Research: ChatGPT and Readers Advisory

In our Library AI workshops, we mention the potential of AI-based tools like ChatGPT to assist with library services like Readers Advisory ("RA"). However, until recently, we only had anecdotal examples of how ChatGPT performed at this task.

So, we've spent some time lately figuring out how to methodically explore ChatGPT's capability as an RA tool.  It's slow going -- we've just dipped our toe in the water, so to speak -- but we see some great potential!

Integrating AI and Data With "Plugins"

Hey, everyone! So let's chat about ChatGPT. It's a handy little tool, right? But it does have a couple of quirks that can be annoying. First off, you may have heard of the "training cutoff". In simple terms, it means ChatGPT knows a bunch of stuff...up until the autumn of 2021. After that? It's kinda like it slept through the past year and a half and missed everything post-2021. Another big bummer: it can't browse the web either, so it's stuck with its 2021 knowledge.

Discover the Future of AI in Public Libraries with The Galecia Group's Virtual Summit

The Galecia Group is excited to sponsor PLAID3, a free virtual summit dedicated to exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in public libraries. This groundbreaking event, taking place on March 28th, aims to bring library leaders together to discuss and discover how AI can enhance library services, collections, and operations.

As a leader in library technology and innovation, The Galecia Group's mission has always been to empower public libraries with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. PLAID3 is a natural extension of this vision, as it provides an opportunity for library professionals to learn about AI, its applications, and its ethical implications in a supportive and interactive environment.

Protecting Your Library From Ransomware Attacks

As a kid, one of my favorite stories was O. Henry's "The Ransom of Red Chief," about a ransom plot gone awry: the kidnappers are so overwhelmed by the young "victim's" mischievous antics that they end up paying the child's parents to take him back.  And readers of a certain age might associate ransom with a comedy of errors, perhaps John Goodman's character throwing a satchel of dirty laundry during a fake ransom drop gone awry in "The Great Lebowski."

Galecia Video: Exploring IMLS Public Library Survey Data

Followers of our blog know that we're big fans of the Institute for Museum and Library Science (IMLS) library survey data releases -- these are the most comprehensive sources of data about public libraries in the United States.  So we were very excited this week to see that the FY2017 survey results have been released on the IMLS.gov website!

Not sure how to get started analyzing PLS data?  Check out this video where we introduce the data included in the survey and associated documentation.

 

Providing Information After a Disaster

When a disaster strikes, information can be just as valuable as water, power, or critical supplies!  Learn more about how your library can provide information and access following a disaster.

Providing Public Internet Access At The Library

One of the most critical requirements after a disaster is the restoration of communications with the outside world, and these days, that means the Internet.  While first responders, whether at the local, state, or federal level, may have their own data and communications infrastructure,  libraries can still provide access for responders, volunteers, and survivors.  Internet access is critical after a disaster for:

  • filing government disaster benefits claims
  • filing insurance claims and other paperwork
  • communicating with friends/family outside the disaster zone
  • coordinating volunteers and support from outside the disaster zone

Because Internet access is so important during a disaster, it may be necessary to expand opportunities for leveraging the library’s connectivity.