As digitization of library and archival collections throughout our libraries and institutions ramps up, some seriously interesting tools and curiosities are beginning to emerge. One fun result is interactive maps like this one. Smithsonian Magazine recently superimposed the current map of NYC with a map of 1836. Visitors to the site just drag a little "peephole to the past" along the current street grid to see how things have changed. There is also a button to swap views in a sort of "back to the future" type time travel!
Couple the digitization movement with the brilliant idea of crowd sourcing the refinements and you have what the New York Public Library's "Labs" calls "Building Inspector." It's a smartphone app for the public good. But be warned: it is as addictive as Candy Crush. History lovers, get in there and leave your mark!
By Caitlin Hawke
h/t to neighbor Vivian Awner for the Smithsonian link which originally appeared in our March 2014 newsletter. Also, Avi over at the West Side Rag has a nice piece on a similar theme.
Couple the digitization movement with the brilliant idea of crowd sourcing the refinements and you have what the New York Public Library's "Labs" calls "Building Inspector." It's a smartphone app for the public good. But be warned: it is as addictive as Candy Crush. History lovers, get in there and leave your mark!
By Caitlin Hawke
h/t to neighbor Vivian Awner for the Smithsonian link which originally appeared in our March 2014 newsletter. Also, Avi over at the West Side Rag has a nice piece on a similar theme.
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