On 19.05.2015 22:52, Douglas Scott wrote:
We do however need a longer term vision/strategy for libraries. Additionally I am also open to other ideas and possible projects with which we can engage with libraries on, especially if they lend them selves to scalability. One such possible project is the roll-out of Kiwix (offline Wikipedia) local wifi devices in smaller/rural libraries that dont have internet access in South Africa. Theresa is bringing two such devices to South Africa with her from the Berlin Chapters conference. The idea there is for us to use these 2 demonstration models to show local governments and departments of education the power of this technology so that it could be rolled out across South Africa (or beyond). With smart phones and other wifi enabled devices becoming ever cheaper (for as little as R450 these days) the barrier to access to Wikipedia is increasingly becoming the high cost of data. Kiwix would not have this cost whilst providing a free offline version of Wikipedia in a local area. Great for a small library/classroom/field/town centre that does not have any form of free internet access.
At Kiwix, we want to focus more on public domain books/literature offline for libraries. We want to expand our offer and continue the effort started with the Gutenberg project. Therefore, we are currently searching a sponsor for a 40K USD big project to achieve to create a library with 10.000 PD books in French.
Emmanuel