Web Service APIs and Libraries

June 1, 2013

Application programming interfaces (APIs) are powerful tools that help programmers and developers take advantage of a wealth of external online data sources to build software and services. Michel (user experience librarian, Miami Univ. Libs., OH) explores the possibilities APIs offer libraries and how to integrate library-related content into library websites and catalogs. He discusses ten resources: Twitter, Flickr, Vimeo, Google Charts, OCLC, HathiTrust, Open Library, LibraryThing, Goodreads, and Google Books, highlighting engaging ways to use their content. Michel begins each chapter with potential services that the API discussed could enhance and offers examples of its use in libraries, a technical explanation of the API, and step-by-step instructions (including specific coding) on building the application. Unfortunately, the Amazon takeover of Goodreads may temper some of his creative ideas for the nearly 50 APIs Goodreads offers. He advocates using APIs to create content mashups on web pages, as well as to provide users with enhanced options in the library catalog. VERDICT An inspiring and usable primer for programmers and developers. Highly recommended for libraries with in-house technology teams and essential for geeks, programmers, and developers working in book-related industries. [Michel is one of LJ's 2013 Movers &Shakers; see LJ 3/15/13 p. 65.--Ed.]--Candice Kail, Columbia Univ. Libs., New York

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