Secrets of the Century

In honor of the 50th anniversary of Oklahoma A&M College, a time capsule was created that would hold the Secrets of the Century. Messages and University documents from 1941 were placed in a secure location and rediscovered at OSU’s centennial celebration.

The Secrets of the Century were gathered during a weekend jubilee lasting from Dec.13-15, which was less than a week after the tragic events at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. A large portion of the capsule’s contents were notes, letters and memorabilia that related to the times; 527 note cards were written by those who attended the 50th anniversary dinner hosted by OAMC President Henry G, Bennett.

Many of the hand-written submissions reflect the air of uneasiness in which the country stood. With World War II looming overhead, there was not much hope for students to cling to.

Velma Ellene Henricks wrote, “none of us know what the future holds in store for us, and in the crisis of a war-torn world, we only hope and pray that God Almighty will carry us through.”

However, David Peters, assistant professor of the University Archives, felt that despite the disparaging mood of that time, some notes held a positive light.

“It's nice because people wrote these notes with the belief that the world would go on, and they would be read, despite the uncertainty of that time,” David said.

Heartfelt notes, like the one from Eleanore Kieffer, wish their successors well and display their hope of a more steady future for the country.

“Dear Aggies, I have no idea to whom this will be. May you have as much fun and as many troubles as we are. I hope one of your troubles isn’t a war as we have just entered our second world war. Wishing you the best of luck. Eleanore Kieffer, Stillwater, 131 N Husband,” she wrote.

The time capsule containing the stories of the '40s was implanted into the south wall of Edmon Low Library. Fifty years later, the class of 1991 would have the pleasure of opening the capsule and finding what their predecessors left for the world of the future.

They could discover the secrets from people of the past and determine the accuracy of their predictions for the future, such as those of Olan H. Hamilton.

He wrote, “To Mr. Walter Clark Hamilton, I hope you have had a nice half century. I predict you have made a success in some branch of science. I also predict 1. The present war ended in 1943. 2. A world state organized after the war has prevented any war since 1943! 3. Atomic energy has not been released in large quantities ever. 4. No one has been to the moon.”

In the coming year, Spears School of Business will be creating a 50-year time capsule for the dedication of its new Business Building. In 2067, Oklahoma State University will be able to see how the world looks through the eyes of current students. They may even discover the secrets of our century.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-Communications intern for OSU Library Communications

Data Management Research

In 2016, the Research & Learning Services department took on a campuswide research project. The goal of this project was to determine how new, tenure-track faculty manage their data. We recently spoke with Cinthya Ippoliti, Associate Dean for Research & Learning Services, about this research into data management and how to better the management process across the Oklahoma State campus.

For this research, the group interviewed 31 faculty across campus. They were pleased to receive feedback from 12 percent of those who received an invitation.

Participants were asked questions like:

• Do any of your funding sources require you to draft a management plan?
• What type of data do you generate?
• How often and how do you share your data with others?
• What happens to your data after the research project has concluded?

Once all the feedback was collected, the faculty responses were divided among RLS librarians, examined and condensed to a spreadsheet for ease of access. Upon its completion, the group met to discuss the results that surfaced during the interview process. They found that most of the participants did not have a data management plan in place and mainly stored their data on hard drives.

From this, the group discovered several needs. These included data storage solutions for smaller data sets; training on creating data management plans, file naming conventions and file organization schemas; and answers to questions about data sharing and re-purposing methods and tools.

Using a design-thinking process, the group developed ideas to better the Research Data Services program and provide data management solutions for researchers. There is now an outlet of resources for managing data and developing the skills necessary to increase impact of research findings.

The services offered by the Research Data Services are data information literacy, data storage and management support; metadata & documentation, institutional repository and data visualization; research impact, workshops and consultations.

Cinthya Ippoliti specializes in the workshops, consultations and data management plans, and Nicole Sump-Crethar works with metadata, institutional repository and data curation. Both can be contacted through Research Data Services.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-Communications Intern for OSU Library Communications

Artificial Intelligence: The Future

We have now discussed the possibilities of virtual reality, augmented reality and data visualization in the library of the future, but wait, there’s more. Artificial intelligence is quickly gaining ground in the technological community and could be the most important advancement yet.

AI refers to the display of human-like cognitive functions by machines. The all-knowing nature of new computer programs often gives the impression of cognizant awareness; however, the intelligence is artificial because it is not original. The computer or device doesn’t create its own knowledge; it simply reflects the program it possesses.

In regards to this developing technology, Amazon Echo is the next big thing. You may have heard it referred to as Alexa, which is the voice service that operates Echo, similar to Siri for Apple. Echo can currently perform simple actions by request.

Upon hearing its name, Echo goes live and sends input to the cloud for interpretation. This process allows it to answer questions and complete routine functions by communicating to connected devices. The most prevalent uses at this time are adjustment of thermostat, lighting and speakers. Echo can also make lists, keep time and operate security services.

The program is customizable with skills, which are interactive applications activated by voice. Skills can be simple, like Message Presenter, MySpellBuddy and PaperBoy, which read notes, correct spelling and deliver news. They can also be complex and personalized, like A Compliment Please, which as you can imagine, gives you a compliment.

This program has successfully begun the process of integrating artificial intelligence into everyday life. We are now seeing programs like Alexa in the private homes of people across the world, so it seems clear that AI could soon become a staple in libraries and other higher education institutions.

As for the OSU Library, these beginning AI functions could mean a lot of things for our students. We could implement self-controlled systems in our study rooms. With this, they could take notes by telling an AI assistant their ideas or play learning games and quizzes to prepare for exams. They could even use applications, like the Echo’s skills, to learn about the library’s services.

Individuals using the new event room could use an AI program like Echo to give a presentation hands free. They could also dim lights or even change bulb color to reflect the content or mood of the meeting.

Librarians could use AI to create a book location system that would ease the task of finding books and materials. With such a program, one could simply request a certain book and a virtual assistant could give you directions to its exact location.

The potential uses of AI are limitless in an institution of education. By integrating the worlds of work, school and play, this technology could simplify many aspects of university life with one smart system. Discover other uses for AI in higher education, and comment your ideas for the OSU Library below.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-Communications Intern for OSU Library Communications

Google's Dan Russell discusses the future of learning

The Future of Learning: How will people learn the skills they need for academe, work and life?
presented by Dan Russell, Google

Feb. 3, 2017
Edmon Low Library, OSU-Stillwater

9-10:30 a.m., Peggy V. Helmerich Browsing Room
General presentation open to OSU Library employees and our OCALD colleagues

10:45-11:45 a.m., Stringer Conference Room
OSU Special Collections Division faculty and staff meet with Russell

11:45-12:45 p.m., Stringer Conference Room
LEC meet with Russell

1 to 1:30 p.m., Break

1:45 to 2:45 p.m., Stringer Conference Room
Research and Learning Services faculty and staff meet with Russell

3-4 p.m., Stringer Conference Room
Library Operations Division faculty and staff meet with Russell

Abstract

What does it means to be literate in the age of Google? At a time when you can search billions of texts in milliseconds, we need to rethink what it means to be literate, and to be a learner. Although you might think that "literacy" is one of the great constants that transcends the ages, the skills of a literate person have changed substantially over time as texts and technology allow for new kinds of reading and understanding. Knowing how to read is just the beginning of it - knowing how to frame a question, pose a query, interpret the texts that you find, organize (and use) the information you discover, and understand your metacognition - these are all critical parts of being literate as well. In his talk Dan reviews what literacy means today and shows how some very surprising and unexpected skills will turn out to be critical in the years ahead.

The advent of the networked world changes our expectations from traditional learning behaviors to ways of learning that leverage the networked world and networked people. From his perspective as a MOOC instructor of more than 3M students (and as someone who spends considerable time teaching in K12 and public libraries), Dan will describe the changes in literacies that are taking place, how we are becoming perpetual students, and what this means for the future of learning.

Speaker Bio

Daniel Russell is the Uber Tech Lead for Search Quality and User Happiness in Mountain View. He earned his PhD in computer science at the University of Rochester (1985), specializing in Artificial Intelligence until he realized that magnifying human intelligence was his real passion. Twenty years ago he forswore AI in favor of HI, and enjoys teaching, learning, running and music, preferably all in one day. His MOOC (PowerSearchingWithGoogle.com) has had over 3 million students, which suggests there is a large interest and appetite for learning how to do research more effectively.

Rooms of Purpose

It is well-known by now that the OSU Library has seen some changes in recent times. With the new equipment in the Creative Studios and the renovation of the 1st floor west wing, our aged building continues to be a hotspot for students while cultivating a venue for creation and innovation. Some of its most useful rooms are sometimes overlooked, so the following are several spots that may not receive as much attention as they deserve.

Data Visualization Studio

The McCasland Foundation Data Visualization Studio is a new addition to the Edmon Low Library. This room, also called 109A, is located on the western wall of first floor near Cafe Libro. The data visualization studio is open to anyone and is encouraged for projects. The studio holds a wall-mounted SMART Board as well as a tabletop monitor that allows collaboration between two screens. You can send information from one board to the other or reflect one screen to its counterpart.

The tabletop screen is great for close-up visuals of graphics and data. Data visualization itself is the display of information for analysis and communication, and the technology in the library’s studio is meant to do just that. The horizontal screen allows users to get closer to their data and see more detail. It is also useful to be able to move elements and create different arrangements of data.

Although it is set up horizontally, the data visualization screen is not an actual table, so food and beverage are not meant to be placed on it. You can reserve the studio through the Edmon Low Creative Studios.

Event Room

The new event room, also known as 102G, is primarily dedicated to hosting small events in the Edmon Low Library. It is located in the center of the new 1st floor study rooms, and the space can fit up to 40 people, depending on seating arrangement. With a SMART Board, wireless controls and a podium, this room is ideal for hosting seminars or holding presentations.  

When it is not being used for an event, 102G is open to the public for studying. There have been instances of visitors being asked to leave the room for an event,but this conflict can be avoided by checking the event calendar. The room can be reserved by completing a request form online.

Reading Room

The Anne Morris Greenwood Reading Room is one of the library’s oldest study areas. The space has been used by students since the 1950's, and it still attracts the most diligent of scholars today. It is the only space in the library to offer lamps, which makes it a spot of interest for students who perform their best with personal space and extra amenities.

It has two levels, which is convenient for those who want to be productive during their library visit but do not wish to venture higher than the second floor. There are also more electric outlets in this room than any single room in the library.

Contrary to popular belief, group study is allowed and encouraged in the Reading Room; however, the room remains quiet much of the time. Events on the second floor are typically held in the Peggy V. Helmerich Browsing Room, so the Reading Room remains a dedicated study space around the clock.

You may still have to see these rooms for yourself to get the full effect of their worth, but there is no doubt these spaces are bringing intelligence and innovation to the OSU Library. Whether data development or diligent studying is the goal, the library remains a primary location for traditional services and advancing technology.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-communications intern for OSU Library Communications

It's A Ruff Life

On any given day, you may see dogs around campus in orange vests; well, these cuddly canines happen to be employees of the University. From its beginning in fall 2013, Pete’s Pet Posse has quickly become a staple of Oklahoma State University. The pets and their handlers can be found in their various places of work around campus throughout the year.

As you may know, the Pet Therapy program was created with the intent of bringing joy and puppy breath to the people of OSU. Research shows the presence of therapy animals can be significantly beneficial to humans, which is why the goal of the Pet Therapy program is to positively enhance physical and emotional health on campus as well as contribute to OSU’s America’s Healthiest Campus® initiative.

There are currently 28 dogs in Pete’s Pet Posse, each with their own personality and energy. These four-legged friends are given custom information cards for their handlers to give out to visitors. We could share a photo of our card collection, but you will just have to visit Pete’s Pets to see them for yourself.

We recently had the opportunity to hear from a handler in the pet therapy program.

Joy Fieldsend and her miniature schnauzer, Sophie, work in the OSU Alumni Association. Joy got Sophie as a puppy and knew right away that she had the loving nature and friendly personality of a therapy dog.

Their most touching moment as a pet therapy team was early on in their Posse career. On a typical day at the Student Union, Joy and Sophie encountered a young woman who was visibly stressed. Joy later learned how much it had meant to the girl that Sophie had been there that day. Their session had given her a reason to smile and carry on during a stressful time.

“It made me realize the work we do on a daily basis is so important,” Joy said. “We may not know it at the time but the impact we have on the well-being of the students is huge.”

Many students admit to checking the Pete’s Pets’ social media accounts to see where the dogs will be located on campus each day, especially during the final weeks of each semester. Sessions with therapy animals have been proven to decrease stress, anxiety and depression. The animals can also provide comfort and encourage communication. These benefits are vital to OSU students with final exams and projects looming overhead.

“It is so important that Pete’s Pet Posse is visible around campus during finals week,” Joy said. “You can see the stress just fall off the students while they are petting the dogs.”

There is no doubt that therapy animals are helpful during times of stress. Junior strategic communications major, Lucky Coffey, is an avid supporter of Pete’s Pet Posse. She loves how the therapy dogs work at different places across the university.

“It immediately brightens my day whenever I see any of the dogs around campus,” Lucky said.

Coffey especially enjoys visiting with the dogs at the weekly events in the OSU Library. Pete’s Pets visit every week for Mutt Day Mondays 12-1p.m., Yappy Hour on Tuesdays 6-7p.m. and Waggin’ Wednesdays 2-3p.m. Members of the Posse will also be visiting the OSU library Monday-Thursday of finals week from 4-5p.m. for Finals Fuzzies.

The Pet Therapy program is able to continue doing great work because of the generosity of Merial, Purina and HomeAgain, which provide each of Pete’s Pets with medication, food and a microchip. OSU therapy dogs wear orange working vests with badges that read “Therapy Dog” and “Ask to Pet Me.” They also wear a Pete’s Pet Posse collar and matching leash.

Useful reminder: Therapy dogs are not service dogs. Therapy dogs, like Pete’s Pets, are trained to interact with many people; whereas, service dogs are trained to help one person and should not be distracted from their duties. Regardless, it is wise to always ask before touching an animal wearing a vest.

Tell us about your favorite encounter with a therapy animal in the comment section below.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-communications intern for OSU Library Communications

Maps and Spatial Data Services Q&A

Kevin Dyke is one of the newest members of the OSU Library faculty. Originally a history major with geography and English minors, Mr. Dyke moved to the University of Minnesota to earn a graduate degree in geography. While there, his knowledge of computer programming led him to a job in UM’s map library. Now, as head of Maps and Spatial Data Services, Mr. Dyke is our go-to guy for learning all about what goes on down in the Edmon Low basement.

We recently spoke with him to find out a little more about MSDS and how it can be integrated into our library of the future.

What are your duties?

It has been an interesting transition coming from my last job because I basically took on the duties of my previous boss and coworker in a lot of ways. I’m the subject liaison for the geography department, and I manage our paper map collection, which is something that is very new to me. I’m learning more about the job part and also learning more about the collection. I have always known that map collections are quite different from a book collection, but now, I’m actually learning the details of just how unusual they are. I had an appreciation for them, but my work was entirely digital.

What can you tell us about the maps collection?

The main strengths of our collection are Oklahoma and Indian Territory, going back to the earliest days of when they came to be. We even have several maps from before the land became known as such. That is what comprises the digital maps collection, which is roughly 9,000 maps. I’ll go ahead and claim that we have the strongest collection of Oklahoma maps in the state. That is the biggest focus, but being a depository library, there is also the Federal Depository Library Program. FDLP is how people used to access governmental materials before the internet came around, so thousands of maps in our collection are a result of that program. It includes maps from the United States Geological Survey, the CIA and a number of other federal agencies. The Bureau of Land Management has also produced many maps that we’ve received over the years. So the lion share of our collection is maps produced by the federal government.

What exactly is spatial data?

I take a very broad view of what constitutes spatial data, and I like to include paper maps in that definition. Spatial data is anything that you could construe as a source of information that has a spatial component; basically, it refers to somewhere on the earth. So, if you have a spreadsheet of addresses of elementary schools in Payne County Oklahoma, that is something you could map, and those addresses are something you could consider spatial data.

What is the most common question you get from visitors?

I would say, the most common request we get is for historical aerial photographs, and those are exactly what they sound like. It is when the state or federal government would pay a company to fly across a county with a camera on the bottom of the plane snapping pictures. Then they take those pictures and distort them, so it seems like you’re starting straight down at the ground, and that can be used as a map. Otherwise, you have angles, and you won’t be able to measure distances. It’s not just like snapping a photo of the ground and saying “that’s an aerial photograph.” There is a whole wild world to it.

The requests are mainly for the contrast of an area. They know what it looks like now, but they are wanting to see what it looked like back in the ‘60s or whenever. It’s a lot of businesses and a lot of people dealing with the landscape of an area.

Right now, the Corporation Commission of Oklahoma is in the middle of a project where they are collecting all the aerial photographs from the OSU Library, the University of Oklahoma, the Geological Survey and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. The idea is that they will all be available at one spot. The main interest of the Corporation Commission is to monitor historical hazards. For example, they will be able to see an oil well north of Oklahoma City in 1935 and if there was a spill, so it could help make a link to the past. That is the driver of their interest in the project; ideally, the rest of us would also benefit from it.

How can classic paper maps stay relevant?

Broadly speaking, there is a lot of people who go hiking or work in areas that don’t have cell reception or GPS signal. Just in the western part of the country, there are big stretches of land where you are probably not going to get great signal. Those people still rely on paper maps, so there is still a strong market for those practical, weatherproof, foldable maps.

The other aspect is that they are a source of historical information, like any archive where researchers go and examine the firsthand writings of someone who lived in another time. Hand-in-hand with that is the map the people drew during their lifetime and how the map depicts the land. That level of use is not going to go away, and it is only going to become greater in decades to come because access to and creation of paper maps is dying. There is no question that it is not at the level it once was. At one time, a library like this would be receiving materials from the federal government on a weekly basis; that is just not the case anymore.

Is there anything that OSU Library can be doing better to stay with the digital times?

My job is going to be not only to take care of the collection but also to bring it into the 21st century and to emphasize the services aspect of our new name. I’m offering a workshop on how to make maps on the internet. In the future, I’m hoping to create a suite of workshops that would lead people through the different aspects of working with spatial data, paper maps and data visualization. Mapping is one form of data visualization, but there are many other ways to integrate it into our offerings. We can interact with our collection but also teach what people can do away from our collection and how to include our collection into an interactive map. That is what I’m really hoping to make happen here.

Do you think there is an opportunity to collaborate with our McCasland Foundation Data Visualization Studio?

A big problem with having digital map collections is that you only have a screen so big, and most of our maps are the size of tables. When you’re trying to look at the whole thing on a computer screen, the experience is just not the same. Having the full size makes things easier, and that is where having those huge tables and giant screens come in. You can actually display all of our maps in full size on that equipment and swipe through them. Those sorts of possibilities will certainly help the integration of spatial data into the new vision for the library.  

As Mr. Dykes has explained, Maps and Spatial Data Services can be an incredible resource for visitors and a useful tool in creating a library of the future. Our collection has the potential to have easier, widespread access through the Corporation Commission of Oklahoma. There are also opportunities for collaboration with data visualization that could revolutionize the way students and faculty are able to interact with our maps collection, spatial data and visual software.

What kind of workshop would you like to see from Maps and Spatial Data Services? Comment below.

Post by Jennifer Barnett, E-Communications Intern for OSU Library Communications