Programmers To Build Detroit Public Library App In 24 Hours

By Edward Cardenas

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) - Automation Alley is hosting a hackathon to build an app for the Detroit Public Library.

The 24-hour competition, titled #hackDPL, will be held in Automation Alley's Detroit office.

"We're excited to see what our participating #hackDPL coders can create for the Detroit Public Library," said Cynthia Hutchison, Automation Alley director of Member Relations, in a release. "The developers of the winning app are not only receiving a great cash prize, but they are also helping the library go digital to meet the needs of the public,"

Computers programmers and app developers can take part in the event from 7 p.m. July 11 to 7 p.m. July 12. The developers of the winning app will receive a cash prize of $5,000.

The goal of the event is to create a "mobile application will provide library users with interactive and instant communication, including alerts and notifications about Detroit Public Library events, programs, closings and other important dates," according to organizers. Additionally, the app will also allow users to search the library's catalog and order books and e-books.

Participants can submit their resumes to info@automationalley.com.

There is a $15 cost to participate, and is limited to 100 people. To help power developers, participants will receive a 5-hour Energy boost at midnight, breakfast and lunch as well as a 5-hour Energy boost at midnight. For more information or to register, visit the Automation Alley website.