Corey Adam Everett
Transforming craftsmanship into curation — where structure, story, and technology converge.
MLIS, UNCG 2025
SAA Member
35 Learning Outcomes
Transforming craftsmanship into curation — where structure, story, and technology converge.
My path into library science didn't begin in a classroom — it started in a welding shop. Working with physical materials taught me how structure gives things meaning: every joint, every fit, every weld had to be intentional. That same mindset now drives my approach to digital collections, metadata, and information architecture.
Through the MLIS program at UNCG, I've explored how organizations produce, organize, describe, and share knowledge. From building curated digital collections and metadata crosswalks to designing user-centered search interfaces and community programs, my work sits at the intersection of technology, public service, and cultural preservation.
My capstone project, Arclyst, is an AI-powered personal archiving app that lets users catalog, label, and retrieve their physical belongings using natural language and QR codes — bridging the gap between professional curation and everyday life.
The paper explores how the Smithsonian, as a significant public institution, manages knowledge creation through policies and infrastructure, then shares it through CC0 licensing and platform design. It validates this process with interoperable metada...
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
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Why?
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Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
[Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure]
Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
[Figure]
Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
[Figure]
Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
The Creative Horizons Library selects age-appropriate, skills-building arts resources for grades 6–8 that combine print guides, practice workbooks, visual anthologies, and streaming courses to support acting, voice, animation, art history, and film l...
The project demonstrates how physical access is represented through concrete attributes (materials, techniques, measurements, holding location), while intellectual access is facilitated by descriptive elements (titles, subjects, creator roles) normal...
The finding aid models archival arrangement through a hierarchical structure (Collection → series → sub-series → folders) with chronological and functional groupings that preserve provenance and original order. Core descriptive elements (title, creat...
LIS 640-02 Fall 2024
Assignment Template
Make a Finding Aid
Title: Corey Everett's Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework
Scope and Contents: The Collection comprises assignments, project drafts, sketches, final projects, and supplementary materials related to coursework in various foundational and advanced animation classes. It captures the essential skills and concepts taught within the curriculum, as well as the creative processes involved in developing animated works. The materials encompass a diverse range of animation practices, including traditional drawing techniques, character design, storyboarding, and digital animation.
Dates: 10/28/2024
Creator(s): Corey Everett
Biographical or Historical Information:
The Corey Everett Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework Collection offers an in-depth examination of the requirements of the animation program at The Art Institute of Houston, showcasing both personal development and mastery of technical skills throughout the degree. This period (2015-2018) was marked by rapid advances in animation technology, particularly in digital software, virtual production techniques, and 3D modeling, all of which are reflected in these student works.
This Collection encompasses a diverse range of coursework—from introductory exercises and sketches to final-year thesis projects—demonstrating growth in character design, storyboarding, 2D and 3D animation, and visual storytelling. Coursework encompasses both hand-drawn animation techniques and digital software projects, reflecting the hybrid approach to animation education prevalent at the time.
Arrangement Note:
The Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework Collection is arranged into two primary series based on the academic progression and thematic content of the coursework. Each series is further subdivided into sub-series, reflecting specific courses, projects, and types of materials. This hierarchical arrangement mirrors the educational structure of the animation program, organizing materials to capture both the evolution of skills and the thematic focus across semesters.
The Collection is organized as follows:
Series I: Foundational Coursework (2015)
This series includes materials from introductory courses, focusing on the fundamental skills and principles of animation. Within this series, sub-series are organized by specific topics, such as drawing and illustration basics, character design, and introductory animation techniques. Each sub-series includes a range of exercises, assignments, and project drafts that showcase the development of foundational competencies.
Series II: Advanced Projects and Specialized Coursework (2016-2017)
This series represents the more advanced stages of the program, including coursework from upper-level classes and specialized projects. Sub-series are arranged by project type and specific animation techniques, with folders organized chronologically to reflect the student's progression. This series highlights advanced animation skills, including digital animation techniques, storyboarding, and collaborative projects.
Series III: Final Capstone Project (2018)
Documents the comprehensive final project, including preparatory sketches, drafts, production notes, and final output.
This arrangement enables ease of access, guiding researchers through the coursework chronologically and thematically, thereby providing insights into the student's academic and creative growth throughout the animation program.
Collection Organization
Series I: Foundational Coursework, 2015
Sub-series A: Drawing and Illustration Basics
Sub-series B: Principles of Animation
Series II: Intermediate Projects, 2016-2017
Sub-series A: 2D Animation Projects
Series III: Capstone, 2018
Reflective Statement (750 words)
Archival finding aids are vital tools for creating order and accessibility within vast collections of records. They are designed not just to store information, but to reveal the stories and insights hidden within archives. As I have explored the intricacies of finding aids, I've come to appreciate the remarkable blend of structure, dedication, and expertise required to make archival materials accessible. This specialized skillset has both fascinated me and sparked a desire to deepen my understanding of archival science.
A finding aid serves as a roadmap for an archival Collection, breaking down the Collection into series and subseries, organizing the content into folders, and providing background notes to help researchers understand the context. Dividing collections in this way, our finding aids create an intuitive structure for navigating complex records. This organizational clarity is particularly crucial for researchers who may need to locate specific information within an extensive archive. With a well-designed finding aid, researchers are guided directly to precisely what they need, without having to wade through unrelated materials.
Working with finding aids has also shown me that this work demands a high level of skill and precision that only comes with experience. Organizing a Collection requires understanding both the overarching structure and the fine details within it. It's not just about filing papers in a logical order; it's about understanding the story behind each document and recognizing patterns that will allow others to access the information efficiently. I have realized that becoming skilled in creating finding aids requires a lifelong commitment to learning the art and science of archival organization. Mastery of this process comes only through years of practice and a willingness to adapt to new challenges and continually evolving best practices.
This level of commitment and expertise inspires me. I feel drawn to the idea of building a career around preserving, organizing, and making accessible the vast troves of information stored in archives. Knowing that I could spend my days delving into history, uncovering hidden connections, and making information accessible to others excites me. I want to be part of this specialized field where I can not only develop my organizational skills but also cultivate a sense of historical continuity. I recognize that to reach this level of proficiency, I will need to commit myself to a long path of learning and growth. However, the thought of dedicating my life to a career in archives is both exhilarating and fulfilling.
As I delve further into archival studies, I realize that learning XML is crucial for making archival finding aids accessible in a digital format. The thought of learning XML is both exciting and daunting. On the one hand, XML provides a structured approach to organizing and encoding archival data, transforming it into a format that can be easily shared, searched, and displayed online. This opens up tremendous possibilities for accessibility, as researchers around the world can access digital finding aids and explore archives without visiting in person. However, the complexity of XML presents a steep learning curve.
I believe that if I want a job after graduation, I need to learn XML, and there is no way around it. I hope I get a job. You know, I can write like this because I can sit here and think before typing. I do not speak the same way. Maybe that will change.
The OPAC design proposal emphasizes that user success depends on interfaces respecting different cognitive styles, abilities, and vocabularies—and that truly inclusive design combines accessible features with participatory description. Accessibility ...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
The analysis frames Smithsonian Open Access as a dynamic socio-technical system: CC0 licensing and scalable repositories connect researchers, educators, and creators through shareable images, 3D models, and datasets, while standards-based metadata an...
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
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Why?
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Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
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Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
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Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
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Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
The presentation underscores that librarians must combat misinformation and structural bias through transparent evaluation, inclusive language, and community-responsive description. It links ethical information provision to teaching source evaluation...
The Youth Leadership & Community Engagement Initiative exemplifies mission-driven planning by anchoring goals and services in the public library's educational and equity mission, then aligning audience definition, partnerships, resources, an...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The community analysis operationalizes assessment across the whole service spectrum: it triangulates demographic and economic data to surface inequities for seasonal workers and multilingual residents; audits current offerings to identify gaps in wor...
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna February 18th, 2025
While existing resources such as the Sierra Community House and the Tahoe City Library provide valuable services, stronger collaboration between these organizations and the library could expand access to critical services. For example, the Sierra Community House offers multilingual assistance and workforce development, which could be integrated with library resources to create a more comprehensive support system for seasonal workers and non-English-speaking residents (Renee, n.d.).
Additionally, partnerships with SOS Outreach and the Tahoe Public Utility District could introduce leadership and outdoor education programs that connect library users with community engagement opportunities (“North Lake Tahoe,” n.d.). The library could collaborate with these organizations to offer mentorship programs, outdoor literacy events, and community-building activities, thereby bridging the gap between education and real-world experience. Expanding these partnerships would increase accessibility to essential services and create a stronger support network for both full-time and seasonal residents.
Current Library Programs and Services
The Tahoe City Library offers a range of programs that promote literacy, education, and community engagement. These include:
Book Lending and Digital Access: Offering physical books, audiobooks, e-books, and public computer access (Tahoe City Library, n.d.).
Children’s and Family Programs: Including storytime events and summer reading challenges (Sun, 2021).
Adult Learning and Local History Resources: Hosting book clubs, career workshops, and talks on Tahoe City’s history.
Environmental and Outdoor Education: Providing sustainability and conservation programs relevant to the region.
However, there are service gaps in workforce development for seasonal workers, engagement opportunities for youth, and services for non-English-speaking populations.
Program Development: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
To address these service gaps, the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is proposed. This initiative aims to provide:
Justification:
Local case studies support the effectiveness of youth leadership programs in small communities. For instance, the Truckee Youth Leadership Initiative successfully increased civic engagement among local high school students through mentorship programs and community-driven projects. Similarly, the North Lake Tahoe Career Pathways program has provided career-readiness training to seasonal workers, thereby improving employment outcomes. By integrating similar strategies, the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative in Tahoe City can have a lasting impact on young residents and foster community cohesion. The Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is crucial for cultivating civic responsibility, workforce readiness, and a sense of belonging among Tahoe City's younger residents. Studies indicate that youth civic engagement is associated with improved academic performance, better career outcomes, and increased community involvement (Sun, 2021). Given Tahoe City's seasonal economy and limited access to higher education, it is critical to provide structured opportunities for leadership and professional growth (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Additionally, young residents often lack access to career readiness programs and mentorship opportunities, which are crucial for navigating post-secondary education and the job market (Sierra Community House, n.d.). The multicultural programming component addresses the increasing diversity in Tahoe City, ensuring that all residents feel represented and supported.
By investing in youth leadership and engagement, the Tahoe City Library can play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation for success, strengthening community ties, and addressing workforce development challenges. Success will be measured through key benchmarks, including increased participation in leadership programs, higher rates of youth volunteerism, and improved employment outcomes for program graduates. Additionally, periodic community feedback surveys and tracking of mentorship program completion rates will help assess long-term impact and identify areas for refinement.
This initiative will be delivered through in-person workshops, community partnerships, and service-learning projects. The implementation plan includes:
By implementing this initiative, the Tahoe City Library will foster greater youth engagement, leadership development, and community cohesion, ensuring that young residents play an active role in shaping their community's future.
References
Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. (n.d.). Census Reporter. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Renee. (n.d.). Sierra Community House—Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Sierra Community House. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
Sun, S. to the S. (2021, December 30). Library Loop: A look at events, opportunities and resources at local libraries. https://www.sierrasun.com/news/library-loop-a-look-at-events-opportunities-and-resources-at-local-libraries/
Tahoe City | Neighborhood Guide | Home & Slate Real Estate. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://homeandslate.com/neighborhoods/tahoe-city
Tahoe City, CA - Census Bureau Profiles Results. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://data.census.gov/profile?q=Tahoe%20City,%20CA&g=040XX00US06_160XX00US0638548
Tahoe City Community Center | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/parks-facilities/facilities-parks-and-rentals/community-centers/tahoe-city-community-center
Tahoe City Library. (n.d.). Placer County, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/facilities/facility/details/Tahoe-City-Library-19
The Creative Horizons Library applies user-centered design for grades 6–8 by offering multimodal, scaffolded pathways—how-to guides, practice workbooks, visual anthologies, and vetted streaming content—so that different learners can enter through ski...
The program centers outreach as both communication and equity: demographic analysis informs who is underserved and where to reach them (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.), while a partnership web—library, county community services, recreation...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The proposal highlights a manageable OPAC problem within the practitioner's control: unclear labels and disorganized layouts that hinder navigation; weak links between natural language queries and controlled vocabularies; inadequate accessibilit...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
The proposal collects and assesses evidence via a mixed-methods approach: brief usability tests and observations identify navigation and labeling issues; analytics such as zero-result rates and query reformulations reveal search difficulties; and int...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
Evidence from policies, platform practices, and metadata research informs a full design process: identify challenges (disjointed discovery, friction with controlled terms, bandwidth and inequality issues) from case studies and user feedback (Peet, 20...
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
[Figure]
Why?
[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space to emphasize a key point. To place this text box anywhere on the page, just drag it.]
Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
[Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure]
Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
[Figure]
Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
[Figure]
Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
Evidence from usability tests, query analytics, and accessibility assessments guides tool selection focused on user needs: a compliant UI framework that meets WCAG standards for forms, focus order, and contrast (Rysavy & Michalak, 2020); an OPAC ...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
The proposal functions as an instructional needs assessment: community demographics and partner inputs reveal priority gaps (leadership confidence, career awareness, belonging), while reference interactions surface misconceptions and skills deficits ...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The program applies design‑thinking to instructional planning by defining reasonable goals (leadership skills, career readiness, belonging), mapping each activity and resource to those goals (workshops, mentorship, service projects), and sequencing s...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The video evidences live instructional delivery: concepts are explained conversationally, with pacing and emphasis adjusted in response to likely viewer misconceptions about MUSTIE and crew ethics; rhetorical checkpoints ("here's the why be...
The evaluation combines surveys and reflections to assess instruction against objectives (leadership confidence, career readiness, civic engagement): post‑session ratings increased across confidence and readiness, and all respondents would recommend ...
Corey A. Everett | LIS655-01 | April 29th, 2025 Program Evaluation Reflection: Tahoe City Youth Leadership Presentation Presenting the first ten minutes of the Tahoe City Youth Leadership program and gathering feedback gave me the chance to step back and really take in how the audience connected to it. Looking at the input, specific themes emerged right away: people were genuinely excited about the hands-on activities, appreciated the mentorship connections, and wanted even more time with the program. The evaluation forms showed that leadership confidence and career-readiness skills improved after the session, and the overall tone of the responses was positive and encouraging. Figure 1: Confidence in leadership abilities before the program. Several strengths stood out clearly from the feedback. The tin foil boats activity was a favorite, with multiple participants naming it as the highlight. It seems that the ability to build, test, and compete in a simple, playful challenge helped people connect with the idea of leadership. The mentorship sessions and community service projects also left a strong impression, suggesting that when participants could see leadership and civic engagement in action, it clicked more deeply. It was encouraging to see that the creative delivery of the presentation was called out, showing that a bit of energy and storytelling can go a long way toward making a program feel alive. Figure 2: Activities participated in during the program.
Corey A. Everett | LIS655-01 | April 29th, 2025 Of course, no program is perfect, and the feedback pointed out some areas where I could improve. One repeated suggestion was that people wanted more—more time with the activities, and more sessions overall. A couple of evaluations mentioned that three sessions felt like just a taste. That made me realize that while the content was engaging, the pacing might have been too tight. Some participants also suggested adding more visuals. This feedback was a little frustrating, especially given the time and effort it took to create the Bauhaus-inspired posters using AI tools and real design knowledge. Creating more visuals would have required days, if not weeks, and that reality often goes unseen by audiences. Still, the takeaway is that future presentations might benefit from pacing visual content a bit slower to allow participants time to absorb it fully. Figure 3: Favorite parts of the program.
Corey A. Everett | LIS655-01 | April 29th, 2025 Reading through the feedback, I started thinking differently about what "success" looks like. It's not just about covering content; it's about leaving people wanting to keep going. That's a good problem to have, but it's also a reminder that good programming needs room to breathe. If I had the chance to rerun this program, I'd plan for longer sessions or a multi-week series. I'd also consider adding more physical, team-based challenges to give participants even more opportunities to engage with leadership skills firsthand. Figure 4: Likelihood of future civic engagement. Personally, presenting in a virtual session where most cameras were off added another layer of challenge. It wasn't easy to gauge reactions in real-time, and I had to rely on intuition and flow rather than visible engagement. I could feel moments of tension, like when participants were still trying to read a poster as I moved to the next one. Navigating that blind spot taught me a lot about pacing and about giving people space to catch up. This experience definitely made me realize how important it is to read the room, even when you can't see the room. Overall, the process of collecting feedback and reflecting on it has made me feel more confident not just in my ability to plan a program, but also in my ability to grow and adapt it. Programs aren't static—they live and breathe right along with the people they serve. That's something I'll carry with me into every future library program I design. Figure 5: Willingness to recommend the program to a friend.
Timestamp Name (OptiAge Group Before this How famili How prepa Which acti What was y What could 2025/04/15 5:46:00 PMOver 22 2 2 4 Leadership The tin foil bMore tin foi 2025/04/15Karen B Over 22 3 3 3 Mentorship Partners witMore than j 2025/04/15Taylor Over 22 4 3 4 CommunityenthusiasmNothing, gre 2025/04/15Justin Over 22 3 4 4 Leadership The delivery of the prese 2025/04/15Katie Over 22 3 5 3 CommunityDoing service projects! 2025/04/15 5:47:23 PMOver 22 5 4 4 Resume bu Interacting N/A 2025/04/15 5:47:41 PM14-17 3 2 3 Leadership The CommuI would love 2025/04/15 5:47:58 PMOver 22 2 2 2 Resume bu Mentoring aMore time t 2025/04/15 5:48:10 PMOver 22 2 2 1 Leadership The Community Service 2025/04/15Carly Under 14 2 2 2 Leadership I loved mee I would love 2025/04/15 5:49:13 PMOver 22 2 3 3 Resume bu All of the vaN/A 2025/04/15Clelia Tufts Over 22 2 3 3 Leadership I loved the awould love 2025/04/15Alyssa Over 22 4 4 5 Resume bu Learning ho 2025/04/15 6:25:25 PM18-22 4 4 4 Leadership The range oMaybe anot
How confid How likely How well d Would youIn one sente 4 4 4 Yes It was lit. 5 5 5 Yes What a grea 4 4 4 Yes Better helpe 5 5 5 Yes I was made 5 5 5 Yes 5 3 5 Yes It helped me 4 4 4 Yes This program 4 5 5 Yes I feel more c 4 5 4 Yes It helped me 5 5 5 Yes I learned a l 3 4 4 Yes Learned val 4 5 4 Yes 5 5 5 Yes It helped me 5 5 5 Yes I now have a
The Creative Horizons Library anticipates teachable moments by preparing quick‑reference mini‑guides (e.g., "How to warm up your voice," "Storyboarding basics," "Finding visual references ethically") drawn from accessibl...
The crosswalk examines how open-access mandates, rights frameworks, and description standards influence discovery, reuse, and fairness: permissive licensing allows access but needs accurate rights metadata; privacy and cultural-sensitivity constraint...
The presentation highlights trends shaping information practices—dis/misinformation ecosystems, politicized language, and changing source formats—and assesses their impact on reference, instruction, and equitable access. It states that fighting these...
By: Carlie, Jenna & Corey
In 1967 Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act
Established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, with the goal of providing educational, noncommercial media to the public
Out with cable TV, satellite TV was introduced
1979 – C-Span was founded, broadcasting sessions from the House of Representatives, hearings, and press
conferenes
1989 – CNN became the first live, around the clock news channel
In order to compete with cable news, networks started to feature documentary style programs like 20/20 to give more specific information on a specific topic
1989 – World Wide Web was launched
Organizations, businesses, and individuals started creating their own websites to share info
1994 – CNN and
The Chicago Tribune
developed websites
As internet became a more popular source for news, new platforms emerged that gathered articles from varied news sources into one space
Yahoo
American Online
Print publications started to produce digitally rather than converting print to digital formats
Internet evolved to what it is now, allowing individuals to write and distribute information through websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, and social media
47% of Americans prefer watching the news vs. reading or listening to it
44% of Americans prefer TV vs. 34% choose internet as their viewing platform
63% of Americans who prefer to read the news do so online vs. the 17% that prefer print
Americans younger than 50 prefer the web for news rather than reading, watching and listening
Newspapers and Periodicals that are printed weekly, daily, or monthly
Obtained through paid subscriptions and delivered to a specified location or received via website that can include recorded interviews, live updates, and interactive media
Apps that allow access to major news publishers that are free to download, but require subscription for content
Websites that are typically supported by advertising to offer free access to news information.
Articles may be authored by professional journalists or freelancers
Website may accept contributions from anyone who creates an account and submits an article
May serve as news aggregators which means they pull content from multiple sources across the internet
Include broadcasts, political and cultural commentary, radio shows and podcasts that can be watched on TV or internet
News broadcasts are aired live on both network and cable TV
Recordings can be accessed online
Radio shows are often live, but have paved the way for pre-recorded podcasts
Can be produced daily, weekly, monthly
Provide general, current news info but can also go into greater detail on a particular topic such as politics, business or the financial markets
News databases offer access to multiple news publications in one source
Designed for libraries
Subscription based
Librarians and patrons can search by keyword or construct advanced searches by publication, date, geographic location, and other criteria to find current and historical news
Fake news is used to describe information that is intentionally misleading
It is often created due to political interests to disrupt elections and public policy issues
Also used to generate money
Includes false information with the intention of influence a groups of people
Propaganda
Manipulative and persuasive
Oftentimes fake news has an outlandish headline that encourage readers to click on the article
General tips when determining the validity of a source: look at the website address, check the date of the article, read the "about us" page, look at multiple sources, fact-check, use a reverse image search machine
Three things a librarian should consider when evaluating a news source: format, authority, purpose
Figure 23.1
Libraries may subscribe to a variety of print newspapers and magazines for patrons who would like to read current news
Browse previous stories
Not always a print equivalent; librarians much search the internet on behalf of the patrons
Breaking news if found primarily on the internet
News sources are important to the public because…
Essential to functioning democracy – informs citizens of what is happening on a local, national, and international level
Dissemination of current events, political issues, and public affairs
Allows citizens the ability to make informed opinions and take action through consumer choices, voting, volunteering, etc.
When providing new sources, librarians should consider the origins of the source
Anyone can post anything on the internet at any time
Evaluate a sources reputation
Examine the authors expertise on the subject that is being reported
Every news piece has its own objective
Inform vs. Persuade
Five types of sources
News story -
reports the facts
Feature - provide greater analysis than a news story
Opinion piece -
provides insight for an individual or group’s perspective
Editorial -
written on behalf of a publishing house or agency
Adverstisement
– reporting on a topic and provide a solution or service
Most reputable news publication intent to provide accurate and objective coverage of an event
Hire professional journalists
Every journalist has a
differnet
way of obtaining their
informaiton
Establish trustworthiness through transparency
Primary vs. Secondary sources
Primary: reports, letter, e-mails, speeches, interviews, audio or video footage, official records, documents, receipts, reports, statistics, artifacts
Secondary: commentaries, critiques, textbooks, journals, histories
Being aware of
confirmatin
bias
"the tendency to seek out or trust sources and articles that confirm what an individual already believes to be true"
Currency
Is defined as...
Knowing the community for which subjects will be in collection.
Understanding the media of choice by your
patrons , specifically.
Example... Magazines 1st month in
collection is for in library use only and
developing digital access would provide
broader selection to a community that
prefers magazines.
(Wong and Sanders, 2020, p.496)
Current News
Historical Newspapers
Newspaper Indexes
Broadcasts and Transcripts
Images
Fact-Check Websites
News Sources for Children
Text book website examples...
Google News
User friendly interface of the platform
Will automatically generate personalized news to your search history and reading habits if an account is made.
Newsbank
3,000 sources on current and recent news for America
Also has 528 million current and archived articles from 172 countries.
Ebsco
Newspaper Source Plus
28 million articles from 1500 newspapers
Has an image collection as well
ProQuest Recent Newspapers
Digital editions of news from 2000's until current
Over 50 different of the most requested newspapers
Take aways are...
Current news can be found in newspapers, magazines, wire feeds, websites, and podcasts.
Hot vocabulary...
Newswire - fresh news that is sold, or press released to the news agency for distribution to the public.
Downsides...
Every website upsells another version of access to more information.
Historical Newspapers
Textbook Examples...
Historical Newspapers by ProQuest
Upsells entire database vs regional collections or specific titles
Google Newspaper Archive
One million scanned historical newspapers from 2,000 global newspapers
Project was abandoned, hard to read text, but is free
Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers, The Library of Congress
Selections of newspapers from 1789 to 1963
Articles can be downloaded as well
All services are free
Preserved articles from history in either older editions of existing publications or publications that no longer exist.
Are...
Take aways...
Directory of historical articles and will patch a person over to the source of the article found.
Examples from the textbook...
Elephind
– Free to use and has links to 3 million newspapers
International Coalition on Newspapers (ICON)
Genealogy websites, such as Ancestory.com may have newspaper indexes
The Library of Congress's Chronicling America
Reliable sources from the textbook...
Apnews.com - Which is The Associated Press's AP Archive
Vanderbilt Television New Archive – Newscasts from ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and Fox dating back from 1968 until present.
American Archive of Public Media
C-SPAN Video Library
Transcripts...
Nexis Uni
Factiva
NewsBank
Where do you find images related to news?
Curated Albums from news stories are available at sites like Reuters, BBS News, and New York Times.
Caution... News sources typically do not allow free use of their images.
Images for purchase can be found...
Getty Images
AP Images
News sources are important to library patrons because…
To stay informed
Trying to find more information on a topic
Within the library, both patrons and reference librarians can access several readily available sources that aren’t as easily accessible to the general public
Print/online publications
Live broadcasts
Podcasts
Social media
Credible fact-check resources should be unbiased and not beholden to any financial institution.
...Beholden means: Feeling you have a duty to someone because they have done something for you. (
Beholden
, 2024)
For Political news:
Politifact.com
Factcheck.org
For climate scientists:
Climatefeedback.org
For Multi-general sites:
Snopes.com
Allsides.com
What about the children?
Learning to detect misinformation along with other critical thinking skills to debunk
fakenews
.
Checkology.org
Example reliable news websites for children:
Tweentribune.com
Dogonews.com
Timeforkids.com
Stay current
Teach your patrons how to find reliable sources
You, as the reference librarian, are always a reliable resource
Cambridge Free English Dictionary and Thesaurus.
(2024).
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/
Unsplash
. (n.d.).
Beautiful Free Images & Pictures |
Unsplash
. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from
https://unsplash.com/
Wong, M. A., & Saunders, L. (2020).
Reference and information services: An Introduction
(6th ed.). Libraries Unlimited.
Not all news sources are created equally
Going beyond providing facts, sources can persuade the reader into a certain belief, idea or action
Not all sources are always accurate. It can be outdated or factually untrue due to articles being accidentally or purposefully published.
As a librarian, it is important to be able to understand the different types of news sources and how to properly evaluate them in order to provide credible information to patrons.
News dissemination
Before the written word was prevalent stories were passed by…
Word of mouth
Inscribed on stone, clay papyrus
Common folk were not always literate, it was mainly the elite so information and news was largely created, controlled and contained by those in political or religious authority.
The invention of the modern printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15
th
century is what made it possible for information to be spread to the masses
Improvement of printing techniques
Production because more affordable
Literacy spread
Different formats were created for sharing information
Subscription services to receive weekly newsletters about politics, government, and war
Pamphlets that detailed wars in surrounding countries were printed in response to public interest
It wasn’t until the 19
th
century that newspapers became a staple of information dissemination
In 1971 the 1
st
Amendment which guarantees freedom of speech, and press, became part of the Bill of Rights
Production costs still limited newspaper circulation to the elite
Benjamin Day
In 1833, Day created
The Sun
newspaper which focused on happenings, police reports, and local coverage to attract and engage readers
Could print 18,000 copies an hour
Sold newspaper space to businesses who wanted to advertise
Advertisement allowed him to gain revenue and sell the newspaper for a penny to make it more affordable for common folk
Led to newspapers all over the country
Technological advances that impacted news coverage and access:
Samuel Morse invented the telegraph, allowing newspapers to receive current news briefs from around the world
Mid 20
th
century brought radio and television to the public
Watchers/listeners were bombarded with advertisements in a new way
Radio & TV didn’t require subscriptions like the newspaper, so to pay for programming, air-time was purchased by advertisers and commercials were developed
During WWII news programs became a regular part of the broadcasting schedule
CBS and NBC had two 15 minute programs at 8pm on certain days of the week
In 1948, TV’s were more prominent in American homes; therefore, news became a nightly program
In 1963 CBS and NBC expanded from 15mins to 30mins, in 1967 ABC followed suit
The prevalence of news outlets allowed Americans to rely on them for information (presidential elections, assassination of John F. Kennedy, Vietnam War, etc.)
The proposal presents a clear local advocacy plan that connects the library’s mission to community outcomes and partners as amplifiers. It maps stakeholders (youth, families, schools, recreation, social-service agencies) and assigns roles for message...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The NCLA conference reflection discusses how professional groups bring practitioners together to shape collective advocacy—through shared design literacy, ethical language around data/efficiency, and change-management practices—and how individual inv...
Reflection on the 66th NCLA Conference
I attended the 66th NCLA conference in Winston-Salem after a long drive and, due to timing, was able to participate primarily on the final day. I attended two sessions, including a poster session, and used the experience to reflect on how we present information, interact professionally, and discuss data-driven management in library settings.
Several posters were visually appealing at first glance, yet some suffered from print-resolution issues and template-driven layouts that obscured otherwise thoughtful content. The lesson I took from this is straightforward: visual design is not cosmetic; it is integral to information work. Basic concepts—visual hierarchy, legibility at print scale, and foundational composition principles (e.g., rule of thirds, consistent grid use)—can markedly improve comprehension. Incorporating a simple pre-print checklist (resolution, type size at viewing distance, color contrast, file format for large-format printing) would help future presenters translate good ideas into accessible, professional artifacts.
Most of my interactions were friendly, if brief. I noticed an initial enthusiasm that sometimes tapered after a short exchange. Rather than interpreting this as guardedness, I now read it as the product of a busy final day and the reality that people manage competing obligations at conferences. It also prompted me to consider how my own presentation—dress, tone, and a generally informal demeanor—lands in a formal setting. The experience was a valuable reminder to lead with curiosity, assume positive intent, and meet colleagues where they are.
A second session, led by a director from a private college in the region, described a multi-year analytics project intended to streamline services and reallocate resources. The talk suggested that efficiencies might reduce staffing needs over time. Hearing this, I found myself weighing two commitments that can coexist: stewardship of limited budgets and care for the people who deliver library services. "Efficiency" initiatives are most constructive when framed as reinvesting staff capacity into high-value, patron-facing work—outreach, instruction, digital scholarship support—rather than as head-count reduction. The rhetoric we choose matters: it shapes trust, adoption, and long-term service quality. Change management, transparency, and a professional development plan should accompany any substantial process redesign.
In my current non-library role, I have seen how modeling consistent, high-effort work and tightening inefficient steps can lift team performance and outcomes. At the same time, many factors contribute to gains, minor process improvements—clear handoffs, sensible batching, standardized checklists—compound quickly. The approach I hope to bring into librarianship is not about working faster for its own sake; it is about reducing friction so staff can spend more time on the creative, relational, and scholarly parts of the job. Leading by example, with an emphasis on shared learning rather than competition, tends to be both sustainable and morale-positive.
Conclusion. The NCLA experience reminded me that how we design, how we speak about change, and how we show up for one another are inseparable from the quality of library service. I left with renewed commitment to pair rigor with empathy: to make processes better so people can do their best work.
The OPAC proposal promotes an equity-first approach targeting structural barriers in search and interfaces. It requires WCAG-aligned layouts, forms, and focus order to remove disability access barriers across devices; simplifies labels and visual hie...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
The proposal treats OPAC improvement as a system of interdependent parts rather than isolated tweaks: inputs (patron queries, assistive‑tech interactions, analytics), processes (labeling and layout logic, vocabulary mediation via synonym/variant mapp...
OPAC Design Research Proposal
Corey A. Everett
University of North Carolina Greensboro
LIS 600-02: Foundation of Lib / Info Science (SP24)
Dr. Noah Lenstra
Brief Reference to Literature
As an undergraduate in animation and art, I have been trained to capture people's interest and understand what keeps it - through media. Design principles and other techniques are employed to capture the audience's attention while maintaining their engagement. With this skillset and knowing that libraries are an essential part of public life across the world, the current state of an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) is appalling. Even with the couple of years of experience that I have in the library, I find going to an OPAC such as EBSCOHOST unfamiliar to my cognition. This is not very pleasant; it should be a welcoming interface, as librarians are perceived in society. The poorly executed interface may even create a false image of an unapproachable librarian. If the digital content is unapproachable, then the people associated with it could have repercussions for the patron's cognition. The design of the search page, as well as the search results page, should not be a maze of text that confuses the eyes.
There is competition for researchers to go elsewhere, not to the library. Google, Science.gov, Wikipedia, RefSeek, Base-Search.net, etc. Those are free search engines that require no subscription or login. Whether or not the library is public or academic, membership is required. Why are and will people continue to go out of their way to take an extra step when they do not need to? We cannot fall back on the idea that humans are a community-driven species. If options keep presenting themselves, then maybe there will be no library. Designing an OPAC that complements everyone's eye is possible. Standardizing one would be impossible because the rights of people's choice would be in jeopardy. That is why someone or a team needs to create their own unique flawless design.
OPAC Design Research Proposal
What will make the OPAC so flawless in design that users will prefer it over the standard search engine? Is color theory being implemented in OPAC's design? Are typography principles being questioned in the development of OPAC design? I have found that the primary concerns of an OPAC curator are mostly related to the pathways to the material and to its upload to a database. These are not a concern for a researcher unless the pathways impede their navigation.
Research from Goldey-Beacom College was featured in an article highlighting the accessibility of library digital content. Michael J. Bennet, a digital initiatives librarian from C/W MARS library network, published an article about OPAC design enhancements and their effects on circulation. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian at Quinnipiac University, presented the findings of a GUI system on the search results page, replacing lines of text. John Porter, a student at Queensland University of Technology, published an article on folksonomy in libraries and its relationship to user accessibility. This is all progress, but there are still plenty of avenues to explore.
Russel Michalak, Director of Hirons Library, Archives, & Learning Center. Monica D. T. Rysavy, Director of Institutional Research. Both provide services to Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware. They found library users with disabilities filed complaints against higher education institutions that mention academic libraries for failing to provide equal access to digital content (Rysavy, Michalak, 73). Later, the University of California, Berkeley was involved in a class action lawsuit filed against it for failing to provide equal access to digital resources for the hearing-impaired population. Pennsylvania had the National Federation of the Blind file a complaint against it for accessibility issues as well. Michalak and Rysavy not only found patrons with disabilities in their search for the library's tools' accessibility levels. They conducted an audit using the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool). They found 4.92 (library instruction pages) and 8.52 (instruction request forms) red flag errors. They also found 12.55 and 8.52 contrast errors. Their findings indicate that the errors are issues with their vendors. This suggests outsourcing needs continued management supervision.
C/W Mars Library Network employed a Digital Initiatives Librarian, Michael J. Bennet, who compiled data from 1999 to 2007 on slight modifications to the OPAC's functionality across sixteen libraries. He states that both academic and public libraries have invested significant amounts of capital in OPAC design. It proved that within the seven years, they failed to perform their job duties in the design department. One year, the OPAC had an enhancement that enabled patrons to place holds themselves with a single click. He admits that the other years within the data taken had only minor updates. One of these updates included an extra hyperlink to an additional database, but the hyperlink pathway was broken, resulting in an adverse patron reaction. He goes on to explain that the research could not be fully evaluated because he was unable to go back before 1999. There were only 3 years before the existence of library catalogues, just to put his explanation in perspective.
Graphic Interface Within an OPAC Research
Quinnipiac University has extraordinary personnel. Terry Ballard, an Automation Librarian, found articles that supported his case, reinforcing the idea of implementing a Graphic User Interface (GUI) within the OPAC's search results. The reinforcement was that a GUI would help make the digital reference "familiar." Terry had a friend at Microsoft who he tried to get help with the coding for the project. He was promised help because Microsoft had a program that helped universities. Yet Terry would be disappointed that it never came to fruition. He planned to create a template in Java or XML that would automatically generate his virtual shelf as a GUI. He called the initiative Virtual Electronic Reference Source Organizer, or VERSO. His code was written in HTML, and he included it in the article. He begins the reference catalogue with Pictures of the Library isles and adds subjects in place of what would typically be a range of LOC call numbers. Then, upon entering the shelf picture, the user is presented with a line of book spines in a GUI, each with their title followed by the beginning of their LOC call number. The full-length call numbers would be displayed on the page after they clicked on the book spine of the book they wanted to view. The response they got was astounding, and it only goes to show that design and interactive digital display are a necessity for the OPAC to be popular.
Level 5 Heading.
Folksonomy is a user-developed system for categorization. User tags or personally meaningful terms make it. Unlike taxonomy, which uses terms chosen from a controlled vocabulary. John cites Isabella Peters, stating that the most commonly cited disadvantages of folksonomy result from their lack of semantic and linguistic control, which, ironically, are also their greatest strengths (Porter, 251). Another tragic downfall is the improper use of singular and plural forms, compound words, misspellings, incorrect encodings, and symbols in tags. These all negatively affect searchability. John found another study that, in a university library, folksonomies, together with robust and formal language, were usable for thematic metadata added to documents to enhance their descriptions.
What will I do?
As part of incorporating ADA compliance into my OPAC design, I will learn what makes WAVE detect red flags and contrast errors, and ensure my design does not contain any. I would think that this design needs to be done at the top level. Without data on which OPAC is most widely used, I would choose EBSCOhost as the OPAC to redesign. The purpose is to have the most users. The more users who see it, the more will spread word of mouth about liking using the OPAC instead of Google, Refseek, Wikipedia, Yahoo, etc. Hopefully, a patent can be obtained to protect the design from copying for 3-5 years. That would allow people to transition from using other search engines. I will never make excuses like the C/W Mars librarian.
I am thinking that EBSCOHOST might not be the best idea. I really like the idea of convincing the biggest mega power catalogue to commission my request. However, Quinnipiac University's innovative GUI for reference search results is no longer available today. I could not find it. What I did find was a company called VERSO that claimed to provide library services. I am unsure of the mission or whether I have seen the correct company. If I had, it would seem a total shame that it is a secret in whatever small portion of the world they are in, and the only way to see it is by purchasing it. In that case, I would rather not do it for a big corporation such as EBSCOHOST. In this sense, I am undecided.
Not only would I incorporate what I believe to be right by design, but I would also gather a team, ensuring that bias and ALA policy are upheld to the highest standard. Ethical principles will always be met in accordance with the Belmont Report. Bias checks and balances would be applied to every decision made each day, to ensure that none are made.
Let us revisit the questions I posed at the start of this paper. The OPAC I created addresses not only the catalogue itself, but also the search engine page. I notice grey boxes on almost every advanced search page. This goes against color theory for appealing. I don't know who is in charge, but they need to read a book on color theory. I am wondering why others are following the other guy as well. The white, grey, and black would follow the monochromatic wheel fairly well; however, when we consider text and places where people spend hours in a text environment, we can learn something by visiting those sites and apps. I can think of two that I personally know from prior use. Discord and Line App. These two apps, people mingle for hours. Yes, I understand, it is not a searching database. Fine, ask yourself, Is my web browser in dark mode? I am willing to bet that it is. My point is that if an OPAC is just text, it should have adopted an inverted scheme a decade ago. Again, there are bias controls in this hypothetical. Then again, there is an Art Director who, at the end of the day, has the final say.
What about typography? I do not think this was a forethought on EBSCOHOST's part. There are spaces between words, between letters, between lines. There is a contrast intended, a hierarchy, and a size difference. Every time I visit EBSCOHOST, I find flaws. I have to take several moments, up to an hour altogether, to take a break from what I am doing because it is so distracting.
I have recently been creating my first LibGuide, and I have spent over 25 hours on it. I am constantly refreshing my preview page on both my desktop and my mobile phone. I am doing that so that it is relevant to people, regardless of the device they use. I mention this because it lacks kerning, line spacing, and leading options. Just as in that scenario, I am sure the OPAC creation tool has its limits. There are creative ways to overcome them. They also take a long time.
Not only would I fix the color contrast and the typography, but I would also build a GUI for the interface and fix all the broken links. I would figure out what the deal is with all the time-outs and why EBSCOHOST will not just reload. It should be able to recall an IP address and refresh the page to its original state. Instead, it almost seems programmed to fault out on purpose. It has to be one of the most annoying things in the world. I have to restart my search from the beginning if I haven't been on my computer for 15 minutes. This is a paid service, and that is entirely unacceptable. This is what I will do.
References
Ballard, T. (2008). VERSO Graphic Interface to Reference Sources: A Project of Quinnipiac University's
Arnold Bernhard Library. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3–4), 265–275.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930820802289300
Bennett, M. J. (2007). OPAC Design Enhancements and Their Effects on Circulation and Resource Sharing
Within the Library Consortium Environment. Information Technology and Libraries, 26(1), Article
https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v26i1.3287
Rysavy, M. D. T., & Michalak, R. (2020). Assessing the Accessibility of Library Tools & Services When You
Aren't an Accessibility Expert: Part 1. Journal of Library Administration, 60(1), 71–79.
https://doiorg.libproxy.uncg.edu/10.1080/01930826.2019.1685273
Spiteri, L. F. (2006). The Use of Folksonomies in Public Library Catalogues. Serials Librarian, 51(2), 75–89.
The disaster plan demonstrates strategic planning by translating mission and risk analysis into phased objectives (mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery) with clear roles (incident command, communications, facilities, collections, salvage), re...
Memorandum
To: Dr. Kathlene Smith
From: Corey Everett
Subject: Archival Accession
In the following, you will find a case for a disaster plan.
Repository Description:
EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is dedicated to preserving all materials and files created during the magic of making our animation. We started in the year 2015. Our founder, Mr. Corey Everett, started it when he began his undergraduate degree at the Art Institute of Houston. Today, the company only employs the founder.
EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is located in Badger, Minnesota. The building is 1600 square feet and was built in 1957. There is an 11'x11' room dedicated to storing all the tools used to create content. The room has been renovated with new flooring and mold-preventative paint. A vapor barrier is installed between the subfloor and the flooring to prevent basement humidity from seeping into the room. The Studio is heated and cooled by a heat pump. It also has an extra propane furnace for the -50 degree Fahrenheit winter days.
Collections include storyboards, notes, reference books (art, animation, computer software, history, sociology, etc.), and computer hard drives.
Assessment of Area Disasters:
Wind –
Badger, Minnesota, is on the lower end of tornado threat, but they still occur nearby (within a few hours' drive). More frequent is the susceptibility to straight-line winds. Fifteen mph winds are regular throughout the year. At least a few days a week, the gusts get up to thirty-five mph.
No historic records of tornadoes since 1955, and no landmark hurricane since 1851 (Badger, MN Hurricane Map and Climate Risk Report, n.d.).
Flood –
The city of Badger is zoned on a ridge, and the location of EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is on this ridge.
This year, 15.4% of properties in Badger have a risk of flooding. In 30 years, 16.2% of properties in Badger will have a risk of flooding (Badger, MN Flood Map and Climate Risk Report, n.d.).
Among these properties, EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is located in the center of the ridge. This makes our property least likely to be part of the 16.2% in 30 years.
Fire –
As of now, the risk of a wildfire hazard is about 0.5%. In 30 years, it will rise to a whopping 2% if climate change is not addressed.
EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is not at a high risk of being impacted by a wildfire.
Risk Factor™ by First Street™ is the leading provider of climate risk data (Badger, MN Wildfire Map and Climate Risk Report, n.d.). They place Badger, Minnesota, at significant risk of wildfire because of the ifs involved when a wildfire occurs. The ifs include evacuation routes, utility and emergency service cut-offs, and the overall economic well-being of Badger.
Snow and Ice –
While Badger, Minnesota, receives an average of 37.8 inches per year (ROSEAU, MINNESOTA - Climate Summary, n.d.), EverCreate Studio Archival Repository has a well-insulated roof that prevents ice from accumulating. Snow removal from the roof is a one- to two-times-a-year preventive maintenance activity, consistently performed to uphold the integrity of the building and its contents.
Disaster Kit:
While we believe we have a good start on disaster prevention at EverCreate Studio Archival Repository, the following items have been carefully selected for additional protection in the event of a natural disaster.
Supplies | Store | Price |
NGP (National Guard) FS10 Door Flood Barrier Shield | https://www.trudoor.com/ngp-national-guard/fs10-door-flood-barrier-shield-10-inch-height | $339.06 |
Water Force WL (damn) | https://quickdams.com/products/water-force-wl?variant=47307491672375 | Range $890.00 – $4290.00 |
500 - Gallon Water Storage Tank | $747.09 sale $1225.99 regular | |
FireKing™ Filing Cabinet | Range $800.00 - $7,133.60 | |
FireKing Storage Cabinet | $5,766.60 | |
Fire Sprinkler System | $1.35 per sq ft | |
Aside from the kit, ongoing preventive maintenance of already-planned-in-place systems must be done once every six months, with a record of completion. Test the smoke detectors. Empty and refill the water reserves. Document and analyze food ration expiration and replace if necessary. Document insect activity weekly, as well.
Salvage Priorities:
The biggest concern at EverCreate Studio Archival Repository is that fire-retardant storage cabinets are usually small, and we have artwork on canvas that is bigger than a normal-sized fire-retardant cabinet. The high price of a fire-retardant cabinet does not justify the cost when its fire protection rating is only 1 hour.
It is suggested by yours truly that a sheet metal professional build a few cabinets at the same price point as one cabinet marketed for fire protection. With this direction, the sheet metal professional will be able to construct multiple large cabinets to store our prestigious artworks and keep them safe from fire, and install our fire sprinkler system.
Comparative Disaster Plans:
Minnesota State Archive Emergency Plan
EverCreate Studio would incorporate an index similar to the one at the above hyperlink. The concept of 1st-, 2nd-, 3rd-, and so on notifications, and who is to contact whom or wait for instruction, is also a good idea we would like to adopt. It instills a sense of responsibility and serves as a safety net for the law in case an accident may, heaven forbid, occur.
North Carolina Department of Public Safety Emergency Management
We at EverCreate Studio like the idea of the State using its seal on the declaration page, along with the governor's and the Secretary of State's signatures. It makes it seem as if it was notarized, because it was, and that is wholesome because I cannot remember the last time that I heard of something being notarized. Notarization is an essential function in documentation, and sadly, it has been dropped from the digital world. The NC DPS has incorporated tables into their documents along with some color in spots. We love this aspect of their emergency document design because, duh, we are artists. We approve of this form of making documents.
References
Natural Disasters in Minnesota. (n.d.). Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office. Retrieved June 11, 2024, from https://mn.gov/admin/shpo/planning/disaster/risks/
Badger, MN Hurricane Map and Climate Risk Report. (n.d.). RiskFactor.Com. Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://riskfactor.com/
Badger, MN Flood Map and Climate Risk Report. (n.d.). RiskFactor.Com. Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://riskfactor.com/
Badger, MN Wildfire Map and Climate Risk Report. (n.d.). RiskFactor.Com. Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://riskfactor.com/
ROSEAU, MINNESOTA - Climate Summary. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://wrcc.dri.edu/cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?mn7087
The program builds effective teams by defining shared outcomes (belonging, leadership, career readiness) and aligning roles across mentors, library staff, and partner agencies through a simple RACI‑style split: library (coordination, space, materials...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The archival project spreadsheet functions as a lightweight project plan: a work‑breakdown structure (survey, appraisal, description, digitization, metadata QA, ingest, public release) tied to milestones and due dates; role assignments for staff/volu...
Tasks Start Date Days Needed Completion Adjusted Length Cost Hire Archivist 4/1/2024 20 4/29/2024 28 50,000.00 $ Hire Volunteers 4/1/2024 20 4/29/2024 28 Sort Documents 5/1/2024 60 7/24/2024 84 Establish Contacts w/ State Archives 6/10/2024 5 6/17/2024 7 Package and Ship Material to State Archives 7/24/2024 40 9/18/2024 56 5,500.00 $ Sign Deed of Gift (virtually or by fax) 9/18/2024 5 9/25/2024 7 Los Ossos State Park Archive Project Hire Archivist Hire Volunteers Sort Documents Establish Contacts w/ State Archives Package and Ship Material to State Archives Sign Deed of Gift (virtually or by fax) Los Ossos State Park Archive Project
The proposal demonstrates fiscal stewardship by tying a line‑item budget (staff time, mentor stipends, materials, space/equipment, marketing) to mission outcomes and measurable participation targets; it leverages in‑kind contributions and cost‑sharin...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
The finding aid evidences emotional intelligence through reflective notes on arrangement/description choices, acknowledging uncertainty, revising scope statements for clarity, and balancing provenance with patron usability. It models self‑awareness (...
LIS 640-02 Fall 2024
Assignment Template
Make a Finding Aid
Title: Corey Everett's Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework
Scope and Contents: The Collection comprises assignments, project drafts, sketches, final projects, and supplementary materials related to coursework in various foundational and advanced animation classes. It captures the essential skills and concepts taught within the curriculum, as well as the creative processes involved in developing animated works. The materials encompass a diverse range of animation practices, including traditional drawing techniques, character design, storyboarding, and digital animation.
Dates: 10/28/2024
Creator(s): Corey Everett
Biographical or Historical Information:
The Corey Everett Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework Collection offers an in-depth examination of the requirements of the animation program at The Art Institute of Houston, showcasing both personal development and mastery of technical skills throughout the degree. This period (2015-2018) was marked by rapid advances in animation technology, particularly in digital software, virtual production techniques, and 3D modeling, all of which are reflected in these student works.
This Collection encompasses a diverse range of coursework—from introductory exercises and sketches to final-year thesis projects—demonstrating growth in character design, storyboarding, 2D and 3D animation, and visual storytelling. Coursework encompasses both hand-drawn animation techniques and digital software projects, reflecting the hybrid approach to animation education prevalent at the time.
Arrangement Note:
The Animation Undergraduate Degree Coursework Collection is arranged into two primary series based on the academic progression and thematic content of the coursework. Each series is further subdivided into sub-series, reflecting specific courses, projects, and types of materials. This hierarchical arrangement mirrors the educational structure of the animation program, organizing materials to capture both the evolution of skills and the thematic focus across semesters.
The Collection is organized as follows:
Series I: Foundational Coursework (2015)
This series includes materials from introductory courses, focusing on the fundamental skills and principles of animation. Within this series, sub-series are organized by specific topics, such as drawing and illustration basics, character design, and introductory animation techniques. Each sub-series includes a range of exercises, assignments, and project drafts that showcase the development of foundational competencies.
Series II: Advanced Projects and Specialized Coursework (2016-2017)
This series represents the more advanced stages of the program, including coursework from upper-level classes and specialized projects. Sub-series are arranged by project type and specific animation techniques, with folders organized chronologically to reflect the student's progression. This series highlights advanced animation skills, including digital animation techniques, storyboarding, and collaborative projects.
Series III: Final Capstone Project (2018)
Documents the comprehensive final project, including preparatory sketches, drafts, production notes, and final output.
This arrangement enables ease of access, guiding researchers through the coursework chronologically and thematically, thereby providing insights into the student's academic and creative growth throughout the animation program.
Collection Organization
Series I: Foundational Coursework, 2015
Sub-series A: Drawing and Illustration Basics
Sub-series B: Principles of Animation
Series II: Intermediate Projects, 2016-2017
Sub-series A: 2D Animation Projects
Series III: Capstone, 2018
Reflective Statement (750 words)
Archival finding aids are vital tools for creating order and accessibility within vast collections of records. They are designed not just to store information, but to reveal the stories and insights hidden within archives. As I have explored the intricacies of finding aids, I've come to appreciate the remarkable blend of structure, dedication, and expertise required to make archival materials accessible. This specialized skillset has both fascinated me and sparked a desire to deepen my understanding of archival science.
A finding aid serves as a roadmap for an archival Collection, breaking down the Collection into series and subseries, organizing the content into folders, and providing background notes to help researchers understand the context. Dividing collections in this way, our finding aids create an intuitive structure for navigating complex records. This organizational clarity is particularly crucial for researchers who may need to locate specific information within an extensive archive. With a well-designed finding aid, researchers are guided directly to precisely what they need, without having to wade through unrelated materials.
Working with finding aids has also shown me that this work demands a high level of skill and precision that only comes with experience. Organizing a Collection requires understanding both the overarching structure and the fine details within it. It's not just about filing papers in a logical order; it's about understanding the story behind each document and recognizing patterns that will allow others to access the information efficiently. I have realized that becoming skilled in creating finding aids requires a lifelong commitment to learning the art and science of archival organization. Mastery of this process comes only through years of practice and a willingness to adapt to new challenges and continually evolving best practices.
This level of commitment and expertise inspires me. I feel drawn to the idea of building a career around preserving, organizing, and making accessible the vast troves of information stored in archives. Knowing that I could spend my days delving into history, uncovering hidden connections, and making information accessible to others excites me. I want to be part of this specialized field where I can not only develop my organizational skills but also cultivate a sense of historical continuity. I recognize that to reach this level of proficiency, I will need to commit myself to a long path of learning and growth. However, the thought of dedicating my life to a career in archives is both exhilarating and fulfilling.
As I delve further into archival studies, I realize that learning XML is crucial for making archival finding aids accessible in a digital format. The thought of learning XML is both exciting and daunting. On the one hand, XML provides a structured approach to organizing and encoding archival data, transforming it into a format that can be easily shared, searched, and displayed online. This opens up tremendous possibilities for accessibility, as researchers around the world can access digital finding aids and explore archives without visiting in person. However, the complexity of XML presents a steep learning curve.
I believe that if I want a job after graduation, I need to learn XML, and there is no way around it. I hope I get a job. You know, I can write like this because I can sit here and think before typing. I do not speak the same way. Maybe that will change.
The deck is organized for oral delivery with clear signposting (agenda → criteria → practice), short slide text that cues spoken explanation, and examples that anchor definitions of authority, purpose, and format in accessible language (Cambridge Dic...
By: Carlie, Jenna & Corey
In 1967 Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act
Established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, with the goal of providing educational, noncommercial media to the public
Out with cable TV, satellite TV was introduced
1979 – C-Span was founded, broadcasting sessions from the House of Representatives, hearings, and press
conferenes
1989 – CNN became the first live, around the clock news channel
In order to compete with cable news, networks started to feature documentary style programs like 20/20 to give more specific information on a specific topic
1989 – World Wide Web was launched
Organizations, businesses, and individuals started creating their own websites to share info
1994 – CNN and
The Chicago Tribune
developed websites
As internet became a more popular source for news, new platforms emerged that gathered articles from varied news sources into one space
Yahoo
American Online
Print publications started to produce digitally rather than converting print to digital formats
Internet evolved to what it is now, allowing individuals to write and distribute information through websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, and social media
47% of Americans prefer watching the news vs. reading or listening to it
44% of Americans prefer TV vs. 34% choose internet as their viewing platform
63% of Americans who prefer to read the news do so online vs. the 17% that prefer print
Americans younger than 50 prefer the web for news rather than reading, watching and listening
Newspapers and Periodicals that are printed weekly, daily, or monthly
Obtained through paid subscriptions and delivered to a specified location or received via website that can include recorded interviews, live updates, and interactive media
Apps that allow access to major news publishers that are free to download, but require subscription for content
Websites that are typically supported by advertising to offer free access to news information.
Articles may be authored by professional journalists or freelancers
Website may accept contributions from anyone who creates an account and submits an article
May serve as news aggregators which means they pull content from multiple sources across the internet
Include broadcasts, political and cultural commentary, radio shows and podcasts that can be watched on TV or internet
News broadcasts are aired live on both network and cable TV
Recordings can be accessed online
Radio shows are often live, but have paved the way for pre-recorded podcasts
Can be produced daily, weekly, monthly
Provide general, current news info but can also go into greater detail on a particular topic such as politics, business or the financial markets
News databases offer access to multiple news publications in one source
Designed for libraries
Subscription based
Librarians and patrons can search by keyword or construct advanced searches by publication, date, geographic location, and other criteria to find current and historical news
Fake news is used to describe information that is intentionally misleading
It is often created due to political interests to disrupt elections and public policy issues
Also used to generate money
Includes false information with the intention of influence a groups of people
Propaganda
Manipulative and persuasive
Oftentimes fake news has an outlandish headline that encourage readers to click on the article
General tips when determining the validity of a source: look at the website address, check the date of the article, read the "about us" page, look at multiple sources, fact-check, use a reverse image search machine
Three things a librarian should consider when evaluating a news source: format, authority, purpose
Figure 23.1
Libraries may subscribe to a variety of print newspapers and magazines for patrons who would like to read current news
Browse previous stories
Not always a print equivalent; librarians much search the internet on behalf of the patrons
Breaking news if found primarily on the internet
News sources are important to the public because…
Essential to functioning democracy – informs citizens of what is happening on a local, national, and international level
Dissemination of current events, political issues, and public affairs
Allows citizens the ability to make informed opinions and take action through consumer choices, voting, volunteering, etc.
When providing new sources, librarians should consider the origins of the source
Anyone can post anything on the internet at any time
Evaluate a sources reputation
Examine the authors expertise on the subject that is being reported
Every news piece has its own objective
Inform vs. Persuade
Five types of sources
News story -
reports the facts
Feature - provide greater analysis than a news story
Opinion piece -
provides insight for an individual or group’s perspective
Editorial -
written on behalf of a publishing house or agency
Adverstisement
– reporting on a topic and provide a solution or service
Most reputable news publication intent to provide accurate and objective coverage of an event
Hire professional journalists
Every journalist has a
differnet
way of obtaining their
informaiton
Establish trustworthiness through transparency
Primary vs. Secondary sources
Primary: reports, letter, e-mails, speeches, interviews, audio or video footage, official records, documents, receipts, reports, statistics, artifacts
Secondary: commentaries, critiques, textbooks, journals, histories
Being aware of
confirmatin
bias
"the tendency to seek out or trust sources and articles that confirm what an individual already believes to be true"
Currency
Is defined as...
Knowing the community for which subjects will be in collection.
Understanding the media of choice by your
patrons , specifically.
Example... Magazines 1st month in
collection is for in library use only and
developing digital access would provide
broader selection to a community that
prefers magazines.
(Wong and Sanders, 2020, p.496)
Current News
Historical Newspapers
Newspaper Indexes
Broadcasts and Transcripts
Images
Fact-Check Websites
News Sources for Children
Text book website examples...
Google News
User friendly interface of the platform
Will automatically generate personalized news to your search history and reading habits if an account is made.
Newsbank
3,000 sources on current and recent news for America
Also has 528 million current and archived articles from 172 countries.
Ebsco
Newspaper Source Plus
28 million articles from 1500 newspapers
Has an image collection as well
ProQuest Recent Newspapers
Digital editions of news from 2000's until current
Over 50 different of the most requested newspapers
Take aways are...
Current news can be found in newspapers, magazines, wire feeds, websites, and podcasts.
Hot vocabulary...
Newswire - fresh news that is sold, or press released to the news agency for distribution to the public.
Downsides...
Every website upsells another version of access to more information.
Historical Newspapers
Textbook Examples...
Historical Newspapers by ProQuest
Upsells entire database vs regional collections or specific titles
Google Newspaper Archive
One million scanned historical newspapers from 2,000 global newspapers
Project was abandoned, hard to read text, but is free
Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers, The Library of Congress
Selections of newspapers from 1789 to 1963
Articles can be downloaded as well
All services are free
Preserved articles from history in either older editions of existing publications or publications that no longer exist.
Are...
Take aways...
Directory of historical articles and will patch a person over to the source of the article found.
Examples from the textbook...
Elephind
– Free to use and has links to 3 million newspapers
International Coalition on Newspapers (ICON)
Genealogy websites, such as Ancestory.com may have newspaper indexes
The Library of Congress's Chronicling America
Reliable sources from the textbook...
Apnews.com - Which is The Associated Press's AP Archive
Vanderbilt Television New Archive – Newscasts from ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and Fox dating back from 1968 until present.
American Archive of Public Media
C-SPAN Video Library
Transcripts...
Nexis Uni
Factiva
NewsBank
Where do you find images related to news?
Curated Albums from news stories are available at sites like Reuters, BBS News, and New York Times.
Caution... News sources typically do not allow free use of their images.
Images for purchase can be found...
Getty Images
AP Images
News sources are important to library patrons because…
To stay informed
Trying to find more information on a topic
Within the library, both patrons and reference librarians can access several readily available sources that aren’t as easily accessible to the general public
Print/online publications
Live broadcasts
Podcasts
Social media
Credible fact-check resources should be unbiased and not beholden to any financial institution.
...Beholden means: Feeling you have a duty to someone because they have done something for you. (
Beholden
, 2024)
For Political news:
Politifact.com
Factcheck.org
For climate scientists:
Climatefeedback.org
For Multi-general sites:
Snopes.com
Allsides.com
What about the children?
Learning to detect misinformation along with other critical thinking skills to debunk
fakenews
.
Checkology.org
Example reliable news websites for children:
Tweentribune.com
Dogonews.com
Timeforkids.com
Stay current
Teach your patrons how to find reliable sources
You, as the reference librarian, are always a reliable resource
Cambridge Free English Dictionary and Thesaurus.
(2024).
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/
Unsplash
. (n.d.).
Beautiful Free Images & Pictures |
Unsplash
. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from
https://unsplash.com/
Wong, M. A., & Saunders, L. (2020).
Reference and information services: An Introduction
(6th ed.). Libraries Unlimited.
Not all news sources are created equally
Going beyond providing facts, sources can persuade the reader into a certain belief, idea or action
Not all sources are always accurate. It can be outdated or factually untrue due to articles being accidentally or purposefully published.
As a librarian, it is important to be able to understand the different types of news sources and how to properly evaluate them in order to provide credible information to patrons.
News dissemination
Before the written word was prevalent stories were passed by…
Word of mouth
Inscribed on stone, clay papyrus
Common folk were not always literate, it was mainly the elite so information and news was largely created, controlled and contained by those in political or religious authority.
The invention of the modern printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15
th
century is what made it possible for information to be spread to the masses
Improvement of printing techniques
Production because more affordable
Literacy spread
Different formats were created for sharing information
Subscription services to receive weekly newsletters about politics, government, and war
Pamphlets that detailed wars in surrounding countries were printed in response to public interest
It wasn’t until the 19
th
century that newspapers became a staple of information dissemination
In 1971 the 1
st
Amendment which guarantees freedom of speech, and press, became part of the Bill of Rights
Production costs still limited newspaper circulation to the elite
Benjamin Day
In 1833, Day created
The Sun
newspaper which focused on happenings, police reports, and local coverage to attract and engage readers
Could print 18,000 copies an hour
Sold newspaper space to businesses who wanted to advertise
Advertisement allowed him to gain revenue and sell the newspaper for a penny to make it more affordable for common folk
Led to newspapers all over the country
Technological advances that impacted news coverage and access:
Samuel Morse invented the telegraph, allowing newspapers to receive current news briefs from around the world
Mid 20
th
century brought radio and television to the public
Watchers/listeners were bombarded with advertisements in a new way
Radio & TV didn’t require subscriptions like the newspaper, so to pay for programming, air-time was purchased by advertisers and commercials were developed
During WWII news programs became a regular part of the broadcasting schedule
CBS and NBC had two 15 minute programs at 8pm on certain days of the week
In 1948, TV’s were more prominent in American homes; therefore, news became a nightly program
In 1963 CBS and NBC expanded from 15mins to 30mins, in 1967 ABC followed suit
The prevalence of news outlets allowed Americans to rely on them for information (presidential elections, assassination of John F. Kennedy, Vietnam War, etc.)
The DPLA evaluation demonstrates professional written communication through a concise structure (purpose → criteria → findings → recommendations), precise terminology for aggregation and interoperability (OAI‑PMH, item vs. Collection records, rights ...
Evaluation of the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)
Corey Adam Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 644-01 Digital Libraries (FA25)
Dr. Fatih Oguz
September 3, 2025
This paper reviews the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA), a project started in 2013 that aims to make cultural heritage more accessible to everyone. The DPLA brings together collections from libraries, archives, and museums across the United States into one open, free online platform. Using Marchionini and Fox's (1999) framework, the paper examines how the DPLA fosters community, offers valuable content and services, and leverages modern technology. The evaluation highlights how its collaborative approach, growing network of hubs, diverse collections, educational offerings, and open technological setup have made a real difference for libraries, researchers, and the general public. Overall, the DPLA stands out as a shining example of how large digital libraries can effectively serve society today.
The Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) was launched in 2013 with a heartfelt mission: to make the nation's rich cultural heritage freely accessible to everyone. It was born out of a spirit of collaboration, bringing together libraries, universities, and foundations, with key support from organizations like the Sloan and Knight foundations (Palfrey, 2013). The DPLA is governed by a dedicated nonprofit based in Boston that works through a network of local hubs across the country. It connects a diverse community of users—from curious scholars and passionate educators to genealogy enthusiasts and everyday explorers (Cohen, 2014).
DPLA brings together metadata from over 1,600 partner institutions, including well-known organizations like the Smithsonian, the National Archives, and the Library of Congress (Gore, Della Bitta, & Cohen, 2017). It offers a diverse array of materials, including books, photographs, maps, oral histories, audiovisual content, and more (Ferington, n.d.). Instead of hosting the actual digital objects, DPLA provides metadata and thumbnail images that link directly to the source institutions. This approach facilitates seamless access to scattered physical and digital collections from various hubs, each managing its own Collection policies. By 2017, the DPLA's Collection had grown to over 15 million items, demonstrating the scalability and effectiveness of this model (Gore et al., 2017).
DPLA offers a free, easy-to-access online platform where users can browse and search a vast Collection of digital content. Whether you are looking for specific items or just exploring, you can use keywords, filters, interactive maps, and timelines to find what interests you (Cohen, 2014). Educators and students benefit from specially curated primary source collections and exhibitions that make learning more engaging (Ferington, n.d.). One of the great strengths of DPLA is that its metadata is indexed by search engines, making it easier for people to discover content through Google and other search tools. Collaborations with digital libraries, such as HathiTrust and Europeana, help extend its reach, bringing a wide range of resources into the spotlight. Overall, the DPLA serves a diverse community—comprising casual learners, teachers, and researchers—by making historical and cultural treasures accessible to all.
DPLA's technology is built on open-source software, emphasizing seamless sharing and compatibility. It gathers metadata primarily through the Open Archives Initiative Protocol, aligning it with widely used standards such as Dublin Core. Developers can also access an open API to create apps and integrate other systems, making it flexible and user-friendly. The platform is designed with a global perspective, aligning with Europe's Europeana to promote cultural exchange worldwide. This open and adaptable setup reflects best practices in digital libraries, supporting ongoing innovation and sustainability.
The Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) effectively exemplifies the idea that digital. libraries are more than just collections of data—they are vibrant, sociotechnical communities. With its collaborative spirit, diverse array of content, and robust technological backbone, DPLA enables people to discover, access, and preserve information on a grand scale. Rather than replacing traditional libraries, it works alongside them, enriching their mission and making sure that America's rich cultural heritage remains accessible to everyone in our digital age.
Cohen, D. (2014, July 14). The Digital Public Library of America: Collaboration, content, and technology at scale. EDUCAUSE Review. https://er.educause.edu/articles/2014/7/the-digital-public-library-of-america-collaboration-content-and-technology-at-scale
Ferington, E. (n.d.). America’s digital library. National Endowment for the Humanities. https://www.neh.gov/project/americas-digital-library
Gore, E., Della Bitta, M., & Cohen, D. (2017). The Digital Public Library of America and a national digital platform. D-Lib Magazine, 23(5/6). https://doi.org/10.1045/may2017-gore
Palfrey, J. (2013, January 3). What the DPLA can mean for libraries. Library Journal. https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/what-the-dpla-can-mean-for-libraries
The evaluation reflection models internal collaboration by channeling audience and mentor feedback into shared improvements: staff and facilitators use post‑session survey themes (extend time, pace visuals, add team challenges) to adjust roles, sessi...
[Figure]Presenting the first ten minutes of the Tahoe City Youth Leadership program and gathering feedback gave me the chance to step back and really take in how the audience connected to it. Looking at the input, specific themes emerged right away: people were genuinely excited about the hands-on activities, appreciated the mentorship connections, and wanted even more time with the program. The evaluation forms showed that leadership confidence and career-readiness skills improved after the session, and the overall tone of the responses was positive and encouraging.
Figure 1: Confidence in leadership abilities before the program.
Several strengths stood out clearly from the feedback. The tin foil boats activity was a favorite, with multiple participants naming it as the highlight. It seems that the ability to build, test, and compete in a simple, playful challenge helped people connect with the idea of leadership. The mentorship sessions and community service projects also left a strong impression, suggesting that when participants could see leadership and civic engagement in action, it clicked more deeply. It was encouraging to see that the creative delivery of the presentation was called out, showing that a bit of energy and storytelling can go a long way toward making a program feel alive.
[Figure]
Figure 2: Activities participated in during the program.
[Figure]Of course, no program is perfect, and the feedback pointed out some areas where I could improve. One repeated suggestion was that people wanted more—more time with the activities, and more sessions overall. A couple of evaluations mentioned that three sessions felt like just a taste. That made me realize that while the content was engaging, the pacing might have been too tight. Some participants also suggested adding more visuals. This feedback was a little frustrating, especially given the time and effort it took to create the Bauhaus-inspired posters using AI tools and real design knowledge. Creating more visuals would have required days, if not weeks, and that reality often goes unseen by audiences. Still, the takeaway is that future presentations might benefit from pacing visual content a bit slower to allow participants time to absorb it fully.
Figure 3: Favorite parts of the program.
[Figure]Reading through the feedback, I started thinking differently about what "success" looks like. It's not just about covering content; it's about leaving people wanting to keep going. That's a good problem to have, but it's also a reminder that good programming needs room to breathe. If I had the chance to rerun this program, I'd plan for longer sessions or a multi-week series. I'd also consider adding more physical, team-based challenges to give participants even more opportunities to engage with leadership skills firsthand.
Figure 4: Likelihood of future civic engagement.
Personally, presenting in a virtual session where most cameras were off added another layer of challenge. It wasn't easy to gauge reactions in real-time, and I had to rely on intuition and flow rather than visible engagement. I could feel moments of tension, like when participants were still trying to read a poster as I moved to the next one. Navigating that blind spot taught me a lot about pacing and about giving people space to catch up. This experience definitely made me realize how important it is to read the room, even when you can't see the room.
Overall, the process of collecting feedback and reflecting on it has made me feel more confident not just in my ability to plan a program, but also in my ability to grow and adapt it. Programs aren't static—they live and breathe right along with the people they serve. That's something I'll carry with me into every future library program I design.
[Figure]
Figure 5: Willingness to recommend the program to a friend.
Collaboration is formalized through a partner network with defined roles and shared goals: Community Services | Placer County (referrals, wraparound support), Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District (space, co‑facilitation, youth e...
Program Proposal: Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro LIS 655 The Public Library
Dr. Kayli Reyna March 25th, 2025
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this program is to provide structured leadership development, civic engagement training, and career readiness support for high school students and young adults in Tahoe City. Many young residents face barriers to professional growth due to limited access to higher education and a lack of local mentorship and civic involvement opportunities (Census Reporter, n.d.; Demographics, n.d.). This initiative will offer workshops focused on leadership training, community service learning, career exploration, and multicultural programming. The program aligns with Tahoe City's community needs by addressing gaps in youth engagement and preparing the next generation of community leaders. It also supports the Tahoe City Library's mission to provide inclusive educational opportunities and community enrichment resources for all residents (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
Purpose Objectives/Outcomes
The primary objectives of the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative are as follows:
Target Audience
The target audience for this program is high school students and young adults in Tahoe City, aged approximately 14 to 22. This group has been identified through local assessments as lacking consistent access to leadership training, civic engagement pathways, and career development resources (Demographics, n.d.; Census Reporter, n.d.). Additionally, Tahoe City's seasonal economy often creates instability for working youth. The program will prioritize outreach to youth from low-income, multilingual, and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from seasonal worker families, to ensure equitable access to development opportunities (Sierra Community House, n.d.).
Budget Overview
The estimated budget for the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative is as follows:
This budget is essential to ensure accessibility for all youth participants and provide a high-quality learning experience. Funding will be pursued through county grants, nonprofit sponsors, and local business partnerships (Community Services | Placer County, CA, n.d.).
General Marketing Plan
To promote the Youth Leadership and Community Engagement Initiative, the following strategies will be employed:
Timeline
The program will be implemented over 7 months. The timeline is as follows:
Pertinent Documents
The following materials will be needed for the successful implementation of the program:
Potential Partners
The following community organizations will collaborate on this initiative:
Room Layout
The program will be delivered in a flexible space within the Tahoe City Library or Tahoe City Community Center:
Time Needed
The total time commitment for planning and delivering the program is as follows:
Program Evaluation
The success of the program will be evaluated through the following methods:
References
Census Reporter. (n.d.). Census profile: Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://censusreporter.org/profiles/16000US0676015-sunnyside-tahoe-city-ca/
Community Services | Placer County, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.placer.ca.gov/8164/Community-Services
Demographics. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tahoeopendata.org/pages/demographics
North Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). SOS Outreach. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sosoutreach.org/locations/north-lake-tahoe/
Recreation Department | Tahoe City Public Utility District. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.tcpud.org/departments/recreation
Sierra Community House. (n.d.). Serving North Lake Tahoe & Truckee. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://sierracommunityhouse.org/
Arclyst — AI-Powered Personal Collections, Metadata & Privacy
MLIS Capstone Option B Proposal
Project Title: EverCreate Metadata App: A Mobile Tool for Personal Knowledge Organization
Student Name: Corey Everett
Many individuals struggle to manage and locate personal belongings scattered across various home storage spaces, such as garages, basements, attics, or sheds, unlike libraries and archives, which use structured metadata to catalog collections. Private individuals lack accessible tools to describe, organize, and retrieve their items.
From an LIS perspective, this represents a critical problem: the lack of user-friendly, standards-based tools for creating and organizing personal metadata. This project addresses that gap by designing a mobile app that applies the Dublin Core Simple metadata schema in a context familiar to the average person. An e-commerce-style interface that turns their clutter into an organized digital inventory.
This editorial explores the intersection of AI and metadata creation, highlighting ethical challenges and new opportunities for LIS professionals. It supports the use of AI-assisted metadata generation in personal tools like the proposed app.
Though not focused on LIS metadata, Mann’s work provides the philosophical foundation for creating tools that empower users. The app becomes a transformative tool by enabling people to reclaim control over their possessions and personal space.
Brilmyer explores the tension between traditional archival practices and the demand for shareable, interoperable metadata. This supports the app’s use of Dublin Core as an accessible but standards-compliant framework.
Matienzo offers a roadmap for metadata planning and scalability in digital environments. This article directly informs the app’s growth plan. From Dublin Core to more advanced schemas like MODS and VRA Core will be the path for the app if time allows.
To better understand the problem, I drew on coursework in metadata and personal knowledge management, consulted peers and potential users, and researched app-building tools like Glide and Thunkable. I also tested no-code prototypes and evaluated design patterns based on e-commerce platforms. Informal interviews with friends and community members confirmed that users often misplace or forget owned items, indicating a strong need for item-level organization at home.
Stakeholders Consulted:
- Community members and peers with diverse storage needs
- LIS professionals and faculty for feasibility input
- No-code and app development communities for tool evaluation
As this is a self-initiated project, the 'institution' is the digital app itself—designed as a prototype LIS environment. Work already completed includes:
- Defined metadata fields based on Dublin Core Simple
- UI design that mimics an e-commerce storefront
- Logic rules for grouping items by subject, type, or creator
- A roadmap for metadata export (CSV/XML) and AI enhancement using photo recognition APIs
Institution: EverCreate Metadata App
A mobile application serving as a metadata management system for personal storage collections. It aims to bring archival logic and information organization to the level of individual users.
Site Supervisor (Tentative):
- Dr. Fatih Oguz (preferred)
Weeks 1–2: Choose app platform; define metadata structure (Dublin Core)
Weeks 3–4: Build UI; enable photo capture and metadata entry
Weeks 5–6: Implement display logic for organized item cards
Weeks 7–8: Group items using controlled vocabularies (e.g., tools, kitchen)
Weeks 9–10: Test 30-item demo Collection; simulate user browsing
Weeks 11–12: Add CSV/XML export; verify Dublin Core alignment
Weeks 13–14: Optional AI metadata generation via Google Vision or Clarifai
Week 15: Prepare documentation and evaluation metrics
Week 16: Submit final app + practicum paper; share app with reviewers
Benchmarks:
- Week 4: Metadata system and entry UI completed
- Week 8: Browsable, organized item cards implemented
- Week 12: Export and optional AI features working
- Week 16: Final app submitted for evaluation
Evaluation will be based on:
- Usability: Can users easily add, view, and retrieve information about items?
- Metadata Quality: Are fields filled out consistently and usefully?
- Organization: Does auto-grouping logic improve understanding of stored possessions?
- Export Functionality: Can users generate structured outputs (CSV or XML)?
Assessment tools:
- User feedback forms
- Test dataset evaluation
- Screenshots and sample exports
This project aligns with the following learning outcomes:
- Information Organization: Applying metadata standards in digital environments
- Technology Integration: Using emerging tools (AI, mobile apps) to improve information access
- User Needs Assessment: Designing interfaces and logic based on user research
- Professional Practice: Translating LIS theory into a practical tool that could be shared publicly
To be determined (awaiting response from Dr. Oguz; Dr. Post as backup)
Name: Dr. Fatih Oguz
Email: F_OGUZ@uncg.edu
Institution: University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
[Figure]
Why?
[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space to emphasize a key point. To place this text box anywhere on the page, just drag it.]
Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
[Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure]
Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
[Figure]
Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
[Figure]
Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
[Figure]
Why?
[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space to emphasize a key point. To place this text box anywhere on the page, just drag it.]
Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
[Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure]
Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
[Figure]
Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
[Figure]
Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
Corey Everett
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
LIS 640-02 Information Organization / Access
Dr. Colin Post
December 9th, 2024
The Smithsonian is a renowned institution. I set out to explore and analyze its catalogue system. During my navigation of their database, I discovered the Open Access Initiative, which became the focal point of this research paper. My exploration has uncovered some intriguing insights, and if you follow along, this analysis might prove both informative and thought-provoking.
It is well-known that the Hope Diamond is part of the Smithsonian's Collection. However, when I searched for it on the Open Access platform, I found it was not included. Despite this, it can still be seen through other areas of the Smithsonian's website. Additionally, I conducted controlled searches for misspelled variations of 'The Hope Diamond,' which yielded no results. These discrepancies raised some concerns, which I will address in the following discussion.
The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846, is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Its mission is to "increase and diffuse knowledge" (Institution, n.d.) by preserving and sharing cultural and scientific heritage. The Smithsonian Open Access Initiative, launched in February 2020, embodies this mission by providing free, public access to millions of digital assets, spanning art, history, culture, and science. This initiative aims to democratize access to the institution's vast collections, fostering innovation and global collaboration.
The initiative provides access to over 4.5 million digital resources, including high-resolution images, 3D models, audio, video, and datasets. All resources are released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, enabling unrestricted use for any purpose. Metadata for each item includes detailed descriptions, creator information, and thematic tags, ensuring resources are discoverable and usable. (Open Access at the Smithsonian, n.d.)
The initiative is designed for a broad audience, including researchers, educators, students, and creative professionals. Typical applications include academic research, curriculum development, artistic projects, and technological innovations like virtual reality and machine learning. By removing barriers to access, the initiative supports knowledge creation and dissemination across disciplines.
In addition to providing metadata for millions of resources, the Smithsonian Open Access Initiative can benefit from established metadata frameworks, such as Resource Description and Access (RDA) and the IFLA Library Reference Model. These frameworks prioritize user-centered design by aligning metadata creation with tasks such as finding, identifying, selecting, and obtaining resources, emphasizing their relevance to cultural heritage platforms (Riva, 2017).
RDA, as a modern cataloging standard, builds upon traditional practices by emphasizing the compatibility of linked data and metadata interoperability. This aligns well with the Smithsonian's Open Access goals of enhancing data discoverability across platforms. Specifically, RDA introduces elements such as relationships between resources, which can help users navigate collections more intuitively (Seikel & Steele, 2011). However, the Smithsonian's current metadata format, which lacks features such as RDF or JSON, limits its potential for achieving full interoperability.
The IFLA Library Reference Model provides a conceptual framework that integrates tasks essential for user-centered access, such as discovery and engagement. This model emphasizes the significance of structured metadata in bridging the gap between technical data management and user-friendly interfaces (Riva, 2017). By adopting elements of these frameworks, the Smithsonian could significantly improve its metadata organization, enabling seamless discovery and contextual navigation for both casual and research-oriented users.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform serves as a valuable entry point for accessing digitized resources; however, it is not a definitive or centralized repository for all Smithsonian collections. Users need to be aware of this distinction to navigate the Smithsonian's digital ecosystem effectively.
Each type of resource, whether photographs, manuscripts, or 3D models, may be housed on different specialized platforms (e.g., Smithsonian Collections Search Center, Smithsonian Libraries, or 3D Digitization). This decentralized structure means that users often have to switch between platforms to find specific materials.
This highlights the importance of user education, ensuring that users understand that Open Access is a gateway, not the entirety of Smithsonian resources. More explicit cross-platform linking, standardized metadata, or a unified search system could enhance the experience. However, for now, users must know where to look based on the type of material they seek.
- Find: How searchable is the Collection (e.g., by keyword, category, or tags)? Test search examples and results.
In the Identify stage of the five essential user tasks, users aim to locate specific items or information within a catalogue. For the Smithsonian Open Access system, this task is hindered by metadata and controlled vocabularies that prioritize technical precision over user-friendliness. The catalogue often relies on rigid classifications and terms unfamiliar to casual users, making it challenging to navigate without prior knowledge of the system's structure. While researchers may benefit from standardized metadata, such as funder IDs and ORCIDs, general users often struggle with natural-language searches and intuitive filtering. To improve, the system could integrate user-friendly synonyms, natural language processing, and more dynamic search suggestions to better align with users' natural behaviors and help them efficiently identify desired content. (Dikow et al., 2023)
Implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) into the Smithsonian Open Access catalogue can bridge the gap in user discernment by enabling the system to interpret and adapt to natural-language queries. NLP algorithms could match user input, such as conversational phrases or misspelled terms, to standardized controlled vocabularies, ensuring more relevant results. Features such as autocomplete, query suggestions, and semantic understanding would help users find items even when they lack precise terminology. Additionally, NLP could analyze intent and context, refining search results dynamically to prioritize items most likely to meet the user's needs. This integration would make the catalogue far more intuitive and accessible, catering to both casual users and researchers alike.
The filtering and sorting options on the Smithsonian Open Access platform are functional but could be improved. While basic filters, such as item type and relevance sorting, are helpful, they often rely on technical metadata and controlled vocabularies that can confuse casual users. The fragmented structure across platforms and inadequate guidance for new users make it difficult to navigate effectively. Enhancing these tools with intuitive filters, dynamic sorting options, and a unified search interface would significantly improve usability.
[Figure]
Why?
[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space to emphasize a key point. To place this text box anywhere on the page, just drag it.]
Figure 1. Proof of 6,795 fraudulent search yields
Downloading files from the Smithsonian Open Access platform is straightforward, making it easy for users to access the resources they find. However, the load times to reach the actual asset can be slow. For photographs, the available download formats include high-resolution JPEGs, thumbnail images, and a metadata file. The metadata is provided in plain text format, rather than a coding language. For 3D models, formats include OBJ, GLB, GLTF, and Draco, providing flexibility tailored to the user's specific needs.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform offers a wealth of high-quality resources, from photographs to 3D models, supported by detailed metadata that provides valuable context for researchers and creatives. It excels in content richness and ease of access, with straightforward download options and versatile file formats. However, it faces usability challenges, including slow load times, fragmented systems that require navigation across multiple platforms, and limited tools for serendipitous discovery. The lack of advanced features, like recommendation algorithms or thematic groupings, makes exploration overly reliant on precise searches.
Improving discovery tools, such as implementing "You May Also Like" (recommendation algorithm) features or dynamically linking related items, could significantly enhance user engagement. However, privacy concerns may arise if the algorithm is not thoroughly evaluated before implementation.
First and foremost, the Open Access Initiative is not featured in the Smithsonian's main navigation bar, nor is there a direct link to it on the homepage. For a user unfamiliar with its existence, discovering it would require navigating to the si.edu/collections page and finding a path to the initiative from there. This lack of visibility suggests that the initiative is not prominently emphasized, despite being built on a wealth of resources and efforts that underpin its significance.
It is easy to admire the Smithsonian's Open Access initiative, with its fanfare of making millions of artifacts, images, and research accessible to the public through a sleek online platform. The move is heralded as a groundbreaking step toward democratizing knowledge and bringing cultural treasures into the digital age. However, peel back the celebratory veneer, and you will see this was not entirely a philanthropic gesture—it was a response to federal mandates. The 2013 OSTP memo required all federally funded entities to make their resources accessible, essentially nudging the Smithsonian to comply with rules it was obligated to follow. While the execution is commendable, the underlying reality is less altruistic and more bureaucratic: the Smithsonian was doing what it was told, not purely what it chose.
Adding NLP capabilities to the Smithsonian Open Access platform is not just a technical enhancement—it is a crucial step in bridging the gap between rigid metadata structures and user-friendly search functionality. As previously discussed, NLP can interpret natural language queries, offer intelligent suggestions, and seamlessly connect user input to controlled vocabularies. This approach would transform the search experience, making it intuitive and accessible for all users, from casual visitors to researchers. By focusing on how users naturally search and think, NLP can help align the platform's structure with its mission to democratize access to cultural and historical resources. Ultimately, integrating NLP would ensure the platform fulfills its potential as a truly open and user-centered resource.
When working with CC0-licensed materials, such as those available on the Smithsonian Open Access platform, it is important to use them ethically and responsibly. While the CC0 license legally allows unrestricted use without attribution, crediting creators or institutions, such as the Smithsonian, acknowledges the significant effort involved in preserving and digitizing these works. Additionally, users should be mindful of cultural sensitivity, ensuring that materials with cultural or historical significance are used respectfully and appropriately. Misrepresentation or harmful uses, such as modifying works in ways that distort their meaning or perpetuate misinformation, should be avoided. However, a critical consideration is the potential confusion between CC0-licensed materials and other works on Smithsonian platforms that are not CC0-licensed. Users may mistakenly assume all items are free for unrestricted use, risking unintentional misuse of protected content. To prevent this, users should verify licensing terms for each item and practice transparency and respect in their usage to maintain the integrity and ethos of open access.
The Smithsonian Open Access platform showcases the institution's commitment to making its extensive cultural and scientific collections accessible to the public. However, this analysis reveals several challenges that limit its usability and potential. While the platform excels in offering diverse, high-quality resources in accessible formats, it falls short in user navigation and discovery tools. The lack of advanced features, such as recommendation algorithms or dynamic filtering, combined with a fragmented system structure, creates barriers for both casual and professional users. Additionally, while ethical considerations surrounding CC0 licensing are addressed, users may still encounter confusion regarding non-CC0 materials across other Smithsonian platforms.
To enhance its role in cultural heritage and information organization, the Smithsonian Open Access platform would benefit from integrating natural language processing (NLP) tools, improving metadata presentation, and streamlining cross-platform navigation. These upgrades could transform it into a genuinely open and intuitive resource, fostering greater engagement and innovation among its diverse audience. Ultimately, addressing these limitations aligns with the platform's mission to advance knowledge and make it accessible to all.
Dikow, R. B., DiPietro, C., Trizna, M. G., BredenbeckCorp, H., Bursell, M. G., Ekwealor, J. T. B., Hodel, R. G. J., Lopez, N., Mattingly, W. J. B., Munro, J., Naples, R. M., Oubre, C., Robarge, D., Snyder, S., Spillane, J. L., Tomerlin, M. J., Villanueva, L. J., & White, A. E. (2023). Developing responsible AI practices at the Smithsonian Institution. Research Ideas and Outcomes, 9, e113334. https://doi.org/10.3897/rio.9.e113334
Peet, L. (2016). Industry: CHORUS Inks Agreement with Federal Agencies. Library Journal, 141(3), 22-n/a. https://login.libproxy.uncg.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/industry-chorus-inks-agreement-with-federal/docview/1762716141/se-2
What Is NLP (Natural Language Processing)? | IBM. (2021, September 23). https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-language-processing
Institution, S. (n.d.). Open Access FAQ. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved December 9, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/openaccess/faq
Riva, P. (2017). IFLA Library Reference Model: A conceptual model for bibliographic information. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
Seikel, M., & Steele, T. (2011). How MARC has changed: The history of the format and its forthcoming relationship to RDA. Technical Services Quarterly, 28(3), 322–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317131.2011.574519.
Everett, C. (2024). Annotated screenshot of Smithsonian Open Access platform search results for “photographs”, Figures 1-4. Retrieved from https://si.edu/openaccess
[Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure][Figure]
Figure 2: limiting their mission statement of “diffusion of knowledge” by withholding certain items from open access.
[Figure]
Misspelled word
Figure 3: Lacks error tolerance, low fault tolerance, and poor user error recovery.
[Figure]
Figure 4: The Hope Diamond yielded good search results, but under no CC0. However, since the open-access initiative is a Collection, users may be confused about exactly what CC0 is, or, worse yet, the copyright owners of the digitized media may be at risk of harm.
Corey Everett
Muskegon, Michigan, United States | 231-624-3500 | coreyaeverett@gmail.com
Portfolio: portfolium.com/caeverett | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/corey-everett-b3851b68/ | YouTube: @EverCreate Studio
Target Role: Metadata & Digital Collections Librarian / Specialist
Emerging library and information professional with a strong background in metadata, digital preservation, and multimedia asset management, currently completing an MLIS with a focus on metadata management, archival preservation, and digital libraries. Experienced in designing custom metadata schemas, crosswalking to standards such as Dublin Core, MODS, and VRA Core, and implementing descriptive and structural metadata for digital collections in Omeka and other systems. Brings 10+ years of experience organizing and archiving complex 3D, animation, and media assets for studios and industry partners, including NASA and Polaris. Passionate about connecting users with well-structured digital collections and building sustainable, standards-based workflows for libraries and archives.
Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS), Expected December 2025
University of North Carolina at Greensboro – School of Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Media Arts & Animation, 2018
Art Institute of Houston
Library Assistant – EDMC / Art Institute Library
2016 – 2018 | Houston, TX
- Assisted students, faculty, alumni, and visitors in locating and checking out materials organized using the Library of Congress Classification system.
- Provided basic reference and technology help, including computer navigation, printing support, and facility tours.
- Helped coordinate workshops, book readings, and informational programs; served as acting librarian with a co-worker when the head librarian was absent.
Graduate Projects – Digital Collections & Metadata (UNC Greensboro)
2024 – 2025 | Remote / Greensboro, NC
- Created detailed metadata records for historical woodcut prints using a custom schema combining MODS and VRA Core.
- Crosswalked rich local metadata into Dublin Core Simple for publication in Omeka, analyzing impacts on description and interoperability.
- Evaluated Smithsonian Open Access and the Digital Public Library of America with respect to metadata quality, user tasks, and open licensing.
Graduate Projects – Archival Accession & Disaster Planning
2024 | Badger, MN / Remote
- Conducted condition reporting and accession documentation for a small personal Collection (books, instruments, media).
- Designed a disaster plan and risk analysis for a small studio repository, evaluating local hazards and salvage priorities.
Art Director – EverCreate Studio
2015 – Present | Muskegon, MI / Remote
- Create and direct original animation projects and client work from concept through final delivery.
- Curate, name, and archive 2D/3D assets and project files using consistent folder structures and descriptive metadata.
- Produce documentation, training materials, and storyboards to support collaborators and clients.
Robot Editor – Polaris Inc.
July 2021 – March 2024 | Roseau, MN
- Edited and optimized robotic animations and simulations, integrating 3D assets into standardized pipelines.
- Organized and maintained a digital archive of 3D models and animation files to support engineering and design teams.
3D Modeling Intern – NASA Johnson Space Center
2016 | Houston, TX
- Built real-world scale 3D models in MODO following NASA specifications and naming conventions.
- Applied structured metadata and documentation to 3D assets to support research and visualization teams.
Earlier Roles (selected)
Ultimate Staffing – Data Entry Clerk; Amway – Independent Business Owner; general laborer and welding/fabrication roles (2001–2013), developing strong attention to detail, data accuracy, and reliability.
December 2, 2025
Hiring Committee
Walt Disney Animation Studios – Animation Research Library
Burbank, CA
Dear Members of the Hiring Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Digital Archivist position with the Animation Research Library at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank. I am currently completing my Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, with a focus on metadata, digital libraries, and archival preservation, and I am excited about the opportunity to support the long-term care and accessibility of Walt Disney Animation’s born-digital artwork.
Through my MLIS program, I have gained extensive experience in designing and applying metadata structures for digital collections. In a recent project, I developed a custom metadata schema for historical prints that combined MODS and VRA Core, created an application profile, and then crosswalked those records into Dublin Core Simple for an Omeka-based repository. This work required me to define element sets, establish controlled vocabularies, and make careful decisions about which fields were essential for discovery versus long-term preservation—closely mirroring your need for consistent metadata conventions, authority records, and thesauri that support both current production workflows and archival use.
My professional background in animation and 3D content gives me hands-on familiarity with the kinds of digital assets your team manages. As Art Director of EverCreate Studio and a former Robot Editor at Polaris, I have spent years organizing and archiving 3D models, animation files, textures, and project documentation across multiple productions. I am comfortable working inside complex pipelines, maintaining folder structures and naming conventions, and collaborating with technical staff to ensure that assets remain usable, trackable, and ready for reuse. At NASA’s Johnson Space Center, I built real-world-scale 3D models according to strict specifications. I documented them for reuse by visualization and engineering teams. This experience aligns well with your emphasis on preparing assets for transfer to the Animation Research Library and supporting a new collections management system.
I also bring direct experience in libraries and archives. As a Library Assistant at the Art Institute Library, I helped users navigate collections organized with the Library of Congress Classification system, assisted with events, and regularly stepped into an acting-librarian role alongside a colleague. In my MLIS coursework, I have conducted condition assessments and accession-style documentation for a mixed-format personal Collection and developed a disaster plan for a small studio repository, with particular attention to born-digital media and long-term preservation risks. These projects have prepared me to process and describe digital assets, support preservation planning, and maintain accurate, policy-driven records—all key aspects of the Digital Archivist role.
What excites me most about this position is the chance to contribute to the ongoing design and implementation of your digital collections infrastructure. The opportunity to help configure and populate a new collections management system, develop workflows for ingest and description of born-digital artwork, and collaborate with production and technology teams to keep the archive aligned with evolving tools and formats is deeply appealing to me. I am particularly drawn to roles that blend technical problem-solving, metadata design, and user training, and I would welcome the chance to support the Animation Research Library’s mission to preserve and provide access to the studio’s creative legacy.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to discuss how my combination of MLIS training, digital asset management experience, and animation production background can support the work of the Animation Research Library and Walt Disney Animation Studios. I can be reached at 231-624-3500 or at coreyaeverett@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Corey Everett
MLIS Candidate, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
December 2, 2025
Hiring Committee
Nickelodeon Asset Library & Archive (NALA)
Nickelodeon Animation West
231 W Olive Ave
Burbank, CA 91502
Dear Members of the Hiring Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Production Asset Librarian position with the Nickelodeon Asset Library & Archive (NALA) at Nickelodeon Animation in Burbank. With a background that combines professional animation and 3D content production with graduate training in library and information science, I am excited by the opportunity to support Nickelodeon projects through thoughtful digital asset management, metadata, and archival work.
I am currently completing my Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where my focus has been on metadata, digital libraries, and archival preservation. In recent coursework, I have designed a custom metadata schema that combines MODS and VRA Core, built an application profile, and crosswalked those records into Dublin Core Simple for publication in Omeka. This work required careful attention to controlled vocabularies, field mappings, and the trade-offs between rich local description and interoperability—skills that translate directly to NALA’s emphasis on metadata and taxonomy management, cataloging production assets, and maintaining consistent naming conventions across the pipeline.
My professional history in animation and digital content gives me hands-on familiarity with the kinds of assets your team manages. As Art Director of EverCreate Studio and a former Robot Editor at Polaris, I have spent years organizing and archiving complex 3D models, animation files, and related documentation for multiple productions. I am used to working within and improving production pipelines, maintaining folder structures and metadata, and collaborating with technical directors, IT, and artists to ensure that assets are stored, named, and delivered in ways that support both creative and technical needs. At NASA’s Johnson Space Center, I built real-world-scale 3D models following strict specifications. I documented them so that engineers and visualization teams could reliably reuse them—an experience that parallels NALA’s need for accurate documentation of file attributes and delivery workflows.
I also bring library and archives experience that aligns with the hybrid nature of this role. As a Library Assistant at the Art Institute Library, I helped patrons locate materials organized according to the Library of Congress Classification system, supported library events, and often served as an acting librarian alongside a colleague. In my MLIS program, I have conducted condition assessments and accession-style documentation for a mixed-format personal Collection and written a disaster plan for a small studio repository, including strategies for protecting born-digital media. These projects have prepared me to assist with both digital and physical materials, maintain accurate inventory records, and communicate policies and procedures around archival care—responsibilities central to the Production Asset Librarian position.
What excites me most about this role is the chance to be a bridge between production and the archive—serving as a key liaison with SpongeBob SquarePants Universe productions, helping to refine DAM usability and UI with the Animation Technology and IT teams, and ensuring that both current shows and future audiences benefit from well-organized, well-described assets. I thrive in dynamic environments where I can wear multiple hats, from processing new assets and refining taxonomies to answering research requests and coordinating with vendor studios. I am eager to bring that energy to NALA’s work supporting Nickelodeon’s storytelling.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my combination of MLIS training, digital asset management experience, and familiarity with animation production pipelines can support the Nickelodeon Asset Library & Archive’s mission. I can be reached at 231-624-3500 or at coreyaeverett@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Corey Everett
MLIS Candidate, University of North Carolina at Greensboro