A Technology Library of Things: Robots, Drones, 3D Worlds, and Virtual Reality

A Technology Library of Things: Robots, Drones, 3D Worlds, and Virtual Reality

This hands-on and interactive presentation will share the results of experimenting with a wide array of technology from the iSchool Library Technology Research Lab (LTRL) at San Jose State University. The mission of this lab is twofold: 1) To conduct research into leading edge technology and its potential use in libraries, and 2) To leverage its location in Silicon Valley by partnering with technology companies to collaborate in this research. The session will include discussion around what types of technologies are on the horizon for use as part of the nation’s library of things movement, demonstrations of technology, and discussions around how they are currently being used and the pro’s and con’s in using them. Four main types of technology will be demonstrated and discussed: robots, drones, 3D/augmented learning, and virtual reality (VR).

As digital access continues to grow and physical collections continue to shrink, libraries are reassessing their use of digital and physical space and the services they provide (ALA, 2020). One of the trends identified in the State of Libraries 2020 Report is the growth and proliferation of a Library of Things, which means that libraries are checking out and allowing patrons to borrow much more than just books, traditional materials, and technology. The move towards becoming a “library of things” means maximum flexibility and opportunity to meet the high priority and local needs of its community. It also allows libraries to continue realizing one of its core values: evening the playing field by providing access to everyone in the community regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.

One of the core areas of a library of things is technology and digital literacy; understanding, interacting with, and having free and equal access to leading edge technologies which allows all libraries, librarians, children, and members of the community the opportunity to learn about and use it. In order for libraries to stay relevant and consider loaning out and/or offering programming on such technologies, however, librarians must first be introduced to these technologies themselves and carefully explore how new technologies might be used to greater promote the library and its services, innovate in how the library provides programming and education, and explore the potential use and incorporation of such technologies at their library.

Each of the technologies will be demonstrated and attendees will have a chance to interact with the technology both before and after the presentation and also join the Library Technology Research Lab's virtual lab space to assist us in identifying new technologies we should be conducting research on in the future.