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Artificial Intelligence

What is Artificial Intelligence?

"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence."

AI has the potential to transform various aspects of society, such as education, health, culture, and economy, but also poses significant challenges and risks, such as ethical, legal, social, and human rights issues.

The Office for Artificial Intelligence [https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-artificial-intelligence] is a UK government unit that oversees the country’s AI strategy and promotes the ethical and innovative use of AI technologies.

AI is not a single technology, but a broad field that covers many applications and methods. Some of the common types of AI are:

  • Machine learning: This is the process of teaching machines to learn from data and improve their performance without explicit programming.
  • Natural language processing: This is the process of enabling machines to understand and generate natural language, such as text or speech.
  • Computer vision: This is the process of enabling machines to perceive and interpret visual information, such as images or videos.
  • Robotics: This is the process of creating machines that can move and interact with the physical world.

How can I try it?

You are already using it as AI is integrated into many services such as chatbots, mobile phones (face recognition), search engines (google), banking (detecting fraud), smart home appliances (Alexa) and recommendation services (Netflix).

As for new AI tools, there are many being developed all the time. Some of these tools are free to use, while others require a subscription. Here are some examples of current AI tools:

  • ChatGPT: A generative AI chatbot that can help you with a variety of tasks, such as writing a CV, understanding a complex topic, and more.
  • Bing AI: an intelligent assistant that enhances online search and browsing experiences with conversational AI capabilities.
  • Google Bard: Another generative AI chatbot that can converse with you on a variety of topics.
  • Snapchat AI: A feature on Snapchat that uses AI to create personalized filters and lenses based on your facial features.
  • DALL-E: An AI model developed by OpenAI that can generate images from textual descriptions.
  • Stable Diffusion: An AI-powered tool that can help you generate images from text descriptions.
  • Copy.ai: An AI-powered tool that can help you generate content for your social media posts, ads, and more.
  • Grammarly: An AI-powered writing assistant that can help you with grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

How can I use it safely?

When using AI, it is crucial to consider ethical implications, data privacy, transparency, bias mitigation, and the potential societal impact of the AI system to ensure responsible and safe use.

  • Check your Facts [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/fightingfakenews] - AI can make mistakes as it may not always provide accurate or up-to-date information.
  • Do not share personal data - This includes personal details, financial information, passwords, and other sensitive data.
  • Be Aware of Bias - Avoid using the model to validate or reinforce personal beliefs that could be harmful or discriminatory.
  • Report inappropriate content - How to report useful links [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/fightingfakenews]
  • Do not use AI generated content to deceive or mislead others.

Any tips for using AI generative tools effectively?

  • Be specific about what you want
  • Use relevant phrases
  • Be clear – avoid jargon or complex language
  • Provide examples to help refine the result
  • Fine-tune and rephrase
  • Proofread

How can I find out more?

Fighting fake news

Fake news refers to published articles, stories, images or videos that are not true. There are two kinds of fake news:

  1. Misinformation = you think it is true, but it is not
  2. Disinformation = intentionally false and intended to deceive or mislead

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) that fake news can be spread quickly, and it can be difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. This makes it harder to make informed decisions. Addressing this problem requires technology, education, and responsible AI usage to limit the spread of fake news.

  • Use reputable and trusted sources
  • Cross-check information and use fact-checking sites
  • Think before you share sensational or unverified claims
  • Encourage media literacy and critical thinking
  • Report fake news and scams to help stop the spread

Fact-checking browser extensions

Consider installing browser extensions like NewsGuard or SurfSafe, which provide real-time fact-checking and reliability ratings for websites.

Fact-checking websites

Fact-checking resources help to encourage critical thinking, combat misinformation and make informed decisions based on accurate information.

  • Full Fact [https://fullfact.org/]: Full Fact is the UK's independent fact-checking organisation. They provide accurate and impartial information on a wide range of topics, including politics, health, and the economy.
  • BBC Reality Check [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/reality_check]: The BBC's Reality Check team verifies and fact-checks claims made by politicians, public figures, and the media.
  • Channel 4 FactCheck [https://www.channel4.com/news/factcheck]: Channel 4 News has a dedicated FactCheck team that examines claims made by politicians and public figures and provides analysis based on evidence.
  • Reuters Fact Check [https://www.reuters.com/fact-check]: Reuters is a reputable news agency that offers a fact-checking section to verify and debunk false information circulating online and in the media.
  • Fact-Checking Organizations International (FCOI) [http://www.factcheckingday.com/]: FCOI is an alliance of fact-checkers from around the world, and their website provides resources and information on fact-checking.
  • Media Bias/Fact Check [http://www.mediabiasfactcheck.com/]: While not a fact-checking site per se, it provides information on the bias and fact-checking accuracy of various news sources.
  • Google Fact Check Explorer [https://toolbox.google.com/factcheck/explorer]: Google's Fact Check Explorer allows you to search for fact-check articles and claims related to specific topics.

Resources for children and young people

Online resources and websites for children and young people to learn about fake news and develop information literacy skills.

Watch a video

Try a quiz

How to report

  • Social media platforms: Most social media platforms have reporting mechanisms for fake news, false information, and scams. Look for options like "Report Post" or "Flag as Fake News" on the platform you are using.
  • Action Fraud [https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/]: Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can report instances of online fraud, including scams and fake news, through their website.
  • The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) [http://www.asa.org.uk/]: If the fake news is related to misleading advertising or promotions, you can report it to the ASA, which regulates advertising in the UK.
  • Ofcom [https://www.ofcom.org.uk/]: If the fake news involves broadcasting or telecommunications, you can report it to Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator
  • Online Safety Helpline [https://www.saferinternet.org.uk/helpline]: The UK Safer Internet Centre operates an Online Safety Helpline that you can contact for advice and support related to online safety issues, including fake news.

Trusted library e-resources

Here are some of the available free-to-use Library e-resources, to access these resources you will need your Library card and four-digit pin number. If you don't have a Library card join the library [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/aboutcovlibraries] and then request your pin number here [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/libraries-1/join-find-use/7].

You can follow us on X [http://www.twitter.com/covlibraries] and Facebook [http://www.facebook.com/covlibraries] for more articles like this and news of upcoming events.

Learning in libraries

National Careers Service Coventry and Warwickshire

The National Careers Service gives information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work opportunities. It is available across England through a website, telephone helpline and face to face advisors. The National Careers Service is free to everyone aged 19 and over (or 18 if you get out of work benefits) and can help you:

Interactive modules

Universal Credit is a new type of benefit that is designed to support people who are on a low income or out of work. This new system merges together existing benefits into one single monthly payment.

These interactive modules have been created by the Department of Work and Pensions to help people looking for full-time work.

National Careers Services in Coventry are available at:

  • Job Shop [/jobshop] Please call 0800 100 900 to book an appointment.

Herbert Open Learning

The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum runs Herbert Open Learning, an educational service that offers fascinating and challenging adult learning courses.

There is a range of subjects available from archaeology to art and creative writing to care of family treasures. All courses take place at the Herbert and are presented by experienced tutors.

More information about Herbert Open Learning and any of the courses [http://www.theherbert.org/learning].

You can book on any of these courses at the Herbert. To pay online and for more details visit The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum's website [http://www.theherbert.org/].

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS)

MOOCS offer university-level courses without the need to complete an entire programme of studies. Although MOOCS do not always lead to formal qualifications, they are ideal for independent study. And users can select courses from any institution offering them. There are also no entry requirements and offer video-based interaction either through peer review and group collaboration, or automated feedback through objective, online assessments (including quizzes and exams).

While most courses are free, some are fee-paying. Videos are normally short and much activity takes place on online discussion groups and forums.

Are MOOCs for you?

Why you might consider a MOOC

  • They are low-cost routes to accessing quality courses.
  • They can be combined with other study or work.
  • They are accessed from any computer at any location including Libraries and your home.

Search for MOOCs today

In 2012 the Open University launched FutureLearn [https://www.futurelearn.com/], partnering with more than 20 UK and international universities and other institutions such as the British Council, the British Library and the British Museum. A browse through the courses available reveals diverse subjects including How to Succeed at Interviews, Inside Cancer, Understanding Modern Business and Organisations, Elections for AS Level Politics, Dysphagia, and an Introduction to many languages, offered by UK and overseas universities.

Search for MOOCs [https://www.futurelearn.com/courses].

Accelerate - Free employment support

Accelerate [https://www.accelerate-platform.org/] is a free employment support service that can offer advice, build confidence, improve and provide valuable work experience - all geared towards helping you get a job that suits you. Accelerate specialises in supporting people who would like to work, but for various reasons find it hard to get a job and enjoy all the benefits that employment brings. As well as helping you access learning, training and work opportunities, Accelerate can support you to manage issues or problems holding you back from being able to work. If you live in Coventry or Warwickshire and are currently not paid in employment or self-employed and legally entitled in the UK, Accelerate can help!

You can talk to Accelerate about your first steps into employment by visiting the Accelerate [https://www.accelerate-platform.org/] website, calling: 024 7663 3911 or by using their contact form [http://www.accelerate-platform.org/contacts].

Using computers

Using a library computer

Library members can use the internet free of charge for up to two hours a day and can have one 15 minute drop-in session. All the computers shut down 15 minutes before the library closes.

Visit with your library card and PIN number to access the computer - appointments are not always needed. Haven't got a Library card? Find out how to join [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/info/126/libraries/3213/join_find_use/1]. [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/aboutcovlibraries]

Most computers have desktop publishing, word processing, scanning and printing facilities. People's Network PCs provide internet and email access as well as access to Microsoft Office programs.

Everyone needs to be covered by a TV Licence to download or watch BBC programmes on demand, including catch-up TV on BBC iPlayer. This could be on any device including TVs, desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, games consoles and digital boxes. Coventry Libraries do not have a TV Licence, therefore users will be unable to access BBC iPlayer through public computers and other devices when connecting through the Libraries wi-fi.

Under 16s computer use

A parental consent form must be completed for anyone under 16 to register to use the library computers. Once this is done under 16s just need to show their library card to book a computer to use. Complete the online form to allow use of library computers for under 16s [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/librariesformunder16s].

Remember: Be safe online [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/smart].

Booking your session

You can book two free hours a day in only one library. Extra time on the computers can be booked for a small fee with concessions for children. Booking extra time on computers can only be done in person in the library, is subject to availability and must be paid for in advance at the time of booking.

You can also ring your local library to book a session [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/communitylibraries] or book when you come into the library on a first come-first serve basis.

Before you book online, check these bank holiday opening times and dates [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/libraries-1/join-find-use/5].

How to book

You can book your free daily computer session online [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/computerbooking], up to one week in advance.

To do this you need to have your library card number, which you will find under the barcode and your PIN or you can call in or telephone your local library to check availability.

If you do not have a PIN, staff at your local library [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/communitylibraries] will give you one in person, over the phone or by e-mail.

Remember:

  • your PIN is for your security. Please do not tell it to anyone else, as they will be able to get access to your library details
  • you can book for the next day at the end of your visit.

Wi-Fi

All Coventry Libraries have free unlimited Wi-Fi access.

Computer and internet access

Library members can use the internet free of charge for up to two hours a day and can have one 15 minute drop-in session. Scanning, printing, photocopying and faxing facilities are also available. There are no charges for these services for those with a registered visual impairment.

Hublets

Hublet logo

Hublets are available at Central, Foleshill and Tile Hill Libraries.

Hublet tablet

A Hublet is a tablet computer that can be loaned using your library card and used for up to two hours for free anywhere within the library space.

It connects to the Wi-Fi and gives users access to:

  • BBC News
  • BBC Weather
  • CBeebies
  • Google Arts & Culture
  • Google Earth
  • Google Translate
  • Ask NHS
  • BBC Bitesize
  • Coventry Live
  • Duolingo
  • Facebook
  • Goodreads
  • Instagram
  • Libby
  • NASA
  • Pressreader
  • TED Talks
  • Trainline
  • TfWM
  • Twitter
  • Wikipedia

To loan a Hublet simply scan the barcode of your library card under the barcode reader on the Hublet docking station and a Hublet will be made available to use. Once finished, fit the Hublet back into the docking station to register the return and allow it to recharge.

Hublet barcode

Eduzone

Central Library is now a Eduzone - University and Further Education students and staff can safely access their educational resources from this Library. Read about how to access the Eduzone and how safe your access is. [https://eduroam.org/]

Eduroam logo

Printing

Homework - Did you know that you are allowed up to three free computer print-outs per day if they are for helping with your homework? Up to two of these can be colour. Also, if we do not have a book for you to borrow, you are allowed to make up to three black and white photocopies from encyclopaedias, our homework collection stock or other reference stock. Extra computer time, printing and photocopies are available for a small charge.

Free Printing to support Cost of Living Needs - Coventry Libraries and Information Service is providing 50 free Black and White prints per month to support cost of living needs. Library members receive a colour-coded loyalty card for monthly usage tracking. Please note that printing must be from .gov sites. For more information, please ask our staff.

Saving information

You can save to the hard drive temporarily or use a USB.

Library computers reboot after each use and files saved on the hard drive are deleted. You can save files temporarily onto the hard drive while you are using the computer but files must be saved to a removable device before your time runs out so the file is not deleted.

Library staff cannot recover a file once your computer session has ended.

Virus checking

All the computers have anti-virus software which is regularly updated. All USBs will be virus checked before use.

Aid for visually impaired

Software and equipment designed to assist users with a visual impairment when using a public computer can be found at:

Please contact the libraries for more information.

Tile Hill Library

Address: Jardine Crescent
Tile Hill
Coventry
CV4 9PL

Telephone: 024 7683 6785 [tel:02476836785]

Fax: 024 7646 4021

Wi-Fi

All Coventry Libraries have free unlimited WiFi access, provided by Arts Council England [http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/].

What you need to connect

  • A wireless enabled (Wi-Fi 802.11b or 802.11g) device. This could be a laptop or tablet and may already have Wi-Fi built in. If not, you can buy a Wi-Fi card or USB dongle from most major computer stores.
  • A web browser (e.g. Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari) installed on your laptop or tablet. You can use any standard internet ready browser or any operating system.

How to get connected

  • Select 'Library Guest Wireless' in your network settings
  • Once on the log-in page, scroll down and type in your email address and click accept to connect.

Please note that your connection time may be limited and that download limits may also be in place. You may also be disconnected at any time without notice by library staff.

By using the Library's WiFi you agree to keep to the Terms and Conditions or Acceptable Use Policy, these can be viewed online during your connection.

Wi-Fi printing at Central Library

Wireless cloud printing

  • Vist the cloud website: https://coventry.docprint.uk [https://coventry.docprint.uk/]
  • Type in your library membership number and PIN and select your library. If you are not yet a member, join for free online [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/joinalibrary] or visit your local library [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/findalibrary] with proof of name and address.
  • An upload box will appear on screen
  • Select the Choose file button
  • Browse for the document you wish to print and select Open
  • Click Upload file
  • You will see the following message on screen: "Success. Please collect your print job from the counter"
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter when you visit the library

Printing within the library (Print Assist Module)

To find out which version of Windows your device is running, press the Windows logo key and  i, then type About your PC

Or select Start > Settings > System > About

Using a Windows 10 device

  • Press the Windows Key and then type Printers in the search box
  • Select Printers and scanners
  • Select + Add a printer or scanner
  • If the required printer is visible, select the Add Device option
  • The printer should then be available for use from your device
  • If the required printer is not visible, select The printer that I want isn't listed
  • Tick the option Select a shared printer by name
  • Add the URL for the library’s printer https://coventry.wifiprint.uk/printers/coventry [https://coventry.wifiprint.uk/printers/coventry] in the box and then select the Next button
  • The Add Printer Wizard will connect to the virtual printer and ask you to select the manufacturer and model of your printer
  • Select Microsoft, then select Microsoft PS Class Driver and then select OK
  • The Add Printer Wizard should then confirm the printer has been added
  • Select Next and then Finish to complete the installation
  • The printer should then be available for use from your device
  • Open the document you wish to print
  • Select File and then Print
  • Select the correct printer and click Print
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter

  • Note: your device will remember the printer once you have installed it, and next time you wish to print from this printer, you will simply need to open your document, select File then Print, select the printer and click Print.

Using a Windows 7 device

  • Press the Windows Key and then type Printers in the search box
  • Select Devices and Printers, then select Add a printer
  • Select the option to Add network, wireless or Bluetooth printer
  • Select The printer that I want isn’t listed
  • Make sure ‘Select a shared printer by name’ is selected
  • Add the URL you have been provided https://coventry.wifiprint.uk/printers/coventry in the box and then select Next
  • The Add Printer Wizard will connect to the virtual printer and ask you to select the manufacturer and model of your printer
  • Select HP, then scroll down the list and select HP Colour LaserJet 2500 PS and then OK
  • The Add Printer Wizard should then confirm the printer has been added
  • Select Next and then Finish to complete the installation
  • The printer should then be available for use from your device
  • Open the document you wish to print
  • Select File and then Print if your document is a Microsoft Office document, or if you are printing a different type of document right click your mouse and then select Print
  • Select the correct printer and click Print
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter

  • Note: your device will remember the printer once you have installed it, and next time you wish to print from this printer, you will simply need to open your document, select File then Print, select the printer and click Print.

Using an Android device (phone or tablet)

  • Open the document or web page you wish to print
  • Depending on what device you are printing from and / or what type of document you are printing, the Print option may be accessed slightly differently. Find the Print option from the More (three dots) menu at the top or bottom of the page, or from the More (three lines) menu at the bottom of the page
  • In some cases you may then need to select the Share option in order to access Print
  • Next, select All printers from the printers drop down menu (click on the arrow for the drop down)
  • Select the library printer (the printer should automatically be available and visible and shouldn’t require any installation)
  • Select Print
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter

Using a MacOS device

  • Open the document you wish to print
  • Select File then Print
  • Click on Printer drop down
  • Select Add Printer
  • Select the required printer
  • Click Add
  • Select Print
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter
  • Note: your device will remember the printer once you have installed it, and next time you wish to print from this printer, you will simply need to open your document, select File then Print, select the printer and click Print.

Using a Chrome OS device

  • Open the document you wish to print
  • Select Print
  • Select Destination
  • Select See more
  • The library printer should be visible
  • Select the printer
  • Select Print
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter

Using an iOS device (iPhone or iPad)

  • Open the document you wish to print
  • Click on the share icon
  • Select Print
  • Select the library printer from the drop-down list at the top of the screen
  • Click the print icon
  • Your document is now in the print queue ready for you to pay and release at the library counter

Scanning and printing using your own device

Scan and print using an Android device (phone or tablet)

  • Open the Camera on your device
  • Place your document in view of the camera
  • The camera will detect a document and you will see a yellow box around the edges of the document image and a ‘Tap to Scan’ option on the screen
  • Hit Tap to Scan
  • If you’re happy with the scan, tap Save
  • The scan is now saved in your Gallery and available to be printed if required using Wi-Fi

Scan and print using an iOS device (iPhone or iPad)

  • Open Notes and select a note or create a new one
  • Tap the Camera button, then tap Scan Documents
  • Place your document in view of the camera
  • If your device is in Auto mode, your document will automatically scan
  • Tap Save or add additional scans to the document
  • The scan is now saved in your Notes and available to be printed if required using Wi-Fi

See the full list of Library fees and charges including printing charges. [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/libraries-1/join-find-use/12]

Libraries and Information Service

Address: Central Library
Smithford Way
Coventry
CV1 1FY

Telephone: 024 7683 2314 [tel:02476832314]

Online safety

Internet safety guidance from your library

Surfing the internet can be great fun, but here are some SMART rules that will keep you safe while you surf:

  • Safe - keep safe by being careful not to give out personal information such as your name, e-mail address, home address, phone number or school name to people who you don't trust online.
  • Meeting - someone you have only been in touch with online can be dangerous. Only do so with your parents' or carers' permission and even then only when they can be present.
  • Accepting - emails, IM messages, or opening files, pictures or texts from people you don't know or trust can lead to problems - they may contain viruses or nasty messages!
  • Reliable - someone online may be lying about who they are, and information you find on the internet may not be reliable
  • Tell - your parent, carer or a trusted adult if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried. Report online abuse to the Police [https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/].

Internet safety websites

Here are some useful websites with information on internet safety for children and adults:

Worried or upset?

If something that has happened to you on the internet has upset you, you can call Childline's free 24-hour helpline on 0800 1111 or visit the Childline website [https://www.childline.org.uk/].

Please note: We are not responsible for the content of other organisations' websites.

Libraries and Information Service

Address: Central Library
Smithford Way
Coventry
CV1 1FY

Telephone: 024 7683 2314 [tel:02476832314]

Cov Connects – National Databank

The National Databank

Using a mobile phone with Cov Connect logo

Are you struggling to get connected to the internet due to rising costs?  

If so, come and visit any of the 5 libraries listed here: Central Library, Bell Green Library, Foleshill Library, Stoke Library and Tile Hill Library where we are distributing data to residents that qualify.  

Find out if you are eligible for this support: Connectivity and equipment – Coventry City Council [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/cov-connects/connectivity-devices/3].

Digital creativity in Coventry Libraries

Interested in the listed events? Visit our what's on in Libraries page [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/whatsonlibraries] to find out more.

Digital offer

Not aware of our digital offer? Visit the below pages to find out more:

Get in touch

Weather watchers

Did you know you can create your own weather reports and post them on the BBC Weather watchers' website [https://www.bbc.co.uk/weatherwatchers].

You will need to create a free BBC ID before creating a report, which requires an email address. Don't forget to share your reports with Coventry Libraries on social media.

Download your free guide [https://downloads.bbc.co.uk/learning/makeitdigital/Weather_Watchers_Booklet.pdf].

Augmented reality book reviews

Exhibition at Central Library

From Wednesday 11 October 2017 to Wednesday 26 September 2018 Central Library [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/centrallibrary] exhibited an augmented reality book reviews display space.

Whats is an augmented reality book review?

An augmented reality book review is a recorded book review which has been linked to a book cover, which can be scanned and viewed using the camera on your smartphone or tablet.

The exhibition contained 25 book review videos recorded by Radford primary school [https://www.radfordprimaryacademy.org.uk/]:

  • Billionaire Boy by David Walliams 1
  • Boy in a dress by David Walliams 2
  • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
  • Diary of a wimpy kid by Jeff Kinney 1
  • Diary of a wimpy kid by Jeff Kinney 2
  • Dork Diaries by Rachel Renee Russell
  • Four Children and IT by Jacqueline Wilson
  • Framed by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Goosebumps by R.L. Stine
  • Hacker by Malorie Blackman 1
  • Hacker by Malorie Blackman 2
  • Hacker by Malorie Blackman 3
  • Harry Potter and the philosopher's stone by JK Rowling
  • Horrid Henry's Underpants by Francesca Simon
  • Matilda by Roald Dahl
  • Monster Manners by Rory Growler
  • Mr Stink by David Walliams 1
  • Mr Stink by David Walliams 2
  • Mr Stink by David Walliams 3
  • Mr Stink by David Walliams 4
  • Pokemon Manga by Satoshi Tajiri
  • Quest for justice by Sean Faye Wolf
  • The great Egyptian grave robbery by Jeff Brown
  • The Tempest by Andrew Matthews

Including a special book review by Megan Nicholson [https://twitter.com/munchkinmeggie]

  • Alex Rider - Point blanc by Anthony Horowitz

Created through investment from Arts Connect [https://www.artsconnect.co.uk/]

We are on Spotify

Coventry Libraries and information service have a Spotify account!

Spotify is a digital music, podcast, and video streaming service that gives you access to millions of songs and other content from artists all over the world. Basic functions such as playing music are free! Learn more about Spotify [https://support.spotify.com/is/using_spotify/the_basics/what-is-spotify/].

Once you have signed up, check out our Get it loud in Libraries playlist [https://open.spotify.com/user/covlibraries/playlist/7lydpvgAIJ52KGm96YAxlc?si=XJZs50HyQyuItOvb2w9Phw], where you can listen to all of the artists who have recently played at Central Library, such as Jorja Smith [http://jorjasmith.com/] and The Amazons [http://theamazons.co.uk/].

Did you know Coventry Central Library used to be a nightclub called the Locarno? (Later renamed Tiffanys). Many great bands played there back in the 70s & 80s. You can also listen to our Locarno playlist [https://open.spotify.com/user/covlibraries/playlist/6hYlN8tNbnvXNWO6CKPtts?si=AvmLEVwyT9qfyaaez8exUg] that includes bands such as The Specials and The Who.

Follow Covlibraries [https://open.spotify.com/user/covlibraries?si=NBhnug6pS42-E2XGDhj6-g] on Spotify if you would like to access our latest playlists. The Spotify app is available to download for free via: Windows [https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/store/p/spotify/9wzdncrfj4wk], Google play and Apple store [https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/spotify-music/id324684580?mt=8].

Library device loan

Borrow a Chromebook with Coventry Libraries and #CovConnects

Adult library members (16yrs+) can apply to loan Chromebook and EE dongle (if required) for up to 12 weeks for free.

Coventry Libraries are proud to provide reliable access to computers and WiFi, but sometimes you need more time and without your own equipment this can be a barrier. The device loan scheme is intended to support those that are digitally excluded due to access, ability or affordability.

Are you open to exploring a laptop for the first time? Interested in acquiring skills for email or chat usage? Seeking to boost your confidence in navigating computers? Perhaps you are applying for jobs or trying to fill out important forms on your phone?

You can apply to loan a Chromebook using the application form [https://myaccount.coventry.gov.uk/service/Coventry_libraries_device_loan_application_and_survey], call 024 7683 2314 or speak to library staff.

You will be invited to an appointment where library staff will supply the Chromebook, provide set up instructions and brief digital information based on your needs.

During the appointment you will be asked to sign the loan agreement [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/downloads/download/7821/device-loan-agreement].

The Service operates from the following libraries: Central, Bell Green, Foleshill, Stoke, Tile Hill

We would also welcome feedback and ask you to complete a returning device survey [https://myaccount.coventry.gov.uk/service/Coventry_libraries_device_loaning_survey] after you return the device to help demonstrate the impact of the service.

Useful further information:

Coding basics with Micro:bit

Micro:bits 

You can now borrow a Micro:bit from Coventry Libraries. Whether you're looking to explore coding, electronics, or just have some fun with technology, our Micro:bits are available for loan. Visit your local branch or check our online catalogue for more details.

You can use your Micro:bit for all sorts of cool creations, from robots to musical instruments. The possibilities are endless. The micro:bit is a handheld, fully programmable computer widely used in schools. It's 70 times smaller and 18 times faster than the original BBC Micro computers used in schools in the early 1980s.

This little device has an awful lot of features, such as 25 red LED lights that can flash messages. There are two programmable buttons that can be used to control games or pause and skip songs on a playlist. Your Micro:bit can detect motion and tell you which direction you're heading in, and it can use a low energy Bluetooth connection to interact with other devices and the Internet.

To create codes for your Micro:bit please visit the Micro:bit website [https://www.microbit.co.uk/create-code]. To save your creations you will need to create a free account.

Learn more about the Micro:bit [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wuza5WXiMkc]

Loaning Microbits

Microbits are free to loan at Caludon, Central, Foleshill, Tile Hill and Willenhall Libraries. Anyone can loan a Micro:bit for up to 4 weeks.

What You Need

  • Micro:bit Basic Kit (Micro:bit V1, USB cable, battery pack, instructions)
  • Laptop with USB Connection
  • Internet Access

All Micro:bits are free to reserve in any Library or online via www.coventry.gov.uk/librarycatalogue [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/librarycatalogue]

Explore More with Tutorials

For more fun activities and to learn more about what you can do with your Micro:bit, check out the tutorials on the MakeCode website [https://makecode.microbit.org/]. These tutorials will guide you through a variety of projects, helping you to explore and create more complex programs. There are other coding platforms and options listed on https://microbit.org/code [https://microbit.org/code].

Have fun and happy coding!

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