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On May 6th and 7th, I attended the Manitoba Libraries Conference hosted by the Manitoba Library Association (MLA). As an MLA member, I deeply appreciate this gathering. It's an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, discover innovative practices, and reflect on my own professional growth. This year was especially exciting as I co-presented a session titled "Demystifying ChatGPT: AI Innovations for Libraries & Digital Repositories" alongside Mike Ellis.  Day 1: Insights, Ideas, and AI InnovationsThe conference began with a powerful keynote by Niigaan Sinclair. Niigaan, an Anishinaabe professor from Peguis First Nation, immediately captured my attention with his compelling storytelling and incisive commentary. He contextualized Manitoba’s past and present, thoughtfully reflecting on the Legislative building and the statues toppled in recent years. His point about the absence of Indigenous representation being akin to starting a story at chapter two was particularly impactful. Niigan’s discussion on generational change, highlighted by Manitoba electing Canada’s first Indigenous premier, Wag Kinew, provided insight and perspective. His masterful balance between serious topics, such as residential schools and red dress day, and his use of humour underscored the value of open and straightforward conversations. The first session I attended, “Not Just for Kids: Engaging Adults and Building Community Using Storytime and Music Programs”, led by Austin Matheson and Brittany Lagasse from Winnipeg Public Library, was delightful. It expanded my perspective on adult programming and reminded me of the potential for community-building through creative initiatives like ukulele jams. Given that my previous assistant branch head occasionally serenaded us with her ukulele, this session triggered some memories. After preparing the laptop for my presentation, I quickly assembled a delicious lunch plate, though I had to temporarily stash it behind the projector screen. Despite starting slightly late due to the lunchtime rush, Mike and I had an impressive turnout, with attendees overflowing onto the floor! Mike’s engaging case study on PastFORWARD, Winnipeg Public Library’s digital repository, showcased an innovative AI application in archiving and elicited both laughter and lively participation from the audience. Although time for questions was limited, attendees raised insightful queries about generative AI trained on creative commons materials and the environmental implications of AI. Post-session, I enjoyed meaningful one-on-one discussions about generative AI and potential applications, including possibilities for interlibrary loan systems. Afterward, I enjoyed my lunch in the main hall and had an engaging conversation with Trevor, a new connection who shared interests in generative AI, libraries, astronomy, camping, and world travel. The afternoon continued with enlightening lightning talks on diverse library initiatives, from updating furniture (“Hold on to Your Seat - Or Don't!”) to enhancing bilingual collections and supporting male caregivers in early literacy programs. These brief yet impactful presentations sparked numerous programming ideas for my own library. The day concluded wonderfully with finger foods and mingling, leaving me eager for day two. Day 2: Exploring Library Practice and PhilosophyDay two started with the MLA Annual General Meeting, providing a relaxed and productive beginning to the day. It was wonderful connecting with colleagues over coffee, meeting new faces, and exchanging insights. The first session of the day, “Nature Programs in a Rural Public Library: Hatching Chicks and Growing Vegetables”, inspired fresh ideas for nature-focused programming. Learning about initiatives like donating produce grown in library gardens reinforced the innovative ways libraries serve their communities. “Staff Picks: A Fun, Online Readers’ Advisory Program Model for Your Library” provided practical inspiration for an upcoming autumn ‘Staff Picks’ display. A valuable takeaway from this session was the reminder that “tech should be a tool that supports what you do, not dictate it.” The session “In Search of the Lost Library”, presented by librarians from the University of Winnipeg, demonstrated creative solutions for addressing discrepancies in catalogue entries. While their final solution didn’t utilize generative AI, their recognition of it as a potential solution brought a smile to my face, aligning with my interest in integrating AI into library workflows. Lunch and the awards ceremony, featuring speaker Chimwemwe Undi, were enjoyable and celebratory. Congratulations to all award winners! In the afternoon, Sam Popowich’s session, “The Cultural Politics of Libraries”, was particularly thought-provoking. Sam compellingly argued for recognizing libraries as politically active institutions, examining the 'enlightenment' versus 'social control' perspectives on library history. After the session, Sam generously gifted me his book, "Solving Names: Worldliness and Metaphysics in Librarianship", a thoughtful gesture and a read I’ve already begun to enjoy. The final session I attended, “The Burnt-Out Librarian: Moving on From Vocational Awe”, tackled an important yet often overlooked issue. Carolyn and Monique shared personal experiences and offered practical strategies to address burnout, reinforcing the importance of maintaining healthy engagement with our profession. If you’re interested in exploring the content from my session, I’ve included two versions of the presentation slides in PDF format: a short presentation version (as delivered at the conference) and a more detailed version for deeper context and explanation. I hope these resources offer insight into our session and inspire new ways to explore the role of generative AI in libraries. Reflecting on these two enriching days, I felt a great sense of community and connection. The Manitoba Libraries Conference reaffirmed my passion for librarianship, highlighted extraordinary work happening throughout Manitoba, and reinforced my belief that librarians and library workers truly do rule. Until next time! 
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The digital world is brimming with information—but not all of it is accurate. With AI-generated content flooding our feeds and misinformation becoming more sophisticated, verifying facts has never been more crucial. Whether you're researching for work, keeping up with the news, or simply scrolling through social media, sharpening your fact-checking skills can help you separate truth from deception. Here’s how to sharpen your perception, enhance your awareness, and become a more informed consumer of information.  Generated with DALL·E. Five Key Strategies for Verifying Information1. Research the Author or Organization A source’s credibility matters. Before trusting information, investigate who is behind it:
2. Use Smart Search Techniques Finding reliable sources quickly depends on how you search. Here are a few techniques to refine your results:
3. Verify the Original Source Many articles cite secondhand sources—but are they trustworthy?
4. Consult Fact-Checking Websites Independent fact-checkers help cut through the noise. Some recommended resources include:
5. Pause and Reflect If a claim sparks an emotional reaction, that’s a red flag. Misinformation thrives on outrage and urgency. Before sharing or believing a story, take a step back and ask:
Beyond the Basics: Fact-Checking FrameworksThe SIFT Method: A Fast, Effective Approach Mike Caulfield’s SIFT method offers a quick way to assess information:
The P.R.O.V.E.N. Method: A Deeper Dive For more thorough evaluation, use the P.R.O.V.E.N. method:
Lateral Reading: Thinking Like a Fact-Checker Instead of staying on one page, open new tabs and check:
Final Thoughts: Build Your Information ResilienceAI-generated content isn’t going anywhere, and misinformation continues to evolve. Developing strong fact-checking habits keeps you informed and protects you from misleading claims. Next time you come across a viral story, a surprising statistic, or a claim that seems off, take a moment to verify before you share. The more we question, the better we can navigate today’s information landscape.  Generated with DALL·E. What’s Your Go-To Fact-Checking Method?Have a favourite strategy or a trusted source you rely on? Let’s discuss in the comments!
The internet is a vast, ever-expanding landscape of information, social connection, and convenience. But just like any city with bustling streets and hidden alleyways, navigating the digital world requires caution. Online safety isn’t just about avoiding obvious scams—it’s about developing a mindset that keeps your personal information secure, your devices protected, and your digital footprint under control.  Generated with DALL·E. What is Online Safety?Online safety refers to the practices and precautions individuals take to protect themselves, their personal data, and their digital identities from cyber threats. These threats range from phishing scams and malware to identity theft and privacy breaches. Staying safe online means understanding these risks and actively taking steps to reduce them. Main Facets of Online Safety
Tips, Best Practices, and Rules of Thumb1. Strengthen Your Passwords
2. Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
3. Protect Your Devices with Security Software
4. Be Mindful of Your Digital Footprint
5. Browse Safely and Avoid Suspicious Websites
6. Stay Vigilant on Social Media
7. Verify Before Trusting Online Information
8. Shop and Bank Securely Online
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay SecureOnline safety isn’t a one-time action—it’s an ongoing practice. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, but by staying informed, adopting secure habits, and using common sense, you can navigate the digital world with confidence. Whether you’re shopping, socializing, or simply browsing, a little caution goes a long way in protecting yourself from potential threats. By treating your online presence like you would your home—locking doors (passwords), checking visitors (verifying links), and securing valuables (personal data)—you can enjoy the internet’s benefits while minimizing its risks. Stay safe, stay smart, and stay cyber-aware! Generated with DALL·E.
I've always been curious about how well ChatGPT can generate functional code. To test its capabilities, I decided to start with something relatively simple but still interactive: coding a basic Space Invaders game. I wanted to see how well ChatGPT could generate a working program, how adaptable it would be to my requests, and whether I could refine and improve the code through iterative prompts. This experience turned into an engaging coding experiment, showing me just how powerful AI-assisted development can be.  Generated with DALL·E. Defining the ProjectSpace Invaders is a classic arcade game where the player controls a spaceship that moves left and right, shooting enemies descending from the top of the screen. The game involves essential programming concepts like:
Iterating on the CodeI began by asking ChatGPT to generate a basic Space Invaders game in CodeSkulptor. The initial version included:
The Final ResultBy the end of this experiment, I had a functional and customizable Space Invaders game running in CodeSkulptor. The iterative process demonstrated how well ChatGPT can understand and implement coding requests, allowing for quick modifications and enhancements. For those interested, I highly recommend trying out the code in CodeSkulptor and playing around with your own modifications. The experience is a great way to learn how game logic works while also exploring AI-assisted development. Download the Code Below
 Generated with DALL·E. Looking Ahead: The Power of AI Coding AssistanceThis experience left me excited to continue exploring coding with ChatGPT. Now that o3-mini-high is available—a model that is supposed to be even more proficient at coding—I’m even more eager to see how it improves code generation, debugging, and refactoring. With each iteration, AI models are becoming more adept at understanding context, implementing changes effectively, and even suggesting improvements I might not have thought of myself. If this simple Space Invaders game was just the beginning, I can only imagine how far AI-powered coding assistance can take us. Imagine being able to code entirely in natural language! Whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an experienced developer looking to prototype ideas quickly, ChatGPT is proving to be an invaluable tool in the coding process.
I've been playing around with ChatGPT for a while now, experimenting with its ability to generate and refine stories, especially those rooted in science. One of my latest projects was crafting a science fiction short story that balances scientific accuracy with a sense of curiosity and wonder—something in the flavour of Carl Sagan.  Generated with DALL·E. The process? A mix of notes, structured planning, AI-assisted brainstorming, research, and a lot of tweaking:
Final Touches: Bringing the Story to Life with Video & MusicTo enhance the experience, I experimented with Sora to create short videos for each chapter, the title screen, and ending. I compiled these into videos for the story, trying two different approaches:
On top of that, I wanted an atmospheric soundtrack, so I used ChatGPT to craft a dungeon synth instrumental prompt for Suno. I’ve been really into dungeon synth lately, and this story felt like the perfect inspiration for something melancholic, immersive, and cosmic. Suno generated two versions: After all that experimenting, refining, and assembling, here’s the final outcome: ‘Echoes of a Dying Star’—a story that explores the cosmic scale of a supernova through the perspectives of a doomed autonomous research probe, a distant spaceship, Earth-based observers, and even the Andromeda Galaxy. Check out the story, and watch the accompanying videos below! Echoes of a Dying StarEchoes of a Dying Star - Video 1Echoes of a Dying Star - Video 2IntroductionIn today's fast-paced digital world, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) can significantly enhance productivity and efficiency. ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is a powerful language model that can assist with a wide range of tasks, from drafting emails to brainstorming ideas. This guide explores the philosophy behind integrating ChatGPT into your workflow and provides practical steps on how to incorporate it effectively.  Generated with DALL·E. The Philosophy Behind Using ChatGPTEnhancing Productivity and Efficiency At its core, ChatGPT is designed to augment human capabilities. By handling routine or time-consuming tasks, it allows you to focus on more complex and creative aspects of your work. Complementing Human Skills ChatGPT excels at processing and generating text based on patterns in data it was trained on. While it doesn't possess consciousness or personal experience, it can provide insights and suggestions that complement human intuition and expertise. Continuous Learning and Adaptation Incorporating ChatGPT into your workflow is not a one-time setup but an ongoing process. As you interact with the model, you learn how to craft better prompts, and the AI can provide more tailored responses over time. How to Incorporate ChatGPT into Your Workflow1. Identify Suitable Tasks Determine which aspects of your workflow can benefit from AI assistance. Common areas include:
2. Set Up Access Access ChatGPT through platforms that offer the service, such as:
3. Craft Effective Prompts The quality of the AI's output depends largely on the input it receives.
Practical ApplicationsPersonal Productivity Planning Healthy Meals Use ChatGPT to create meal plans or recipes based on ingredients you have or dietary preferences.
Developing Meal Plans Ask ChatGPT to generate a week's worth of healthy meal ideas.
Planning a Trip Utilize ChatGPT to help organize your travel itinerary, find attractions, or suggest packing lists.
Minimizing and Organizing Get advice on decluttering and minimizing possessions.
Time Management Improve your productivity by optimizing your schedule.
Enhancing Public Library Services Assisting with Reference Questions Library staff can use ChatGPT to help answer patron inquiries more efficiently, including reader's advisory and identifying books based on limited information.
Content Creation: Image Generation Generating Image Ideas and Descriptions Use ChatGPT to help conceptualize images or create descriptions for image generation tools.
Creating Prompts for AI Image Generators Craft detailed prompts to be used with AI image generation models like DALL·E.
Brainstorming Library Programs Generating Event Ideas Brainstorm new programs to engage the community.
Personal Learning and Development Understanding Complex Topics Leverage ChatGPT to break down complicated subjects and aid in your personal learning journey.
Tips for Effective UseBe Clear and Specific The more precise your prompt, the more relevant the response.
Use Iterative Refinement If the first response isn't quite right, refine your prompt by providing additional details or asking follow-up questions.
Leverage for Learning Use interactions as a learning opportunity to deepen your understanding.
Limitations and ChallengesUnderstanding AI Limitations
Avoiding Over-Reliance
ConclusionIntegrating ChatGPT into your workflow can be a game-changer, enhancing efficiency and sparking creativity. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, and applying best practices, you can harness this powerful tool to complement your skills and advance your projects. Embrace the collaborative potential of AI, and let it be a catalyst for innovation in your personal and professional journey.  Generated with DALL·E. Remember: The key to effectively using ChatGPT is experimentation and adaptation. As you become more familiar with how the AI responds, you'll discover increasingly valuable ways to incorporate it into your daily tasks.
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you’re all kicking off 2025 feeling refreshed and ready to discover new stories. Looking back on 2024, I can’t help but smile at the incredible books I got through this past year. It’s always tough to narrow things down, but here are a few standouts I couldn’t put down. ‘Machine Vendetta’ by Alastair Reynolds This third installment in the Prefect Dreyfus Emergency series hit all the right notes. Once again, Reynolds brilliantly combines intricate mystery with a universe so vivid you can practically feel the vacuum of space. From advanced lemur-like beings to AIs vying for control, the story is both a thought-provoking investigation and a stunning exploration of what humanity might become. ‘Berserk’ Series (Deluxe Edition) by Kentaro Miura, Translated by Duane Johnson While I read most of the series in previous years, I finished the series this year. The final Deluxe Edition volume was bittersweet. The abrupt ending, a result of Miura’s untimely passing, made the included guidebook feel extra special. It’s a fitting tribute to Miura’s extraordinary world—an epic adventure both beautiful and brutal, packed with unforgettable characters and jaw-dropping art. ‘Architects of Intelligence: The truth about AI from the people building it’ by Martin Ford This collection of interviews with AI pioneers is a must-read if you’re curious about where technology is headed. Ford steers insightful conversations with leading minds, making dense concepts accessible. You’ll find yourself pondering everything from ethics to existential risks, all while gaining a richer understanding of the true potential (and pitfalls) of AI. ‘Schismatrix Plus’ by Bruce Sterling Sterling’s vision of a posthuman future brims with creativity. The clash between the biologically enhanced Shapers and the cybernetically augmented Mechanists sets the stage for complex social dynamics and wild philosophical questions. Featuring “Lobsters” that push the boundaries of what it means to be human, this book still has me thinking about the essence of identity and evolution. These were just the highlights. Other favourites that made 2024 unforgettable include Ray Kurzweil’s ‘The Singularity Is Nearer: When We Merge with AI’, Rob Guillory’s ‘Farmhand’ series, Neil Gaiman’s ‘Norse Mythology’, and the four-volume ‘Aâma’ series by Frederik Peeters. Each one left its mark on my reading year. If you’d like to connect, feel free to send me a friend request on Goodreads. Let’s make 2025 a year of great reads and recommendations. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!  Generated with DALL·E.
Over the past two months, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has become an integral part of my daily life, transforming how I manage my health, stay connected, and engage with the world around me. With a pool conveniently located where I live, I was eager to track my swimming to gain a more comprehensive picture of my overall exercise routine. The release of the black titanium version caught my eye, and after carefully weighing the benefits, I decided it was time to make the leap. From the moment I put it on, the watch became more than just a tool—it became a companion. The Fitness Rings motivate me daily, encouraging that extra bit of movement, standing, or exercise. Tracking activities like swimming, outdoor cycling, dance, walking, and yoga has provided new insights, while monitoring my heart rate and blood oxygen levels offers a deeper look at my overall health. Sleep is crucial, even if it's not always easy to get a full eight hours. The Sleep Tracking feature offers valuable data on my rest patterns, helping me recognize when I need more or better-quality sleep. While I could use the Mindfulness app more often, the times I do engage in short breathing exercises and reflections, I notice increased focus, increased awareness, reduced stress, and a greater sense of mindfulness. Connectivity is effortless within the Apple ecosystem. Managing both a personal and work phone used to be cumbersome, but now important personal notifications appear discreetly on my wrist. I can keep my personal phone in my bag and my work phone in my pocket. The large screen makes typing messages comfortable, and the voice-to-text feature is perfect when I'm on the move. I'm now more excited to hike longer and explore deeper into areas without cell coverage. The Waypoints and Compass apps offer reliable navigation right on my wrist, with the ability to backtrack using directional prompts and view maps and distances. This adds both safety and excitement to my outdoor adventures. A variety of other apps further enhance my everyday experiences:
Choosing the Titanium Milanese Band was a decision I haven't regretted. Its versatility suits professional meetings, casual outings, and athletic activities. It's lightweight, breathable, durable, and comfortable—even when sleeping. For anyone exploring band options, it's worth trying on. Battery life has met my expectations, lasting more than two full days and nights even with multiple exercise sessions and constant wear. This means less time worrying about charging and more time enjoying the watch's features. Reflecting on my transition from a Fitbit—which sadly didn't last—I realize how much more the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers. It seamlessly integrates with other Apple products, gamifies health, centralizes essential information, and keeps me engaged on my wellness journey. In essence, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has become more than a wearable gadget; it's a companion that enriches my connection to myself and my surroundings. It reduces reliance on my phone, promoting greater mindfulness and presence in everyday moments. If you're considering a smart watch, I encourage you to reflect on how it might enrich your life and fit holistically with your goals. My Two Favourite Watch Faces
In this final post of our series, I’m excited to take you on a journey beyond the standard use of AI and into the realm of creativity and specialization. AI isn’t just about answering questions—it’s a tool for sparking creativity, simulating professional consultations, and generating unique content. Let’s explore how creative and specialized prompting techniques can expand your horizons and help you get the most from your AI interactions.  Generated with DALL·E. 1. Scenario-Based Prompting
2. Comparative Prompting
3. Image Generation Prompting
4. Hybrid Prompting
5. Personalized Prompting
And that concludes our exploration of AI prompting techniques! From building a solid foundation to unlocking deeper insights and expanding your creative potential, you now have a robust toolkit for engaging with AI. Whether you're using these techniques in a library setting, for research, or to fuel creative projects, remember that the key to mastering AI lies in thoughtful, intentional prompting. Thank you for joining me on this journey—let's continue exploring the power of technology and the limitless potential it offers.
Welcome back! As we continue this series on structuring AI prompts, it’s time to build upon the foundational techniques we’ve already explored. In this post, we’ll learn advanced prompting techniques that can help you draw out deeper insights and more sophisticated responses from AI. Whether you’re working in a research-heavy field or diving into a creative project, these advanced techniques will help you go further.  Generated with DALL·E. 1. Chain-of-Thought Prompting
Framework Tip: Use the C-A-R-E framework:
2. Role-Specific Prompting
Framework Tip: Utilize the R-T-F framework:
3. Prompt Chaining
Framework Tip: Apply B-A-B:
4. Negative Prompting
Framework Tip: Use the A-P-E framework to control the output:
Advanced prompting techniques open doors to deeper, more insightful AI interactions. By applying these strategies, you can get more nuanced and detailed responses that meet your professional or creative needs. In the final post of this series, we’ll explore creative and specialized prompting techniques that push the boundaries of AI’s capabilities, allowing for more imaginative and customized interactions. Stay curious!
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