 hours.
Due Date Reminder: These emails get sent out 2 days before an item is due. A nice reminder to avoid those late fines!
First Overdue Notice: Sent out when an item is 4 days (for feature DVDs & Bestseller Express titles) or 7 days (all other materials) overdue.

Patrons are still free to subscribe to Library Elf's Premium service; however, the need to do so has greatly diminished. Those with Library Elf accounts who will be relying on our own email notifications from now on have been asked to close their Elf accounts; instructions on doing so can be found at http://www.libraryelf.com/FAQ.aspx#closeAcct.

If you have any questions or comments about our email notifications, please post them in the comments section below. Questions, comments, or feedback about Library Elf should be submitted to them. Library Elf is and has always been a third-party company with no affiliation to the EVPL, offering their notification services to patrons at libraries all over the world.

Having trouble figuring out Microsoft Word 2007?

HoodooVoodoo@evpl — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 21:10:00 GMT

As some of you may have been noticing, the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library is in the middle of their own "big switch" when it comes to the public computers. We are in the process of switching out the old Gateway Profile 5 computers to new Dell Optiplex 755 computers. These computers are step up from the old ones, but one constant area where I am getting questions concerns Microsoft Word.

The new Dell computers have Microsoft Word 2007 instead of Word 2003 and the display is noticeably different. All your favorite tools and buttons are still there, but Microsoft has moved them around and made them more user friendly or as I like to say "They made it so easy, that it's hard". To help ease the confusion I found a few easy to follow reference guides and tutorials. These tools are very simple to follow and should answer any questions you may have about the differences between Word 2003 and Word 2007. Check them out!

Word 2003 to Word 2007 Command Reference Guide

Word 2007 Training Tutorials

Word 2007 Help

Office 2007 Training Courses

OverDrive @ EVPL now Mac compatible!

professor.knowsitall@evpl — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:31:00 GMT

OverDrive @ EVPL is a collection of downloadable materials (including audiobooks, eBooks, movies, & music) available free of charge to all EVPL cardholders. Since launch, patrons with Windows PCs have been downloading countless items from this digital collection...unforunately, Mac users were out of luck.

That is no more, as a Mac version of the OverDrive Media Console (the software required to download items) has just been released! Mac users can now download MP3 audiobooks and transfer them to iPods.

Unfortunately, there are a couple caveats for Mac users:

OverDrive MP3 Audiobooks are the ONLY compatible format available for Mac users. OverDrive WMA Audiobooks, OverDrive Music, & OverDrive Video all use Microsoft-based DRM and therefore are not compatible with Macs. Unless Apple were to license this DRM, which is very unlikely, these formats will never be playable on Macs.
OverDrive Media Console (aka OMC) for Macs can only transfer content to Apple iPods. Transferring to a MP3 player/portable device other than an iPod requires the Windows version of OMC, which only runs on Windows-based PCs.
OMC is unable to transfer content to the iPod Shuffle. Owners of these devices can transfer content to their device using iTunes.
Windows users with iPods will continue to use the Windows version of OMC to transfer content to their device. The Windows version of OMC is also compatible with a wide variety of additional devices, including the Microsoft Zune, Creative Zen series, and more.

Visit OverDrive @ EVPL, browse our collection, install the required software, and download to your heart's content! If you have any questions about the recently-added Mac compatibility, or if you have any questions/comments about OverDrive in general, please post them in the comments section below or contact us via Ask EVPL.

More Information

OverDrive @ EVPL: Visit our OverDrive site to start downloading our digital materials!
What is OverDrive?: Check out this guided tour of OverDrive to discover what it is and how to use it.
Compatible Portable Devices: A list of compatible portable media players that can be transferred to using the Windows version of OMC.

New computers at EVPL libraries

professor.knowsitall@evpl — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 21:29:00 GMT

Public-use computers at all EVPL libraries are being replaced with new Dell Optiplex 755 computers. With Windows XP, Core 2 Duo processors, and 2GB of RAM, these computers are much speedier than our old ones! These computers also include DVD burners (that burn CDs as well) and memory card readers (for use with memory cards from digital cameras).

Due to the unreliable nature of floppy disks (mysteriously losing files or getting jammed in disk drives), these new computers do NOT have floppy disk drives. We recommend patrons upgrade to one of the following storage methods to work on files at EVPL libraries:

Flash Drives (recommended): These plug into a USB port and are accessed just like a floppy disk. However, they are much more reliable and spacious than floppy disks. Flash drives with 1GB of storage can be purchased for $10 at all EVPL libraries.
Memory Cards: Memory cards, like those used in digital cameras, can be inserted into the memory card reader and used as a disk.
CD-R/DVD-R: Files can be burned to writeable CD-R or DVD-R. However, working with files on a CD-R/DVD-R is much more cumbersome than with a flash drive/memory card; CD-R/DVD-R is not recommended for files you'll be updating regularly. CD-Rs with 700MB of storage can be purchased for $1 at all EVPL libraries.

These new computers are already available at East, McCollough, Red Bank, Stringtown, & West. They'll be installed at Central, North Park, & Oaklyn by the end of the month.

Finally, we're having a Computer Sale this Friday at 9:00am. We'll be selling off some of our old computers. Stop by if you're looking for a good deal!