Ellen, Sounds fun. I'd start with an Arduino + temperature sensor http://www.ladyada.net/learn/sensors/tmp36.html You'd need other kit to get it to a webserver, which this video covers nicely. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A7coLAUyfQ&feature=player_embedded Chad Nelson Web Services Programmer University Library Georgia State University e: [log in to unmask] t: 404 413 2771 My Calendar ________________________________________ From: Code for Libraries [[log in to unmask]] on behalf of Ellen K. Wilson [[log in to unmask]] Sent: Tuesday, May 01, 2012 3:39 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: [CODE4LIB] whimsical homepage idea This is really more of a thought experiment than an actual project, but I thought some people might get a kick out of it - maybe someone has even done it. We are in the process of redesigning our library homepage. During the fall semester we had a team of freshmen CIS students do a basic usability and design service learning project and we are now incorporating as much of their feedback as possible. We'd like to be as student-centric as possible. This got me thinking about the top two suggestions in the library's feedback box - 1) we want a coffee shop and 2) it's too cold/hot in the library. I figure I covered number one by throwing in some Javascript on the page (*groan*) but I see an opportunity with the second one. We do have microclimates within the library, so while it may be hot on 3N, chances are good it's freezing on 4S. Given that actually fixing this is beyond the library's control, what if we put wireless temperature sensors throughout the building and displayed their readings on the library homepage? So, if one were to attempt this: -How would you go about it? (hardware- or software-wise) -Could it be done for cheap? -Would it be OCLC-approved? Best regards, Ellen DISCLAIMER: The a/c is out in the library (again) and I think the high temperatures in my office may be frying my brain. -- Ellen Knowlton Wilson Instructional Services Librarian Room 250, University Library University of South Alabama 5901 USA Drive North Mobile, AL 36688 (251) 460-6045 [log in to unmask]