You’ve probably heard about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. These use a technology called a blockchain. In this webinar, you’ll learn about the latest developments with blockchain technologies (beyond currencies) and discuss possible applications for libraries. What is Blockchain Technology?  According to Blockchain Explained, from Reuters, “A blockchain is a database that is shared across a peer-to-peer network of computers. Once a record has been added to the chain it is very difficult to change. To ensure all the copies of the database are the same, the network makes constant checks. Blockchains have been used to underpin cyber-currencies like Bitcoin, but many other possible uses are emerging.”  Blockchains explained
We’ll cover the fol1owing:

1. What is a blockchain?
2. How does it work?
3. Examples of use (online education, charities, voting, legal contracts, provenance, getting around censorship)
4. Why it matters
5. Where is it in the Hype Cycle?
6. Is it likely to be passing fad or an important trend?
7. Who are some of the key players? (organizations, companies
8. What are some ethical concerns?
9. How might it help individuals?
10. How might it help people with disabilities?
11. Can it help bridge the digital divide?
12. How might libraries use it?
13. How might we experiment with it in library settings?
14. Which time frame applies?

• It’s a bit far off in the future, but good to understand.
• It’s coming soon, important to learn more now.
• It’s already here, and worth experimenting with in libraries.

15. Resources for learning more

OUTCOMES

• Become knowledgeable about blockchain technologies.
• See examples of services and companies powered by blockchain technology.
• Get inspired to imagine blockchain-based solutions for problems that libraries face.
• Know the best resources for learning more.

This webinar is part of a series about specific emerging technologies and their implications for libraries by Nicole Hennig, author of Keeping Up with Emerging Technologies: Best Practices for Information Professionals.

​Presenter: Nicole Hennig is an expert in mobile technologies for libraries. In her 14 years of experience at the MIT Libraries, she won awards for innovation, and worked to keep academics up to date with the best mobile technologies. Now she has her own business helping librarians stay current with new technologies. She is the author of several books, including Keeping Up with Emerging Technologies, and Apps for Librarians.

Like most librarians, she is passionate about access to information for all. Librarians who take her courses are becoming technology experts for their communities. To stay current with the best mobile technologies, sign up for her email newsletter, Mobile Apps News, and follow her on twitter @nic221, where she tweets about libraries, apps, and emerging technologies.