I really like your idea, and we have this same problem. I'm wondering if Arduino might be a reasonable solution: http://arduino.cc/playground/Main/InterfacingWithHardware

Jason

----- Reply message -----
From: "Ellen K. Wilson" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: [CODE4LIB] whimsical homepage idea
Date: Tue, May 1, 2012 2:39 pm


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
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