Author Chat: Literary History of Computing (Mountain View)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Julio Martinez, studio1500

Whether you’re an expert, student, or simply curious, how can you truly grasp what is happening in computing? One powerful answer has endured: “Read a book!”

In Readme, historian W. Patrick McCray explores how influential books shaped the trajectory of computing innovations and ideas that echo in the current AI revolution.

Here’s what you’ll experience at this fireside chat with the author:

• A literary history of computing through bestsellers like Giant Brains, Cybernetics, Computer Lib/Dream Machines, The Big Score, Microcosm, DOS for Dummies, and more.
• Insights into how these books didn’t just explain technology but also inspired visions that transformed computing.
• A fresh perspective on how a centuries-old technology remains a force for change and understanding.

Agenda

6:30 p.m.
Check-in Opens

7 p.m.
Program

8:20 p.m.
Book Signing

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.