Ohio’s Virtual Reference Service Receives $1.12M Approval

The State Library Board of Ohio has approved $1.12 million in Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds for year two of the state’s innovative KnowItNow 24x7 (www.knowitnow.org) virtual reference service. This free online reference service, which is available to all Ohio residents, makes librarians available around the clock to answer reference questions and assist users in finding information via live chat sessions. It also provides homework assistance and additional informational resources for students. The new funds will be used to update training for participating libraries, extending tutoring hours, providing staff during holidays, as well as launching the KnowItNow service in Spanish at three libraries beginning Sept. 15.

Featured

  • AI-powered individual working calmly on one side and a burnt-out person slumped over a laptop on the other

    AI's Productivity Gains Come at a Cost

    A recent academic study found that as companies adopt AI tools, they're not just streamlining workflows — they're piling on new demands. Researchers determined that "AI technostress" is driving burnout and disrupting personal lives, even as organizations hail productivity gains.

  • three silhouetted education technology leaders with thought bubbles containing AI-related icons

    Ed Tech Leaders Rank Generative AI as Top Tech Priority

    In a recent CoSN survey, an overwhelming majority of ed tech leaders (94%) said they see AI as having a positive impact on education. Respondents ranked generative AI as their top tech priority, with 80% reporting their districts have gen AI initiatives underway, or plan to in the current school year.

  • blue AI cloud connected to circuit lines, a server stack, and a shield with a padlock icon

    Report: AI Security Controls Lag Behind Adoption of AI Cloud Services

    According to a recent report from cybersecurity firm Wiz, nearly nine out of 10 organizations are already using AI services in the cloud — but fewer than one in seven have implemented AI-specific security controls.

  • lightbulb

    Call for Speakers Now Open for Tech Tactics in Education: Overcoming Roadblocks to Innovation

    The annual virtual conference from the producers of Campus Technology and THE Journal will return on Sept. 25, 2025, with a focus on emerging trends in cybersecurity, data privacy, AI implementation, IT leadership, building resilience, and more.