Digital Collections:
The Smithsonian Libraries created a searchable interface to highlight several different artist book collections from a number of the branch libraries. Read about the project on their blog and browse/search through the collections here.
In addition to the Smithsonian the British Library is expanding it’s “Endangered Archives” collections. The New York Times describes the expansion in a blog post. If you’d look to check out the full collection you can do so here.
A digital archive of Troubles Art has also recently be launched in Ireland. You can read more about it from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and you can view the collection here.
More from Amazon:
Amazon Giveaways
Amazon has introduced a new feature which lets anyone create a contest from their site. You choose what you want to give away, enter the details of the contest, and Amazon gives you a link to share with your audience. You can find all of the details from Amazon or read about it on The Next Web.
Amazon Echo
Amazon has created a smart bluetooth speaker that has a Siri-like assistant named Alexa. For more information Mashable provides an overview here and you can check out Amazon’s product page. If you’d like one for yourself you’ll need to sign up for an invitation. For a limited time Prime members receive a $100 discount.
Collision Tolerant Drone:
The company Flyability has recently created a drone that can be flown into people or objects without detriment to either the drone or the object its running into called GimBall. It is thought that tis type of device might be used in search and rescue instances where it is too dangerous to send in a person. You can read more about it from the Verge or Yahoo Tech.
Visit Historic Places with Google Maps or Zip-line through the Rainforest:
Google maps let you travel all over the world without ever leaving the comfort of your desk chair. You can check out historic places and the Amazon using the street view feature. What places have you explored through maps?
Apple’s Electric Car?
Rumors abound that Apple is working on an electric car and, while it may not come to fruition, the number of employees assigned to the task indicate that they are relatively committed to the project. You can read more about it from the Wall Street Journal or ReadWrite.
IKEA’s Wireless Charging Furniture:
IKEA has announced a line of furniture that will charge your devices that utilize Qi wireless charging technology and it should be available sometime this spring. If your phone doesn’t use this technology IKEA will also sell covers that make your phone Qi compatible. You can read more about the line from the Wall Street Journal tech blog or from Mashable.
