3D printing, robotics, wearables and virtual reality are some of the technologies that will be spotlighted this fall at programs offered through Toronto Public Library’s Digital Innovation Hubs located at Toronto Reference Library, Fort York Branch and Scarborough Civic Centre Branch.
Programs are free and open to everyone.
“Through the technology services, programs, and staff support offered by the library’s Digital Innovation Hubs, Toronto Public Library seeks to support creativity, encourage collaboration, and spark experimentation and innovation for creators and entrepreneurs of all ages,” said Linda Mackenzie, Director Research and Reference Libraries.
The popular Innovator in Residence program returns to all three Hub locations. Over several weeks, each resident will deliver classes, talks and other programs focused on a specific technology field. Toronto Reference Library’s resident Yifat Shaik will focus on 3D design and modelling. Fort York and Scarborough Civic Centre’s residencies will focus on robotics and 3D printing. The residents will be announced in late September.
Launching this fall, the Hub Talks speaker series will showcase the global impact of new and emerging technologies. On September 10 at Toronto Reference Library, University of Toronto Professor Matt Ratto will speak about bringing 3D printing technology to Uganda to support the creation of prosthetics. On October 27 at Fort York Branch, We Are Wearables Founder Tom Emrich will discuss how wearable technology will change the world. On November 26 at Scarborough Civic Centre Branch, award-winning game designer Stephan Tanguay will spotlight virtual reality, a technology that is expected to radically change gaming, entertainment and communications.
On September 26, Toronto Reference Library will host a Speed Mentoring Hangout in partnership with Career Skills Incubator, creators of the Menteer online mentor matching program. Guests can network with professionals in the technology and digital media industries for 10-minute one-on-one conversations to get advice and potentially form a longer term mentoring relationship.
On November 14 and 15, Toronto Reference Library will host the library’s inaugural hackathon, focused on open data. Working with Open Data Institute, the library will invite developers, data enthusiasts, and idea people/thinkers to examine library and City of Toronto open data and work with mentors to learn and understand how to use open data to create solution concepts and prototypes that address library needs.
The Digital Innovation Hub’s ongoing suite of digital design and technology classes taught by Hub staff will also be offered. These free and introductory level classes include 3D printer certification, Photoshop, website design, audio editing, video editing, green screen, Python programming, Asquith Press book design and editing, and more. Spots are limited and registration is required to attend these classes.
For full details about Digital Innovation Hub programs, visit tpl.ca/dihprograms.
About Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library is one of the world's busiest urban public library systems. Every year, 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131. To get the most current updates on what's happening at the library, follow us on Twitter @torontolibrary.
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