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Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

Navigating the AI Landscape: A Comprehensive Guide

January 30th, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force across various fields. Whether you are a student, researcher, or educator, staying abreast of AI developments is crucial. Luckily, Dr. Jing Lu, clinical assistant professor of library science, has curated an extensive collection of AI resources, providing a valuable hub for AI enthusiasts at Purdue. “My goal for creating this guide is to empower students, faculty, and researchers with a curated collection of resources that not only navigate the vast landscape of artificial intelligence but also foster a community where knowledge and innovation thrive,” said Lu. She envisions faculty utilizing the guide as a reference to integrate the latest AI technologies into classrooms, recognizing that the evolving industry may soon require students in all fields to adeptly navigate AI tools in their work.
Jing Lu, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Library Science

In her guide, you will find AI tools available and recommended for various fields, including AI tools for research, AI tools for teaching and learning, as well as AI tools for creating images. Lu shares which of these resources are available for free and which subscriptions require a monthly fee. Purdue Libraries is currently actively exploring avenues to make premium AI tools, typically available through paid subscriptions, accessible to all students, showcasing our continued commitment to fostering inclusive access to cutting-edge resources.

Lu also provides guidance on how to cite AI materials, ensuring that researchers and students adhere to the highest standards of academic integrity. Citing AI sources correctly is crucial in academic and research settings. Lu also emphasizes that the efficiency of AI tools often depends on the design and quality of the prompts provided by the user, therefore offers insights into crafting effective queries in her guide. Whether you are a novice or an experienced AI user, these resources will enhance your ability to extract meaningful information from AI applications. 

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding AI is crucial for researchers and content creators. The guide also offers insights into copyright issues related to AI and publisher policies, ensuring that users are equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate legalities and comply with intellectual property regulations. At Purdue, we are also fortunate to have a seasoned expert who stands ready to provide guidance and advice to students, faculty, and researchers navigating the intricacies of copyright issues and related inquiries. Dr. Donna Ferullo, director of the University Copyright Office, can be reached via email at ferullo@purdue.edu or phone at (765) 496-3864. Ferullo’s latest book “Copyright: Best Practices for Academic Libraries,” which was published in August, also offers advice and best practices for the application of copyright law to AI and other new technologies. 

For further assistance or questions, Boilermakers can reach Dr. Jing Lu at (765) 494-1352 or via email at lu59@purdue.edu


Empowering Research: A Trio of Open Science Workshops to Ignite Innovation

January 26th, 2024


Embark on a journey of knowledge and innovation as we present a trilogy of Open Science workshops designed to empower researchers and foster collaboration. Join us for three engaging sessions led by experts in the field, each offering unique insights and practical tools to enhance your research endeavors. Mark your calendars for these upcoming sessions that promise to elevate your understanding of reproducibility, introduce you to the Open Science Framework, and navigate the opportunities of Open Access publishing.


Workshop #1: Maximizing Research Reproducibility with Chao Cai, Ph.D.
“Promoting Reproducible Science: How to manage and share your research data”

Date: February 12, 2024
Time: 2:00 to 3:30 PM
Location: WALC 2088

Reproducibility of research is a key scientific practice gaining attention from funding agencies. Join Dr. Chao Cai, an Assistant Professor and Plant Sciences Information Specialist, on February 12th, as he provides hands-on experience and knowledge for managing quantitative data to maximize research reproducibility. Learn about the principles of FAIR data and effective practices for sharing research data through a data repository.

In case you missed Cai’s talk, you can watch the recorded version here.


Workshop #2: Unleashing Open Research Potential with Reid Boehm, Ph.D.
“Introduction to the Open Science Framework: A platform to facilitate open research”

Date: March 1, 2024
Time: 10:00 to 11:15 AM
Location: WALC 2051

On March 1st, explore the Open Science Framework (OSF) with Dr. Reid Boehm, Research Data Systems Manager. The OSF is a free platform that supports researchers in managing, sharing, and collaborating on projects. Gain insights into its features, functions, and flexible utilities that cater to diverse aspects of the open research process. This workshop is your gateway to harnessing the benefits of OSF as a Purdue University affiliate.

In case you missed Boehm’s talk, you can watch the recorded version here.


Workshop #3: Navigating Open Access Publishing with Nina Collins, M.L.I.S.
“Open Access Publishing: Opportunities and pathways for wider dissemination of your scholarship”

Date: April 1, 2024
Time: 2:00 to 3:30 PM
Location: WALC 3090

Join Nina Collins, an advocate for Open Access, to navigate the world of Open Access publishing. This workshop will delve into the challenges researchers face and uncover the multitude of pathways available for Purdue authors. Learn how Open Access Publishing Partnerships can remove financial barriers, providing opportunities for broader dissemination, use, and impact of your scholarly work. Don’t miss this chance to explore ethical publishing practices and increase your scholarly impact.

Embark on this comprehensive exploration of Open Science and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to drive your research forward. We invite you to attend these workshops, engage with experts, and contribute to the vibrant culture of openness and collaboration in our academic community.

In case you missed Cai’s talk, you can watch the recorded version here.


American Fiction, 1774-192 – HSSE Featured Database

January 25th, 2024

Humanities, Social Science and Education Library’s Featured Database will give you a very brief introduction to the basic features of one of our specialized subscription databases. This time we’re featuring American Fiction, 1774-1920 by Gale.

Link: https://guides.lib.purdue.edu/db/amfic

Access the databases off-campus with your Purdue login and password.

Focus: This database contains more than 17,800 titles feature prose fiction written by Americans from the political beginnings of the United States through the end of the World War I. It allows research to explore how American literature developed in a changing culture. Works include novels, short stories, fictitious biographies, and travel accounts.

Tutorial: Click here see the basics of using the American Fiction, 1774-1920 database.

Quick tip: If you need the OCR (optical character recognition) version of the text for text mining or analyzation, you can view or download the document as OCR readable text.


Related Resources:

Other databases you might want to explore are:

American Periodicals: https://guides.lib.purdue.edu/db/aps
Early American Imprints, Series I: Evans: https://guides.lib.purdue.edu/db/eai


Supporting Student Success: Libraries’ Ongoing Commitment to Affordable Course Materials

January 22nd, 2024

At Purdue, we strongly believe the pursuit of knowledge should be accessible to all students. One significant aspect of ensuring affordability is the availability of affordable course materials. Libraries, as bastions of learning, play a crucial role in this endeavor. Our commitment to supporting students’ academic journey is evident through various initiatives aimed at making course materials more affordable and accessible, which has resulted in substantial cost savings:  For example, based on the lowest purchase price of a print book or ebook from online retailer Amazon, we have saved undergraduate and graduate students combined an estimated amount of $848,031.73 in the fall 2023 semester, a continuously increasing amount compared to the fall 2022 semester with estimated savings of $621,429.78 for our Boilermakers.  Learn more about the resources we offer to the Purdue community: 

Licensing Essential E-books:
Libraries actively licenses e-books that are designated as required texts for courses. What sets us apart is our willingness to go beyond official course lists. Instructors can email reserves@purdue.edu to inquire about the possibility of licensing supplemental or additional reading materials for their courses. It’s important to note that while we strive to provide online access to as many titles as possible, not all publishers may participate in this initiative.

Creating Library Reading Lists:
All Purdue instructors have the option to create Library Reading Lists, a versatile tool integrated with Brightspace. This tool allows them to link multiple course resources seamlessly. They can also submit requests for course materials through this system, contributing to the overall effort to make resources more accessible for students.

Purdue’s online course reserves system enables instructors to curate structured and comprehensive reading lists, taking into account copyright considerations. This ensures that the creation of such lists adheres to legal standards, promoting fair use and ethical access to educational resources.

Course Reserves:
When course material is available for purchase in print or can be licensed electronically for campus use, we make it a priority to acquire it. Instructors are encouraged to contact Libraries in advance of each semester with their course reserve requests. 

Open Education Resources (OERs):
Since 2013, Purdue has been a proud member of the Open Education Network. OERs are freely accessible and openly licensed materials, including text, media, and digital assets. By actively participating in the OER community, Purdue contributes to the global effort to make high-quality educational resources freely available.

Our ongoing commitment to affordable course materials is a testament to our dedication to student success. By leveraging innovative tools, engaging with OERs, and actively supporting instructors, we play a vital role in creating a more accessible and equitable educational experience for all students at Purdue. 

“Empowering students with access to essential course materials is at the core of our mission. I was delighted to share the news with my ENGR 103 class that, thanks to Libraries’ commitment and an unlimited license, they didn’t need to purchase the textbook. This not only saved them $2,368 collectively but also reflects the transformative impact Purdue Libraries can have on student affordability and success,” said Michael Witt, Associate Professor of Library Science. 

For further inquiries on ensuring affordable course materials, interested parties can reach out to Emily Little at eheitman@purdue.edu or reserves@purdue.edu


Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies Receives
Insight Into Diversity Magazine’s 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award

January 16th, 2024

National Recognition of Academic Libraries That Are Making a Difference for 
All Underrepresented Groups 

Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies received the 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award from Insight Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The LEAD Award honors academic libraries’ programs and initiatives that encourage and support DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) across their campus. These include, but are not limited to research, technology, accessibility, exhibitions, and community outreach. Purdue Libraries will be featured, along with 55 other recipients, in the March 2024 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine. 

“We are deeply honored to receive the 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award. The award stands as a testament to the dedication of our Libraries to strategies for equity, inclusion, diversity, accessibility, racial equity, and belonging. We are proud to be acknowledged as a role model for other institutions, and this honor motivates us to continue our efforts in creating an inclusive culture at Purdue Libraries,”  said Beth McNeil, dean of Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies. 

Insight Into Diversity magazine selected Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies for their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The establishment of the Council on Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in 2020 has played a crucial role. This council provides strategic leadership in the development of key partnerships within and outside of the Libraries which has resulted in compelling programming, providing opportunities for assessment on individual and organizational levels, imbedding DEI principles in hiring and onboarding practices, as well as forming strategic partnerships with the Big Ten Academic Alliance Library Initiatives. This recognition reflects Purdue Libraries dedication to creating an inclusive culture and fostering diversity.

“We know that many academic libraries are not always recognized for their dedication to diversity, inclusion, and access” says Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of Insight Into Diversity magazine. “We are proud to honor these college and university libraries as role models for other institutions of higher education.”

A call for nominations for this award was announced in October 2023. 

For more information about the 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award, visit insightintodiversity.com


About Insight Into Diversity
Insight Into Diversity magazine is the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education today. Insight is the leader in recognizing inclusive excellence in higher education through its many prestigious awards. They are also known for being the leader in advancing best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion through their website and print magazine. On Insight’s online Career Center readers will also discover career opportunities that connect job seekers with institutions and businesses that embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce. Current, archived, and digital issues of Insight Into Diversity magazine are available online at insightintodiversity.com.  


Featured Database: IBISWorld

January 16th, 2024

Parrish Library’s Featured Database will give you a very brief introduction to the basic features of one of our specialized subscription databases. This time we’re featuring IBISWorld, brought to you by a company of the same name.

Focus

IBISWorld provides data-drive reports on over 700 U.S. industries, 200 Chinese industries, and 70 global industries. Each report is approximately 30-40 pages in length.

Access

The List of Business Databases is the alphabetical list of the databases specially selected for those in a business program of study. Access the databases off-campus with your Purdue Career Account.

Tutorial

Click Getting Started with IBISWorld to watch the basics of using this database.

Related Resources

Some other resources you might want to explore are:

  • BizMiner contains detailed industry analysis for small and large businesses and entrepreneurs.
  • D&B Hoovers is an aggregate database of company, business news, and industry information.
  • Plunkett Research offers detailed industry reports, company profiles, and numerous statistics.

 


Featured Database comes to you from the Roland G. Parrish Library of Management & Economics. If you would like more information about this database, or if you would like a demonstration of it for a class, contact parrlib@purdue.edu. Also let us know if you know of a colleague who would benefit from this, or future Featured Databases.

Since usage statistics are an important barometer when databases are up for renewal, tell us your favorite database, and we will gladly promote it. Send an email to parrlib@purdue.edu.


Celebrating the Grand Reopening of the Library in Stewart Center: Purdue Libraries Opens Doors to a Transformed Learning Space

January 10th, 2024

After months of anticipation, the library in Stewart Center celebrated its grand reopening on January 8th, coinciding with the commencement of the spring semester. This momentous occasion marked the inaugural phase of the 2023 Libraries Master Plan execution, a culmination of meticulous refresh that has revitalized the library’s second and third floors.

Welcoming the audience, Beth McNeil, dean of Libraries and School of Information Studies, expressed her privilege in presenting the newly transformed library space. 

Dr. Patrick Wolfe, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs and Diversity, then highlighted the significance of the Stewart Center library as one of the busiest on campus, attracting students from diverse disciplines. Following his remarks, Shye Robinson, the current president of the Undergraduate Student Body, emphasized the crucial need to provide library space for Purdue’s ever-growing student body. As a passionate advocate for the library in Stewart Center, she hoped that the rising numbers of students enrolling at the university would share her enthusiasm for this particular learning hub.

The grand reopening is the result of a monumental project backed by a $10 million allocation from campus leadership, approved by the Board of Trustees in 2022. This funding played a pivotal role in the physical refresh of the library as well as the strategic relocation of thousands of print materials to an off-site repository located at 2550 Northwestern Ave. These books can be conveniently delivered to campus twice a day, ensuring enhanced accessibility and efficiency. 

Reflecting its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of the academic community, the library now boasts more seating, innovative study furniture, and increased technological capabilities, including additional electrical outlets. The reopening of these two floors signals the commencement of a new era of learning and collaboration, reaffirming Purdue’s dedication to providing a world-class academic environment for Boilermakers.


Grand reopening of the library in Stewart Center

January 5th, 2024

Purdue Libraries is Opening Doors

After months of meticulous redesign and makeover, marking the inaugural phase of the 2023 Libraries Master Plan execution, we are thrilled to present the newly revitalized space in the library in Stewart Center (HSSE).

You are cordially invited to celebrate the grand reopening of 2nd and 3rd floors on January 8, 2024. The library will open at 8:00 AM. Ribbon cutting and formal remarks will begin promptly at 1:00 PM on the third floor, followed by an open house where you can explore the new spaces.

Your presence will add greatly to the joy of the occasion. We look forward to opening our doors and sharing this special moment with you. All are welcome to attend.


Featured Database: PitchBook

December 5th, 2023

Parrish Library’s Featured Database will give you a very brief introduction to the basic features of one of our specialized subscription databases. This time we’re featuring a new resource, PitchBook, brought to you by Morningstar, Inc.

Focus

PitchBook contains private market data – startups, private equity and venture capital investors, angel investors, limited partners like foundations and sovereign wealth funds, and associated deals and funding rounds.

Please note that PitchBook has a download limit of 10 downloads per day, per user and 25 downloads per month, per user. 

Access

The List of Business Databases is the alphabetical list of the databases specially selected for those in a business program of study. Access the databases off-campus with your Purdue Career Account.

Tutorial

Click Getting Started with PitchBook to watch the basics of using this database.

Related Resources

Some other resources you might want to explore are:

  • Mergent Online provides access to company financial statements, ratios, and other qualitative data, SEC filings, analyst reports, a historical daily stock pricing back to 1925.
  • PrivCo includes business and financial data on major, non-publicly traded corporations, including family owned, private equity owned, venture backed, and international unlisted companies.

Featured Database comes to you from the Roland G. Parrish Library of Management & Economics. If you would like more information about this database, or if you would like a demonstration of it for a class, contact parrlib@purdue.edu. Also let us know if you know of a colleague who would benefit from this, or future Featured Databases.

Since usage statistics are an important barometer when databases are up for renewal, tell us your favorite database, and we will gladly promote it. Send an email to parrlib@purdue.edu.


Featured Database: Sage Video

November 14th, 2023

Parrish Library’s Featured Database will give you a very brief introduction to the basic features of one of our specialized subscription databases. This time we’re featuring Sage Video, brought to you by Sage Publications.

Focus

Sage Video includes in-depth interviews with experts from areas in Business & Management, Psychotherapy; Criminology & Criminal Justice; Education; Leadership; Media, Communication & Cultural Studies; Nursing; Politics & International Relations; Psychology; Social Work; and Sociology.

Access

The List of Business Databases is the alphabetical list of the databases specially selected for those in a business program of study. Access the databases off-campus with your Purdue Career Account.

Tutorial

Click Getting Started with Sage Video to watch the basics of using this database.

Related Resources

Some other resources you might want to explore are:

  • Sage Business Cases contains content covering topics such as accounting, business ethics & corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship, finance, and more.
  • Sage Skills: Business includes a range of multimedia content that allows students to practice real-world business and professional skills.

 


Featured Database comes to you from the Roland G. Parrish Library of Management & Economics. If you would like more information about this database, or if you would like a demonstration of it for a class, contact parrlib@purdue.edu. Also let us know if you know of a colleague who would benefit from this, or future Featured Databases.

Since usage statistics are an important barometer when databases are up for renewal, tell us your favorite database, and we will gladly promote it. Send an email to parrlib@purdue.edu.