Sunday Sundries

Miscellaneous items I found of interest during the week.

MyHeritage Theory of Family Relativity Update
Combining your DNA matches and their family trees, this updated MyHeritage service provides "theories" about possible common ancestors. If you have DNA results at MyHeritage and have posted an associated family tree check for an update. The total number of Theories has increased from 6 to 14 million and more than 46% have at least one Theory. Sadly I'm in the majority — no Theories. Check out Roberta Estes blog post to learn more.

Advance Notice: Book Donations
If you're coming to the OPL free 8 August DNA and Online Resources for Discovering Your Lost Family History event BIFHSGO and Ottawa Branch suggest you consider bringing a surplus non-fiction or fiction book in good condition from your collection as a thank you donation. More later.

Scotland and Maps
What's with Scotland and maps? The NLS continues a major project of map digitization. Now there's a book Scotland – Mapping the Islands reviewed on Paul Milner's blog about which he writes "The knowledgeable authors present the rich and diverse story of Scottish islands from the earliest maps to the most up-to-date digital mapping in engaging and imaginative ways. This book is an informative delight to read and view."

The NYT Privacy Project

Public Library Virtual Reality
"Virtual reality library programs give local residents the opportunity to explore the emerging technology and to let them see its potential uses as an educational tool."

Fake News in Canada's Election

Have you seen the hashtag #TrudeauMustGo on Twitter? According to this post much of the activity surrounding the hashtag, which has seen it periodically appear in the top ten most tweeted here, was driven by accounts tweeting at non-human rates, including about two dozen accounts created in the past 48 hours.”
Be careful about what you read and believe.

Why this man became a hermit at 20

A Plea For Shade
In summer we walk in the shade; in winter the sunny side of the street. In a changing climate, how can we favour an urban design that optimizes comfort?