Website: Google Dataset Search

GOOGLE DATASET SEARCH is a search tool for locating datasets.

This Google search tool helps users locate datasets using a simple keyword search. The search accesses thousands of data repositories available on Internet.

Read the ABOUT section for more details about the project. As repositories increasingly use standards for describing datasets, more resources will be available through this search.

For some examples, try a search for flu, volcanoes, travel alerts, climate change, malnutrition, and air quality.

Librarians will find that data literacy is an increasingly important information skill. Use the Google Dataset Search to locate example datasets and discuss ways to approach data literacy with teachers.

To visit the website, go to https://toolbox.google.com/datasetsearch.

Website Review: Performing Arts

PERFORMING ARTS from Google Cultural Institute provides 360 degree views of the world’s greatest performers on stage.

The Performing Arts element of Google’s Cultural Institute provides access to a series of performances on stages around the globe. Each short performance can be viewed from different camera angles. Performances can explore the areas of music, opera, theater, dance, and performance art.

Librarians will find these interactive experiences provide an amazing introduction to different types of performing arts. Ask students to watch one in each category and compare the different forms of art.

To visit the website, go to https://performingarts.withgoogle.com/en_us.

Technology Review: Google's Advanced Video Search

The Google’s ADVANCED VIDEO SEARCH is a useful and often overlooked resource for locating video materials.

One of many search tools available at the Google website, users have many options for narrowing their results. First, the search tool offers options for word searches. Then, ideas are provided for narrowing results. Users can search by language, video length, posting date, video quality, and whether the video contains subtitles. Searches can also be conducted within a particular domain such as YouTube or National Geographic.

A particularly useful tool is SafeSearch. This option allows users to filter explicit results. Be sure to use the filter when searching for animal videos or you may be in for an unwelcome surprise.

Finally, links are provided to additional search strategies available through Google.

Librarians will find this tool to be a quick way to locate videos for classroom activities. Of particular note is the option to find videos by duration. For those working with children with special needs, be sure to note the choice to search for closed caption resources.

To try a Google Video search, go tohttps://www.google.com/advanced_video_search.

Website Review: Build with Chrome

The BUILD WITH CHROME website provides users skills and tools for building exciting digital LEGO projects.

The LEGO Master Builder Academy section takes users through a series of challenges to help develop LEGO construction skills. Users are provided with tools and directions for creating basic projects. Completion of projects leads to new levels.

The WORLD OF BUILD area provides a map showing LEGO projects that have been created around the world. Users can pick a spot and add their own work.

The LEGO Build section displays a plate and bricks. Users can build their own projects. Users can share their work with others by copying the URLs provided.

Librarians can use this website as part of a display featuring LEGO books, bricks, and other materials related to the LEGO theme.

To visit the website, go to https://www.buildwithchrome.com/.

Website Review: Made With Code

MADE W/ CODE is a Google Project focusing on inspiring girls to pursue careers related to computer science. Their Holiday Lights project is a fun and easy way to introduce the concept of coding. #MadeWithCode

The PROJECTS section provides beginner, intermediate, and advanced coding projects that involve youth in coding snowflakes, avatars, and other fun activities.

The MAKERS section highlights girls who are making a difference in the world through coding. Watch short videos featuring these young women.

The MENTORS section includes short videos from women of all ages and backgrounds who have used coding to reach their dreams. From musicians and filmmakers to activists and storytellers the testimonials illustrate the power of technology.

Use the COMMUNITY, EVENTS, and RESOURCES sections to jumpstart your own MADE W/ CODE program in your library. Connect the website with computer software, apps, and library books young people can use in coding projects. You can even download a kit for a library code party!

Go to https://www.madewithcode.com/ for the general website.
Go to https://holidays.madewithcode.com/project/lights for the Code the Holidays Project.

Website Review: Google Cultural Institute

GOOGLE CULTURAL INSTITUTE is an astounding online resource focusing on art, history, and world wonders. It even contains powerful tools for creating online galleries and exhibits.

The Art Project section includes art collections from around the world. Users can browse the exhibits, zoom in for an up-close examination, and take virtual tours of art museums. Artwork can be searched by creator, medium, event, place, person, media, and date.

The Historical Moments area contains online exhibitions focusing on significant moments from human history. Exhibits represent the photos and historical artifacts of museums and personal collections. Historical materials can be browsed or searches. Don’t miss the new First World War and World War II: D-Day exhibits.

The World Wonders section brings both the modern and ancient world heritage sites to life using Google Street view. Like the other exhibits, the materials can be searched or browsed.

Tools allow users to share, compare, and save the collections. Those interested in building their own collections can “request an invite” to participate.

To learn more about the exhibits, go to https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute.
To build your own exhibit using their powerful online tools, go to https://www.google.com/opengallery