The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), the machine user interfaces and rules underpinning our software and technology, continue to gain importance as a technical competency in our digital age. In this introductory workshop, we’ll look at the core concepts of APIs, including their structure, types, and protocols. We’ll also consider how to connect APIs to library services and applications. The session will be grounded in practical examples and workshop attendees will get the chance to see prototypes of APIs in action and come away with a foundational understanding of this technology.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this webinar, attendees will be able to:

• Explain the role of APIs in the information landscape.
• Identify key API features, types, and protocols relevant to library work. 
• Develop strategies for consuming API data to support library services. 
• Apply API knowledge to enhance library workflows and user experiences.

Who Should Attend

MLIS/MSIS Students, Systems Librarians, Digital Initiative Librarians, Web Librarians, Library IT staff, Metadata/Cataloging Professionals, Technology Practitioners in libraries, and anyone interested in learning to work with APIs or to integrate services into their library's digital presence.

Presenter

Jason Clarke, Head of Research Informatics
I build and support research and data services at the Montana State University (MSU) Library. In my work, I have focused on Semantic Web development, digital library development, metadata and data modeling, web services and APIs, search engine optimization, and interface design. Before coming to MSU, I became interested in the intersection between libraries and technology while working as a web developer for the Division of Information Technology at the University of Wisconsin. After two years, I moved on to work as the web services librarian at Williams College Libraries. I really enjoy teaching and speaking about what I do. I try to publish my thoughts whenever I can and have even written some books.

• Building Mobile Library Applications
• Responsive Web Design in Practice

When I don't have metadata on the brain, I like to hike the mountains of Montana with my wife, our daughter, and our furry family member.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.