Week eight is (almost) history--how time flies....
This assisnment was to explore the library myspace or facebook. I choose myspace (don't really think I'm ready for facebook).
The library's page was interesting--lots of unusual friends. The blogs were also timely and informative about the library.
I can see both of these sites as being very helpful to our patrons--I just wish they had more information about the ongoing programs and upcoming events at the library. Both these social networking sites are great for promoting yourself, reconnecting with long lost friends, and in the library's case, introducting the new generation to the new library. There are still many people in this community who are not even aware that the library has dvd's--but then, these are probably not the patrons who would be checking us out on a social network site!Anyway, the journey was worth the trip--learned a lot of new techie things and I hope to be able to put them to use somewhere down the line. Thanks, Alicia, for taking us on this ride!

Week 8--not an easy lesson. I can see how podcasts would be beneficial in helping libraries get out info about programs, library events, and even tutorials about the use of online databases. With so many people now accessing the web through pda's, iphones, and smartphones, libraries would be really out of the loop not to take advantage of this type of publicity.
The amount and type of information available through podcasting was amazing. Any topic or thought can be produced for podcasting. I am always amazed that some people want to share the most finite details of their thoughts and actions.
For myself, I choose a news podcast because it's something I can relate to. Always want to know whats happening in the world.

Week 7 already?!?? Seems like we just started this "learning experiment". Anyway, this weeks lesson was tagging. I must admit, this was not one of my favorites. It was interesting to see how tags are used and how they would be really helpful to those who DO use the social networking sites, but unfortunately, I'm not one of them. It would be great to have this tool to help keep your blogs in some sort of order--it would make it easier to search by a topic or statement. I will keep exploring and maybe find a use for this that could be helpful to me.

Ok, I just tried something new. I added a "gadget" to my blog--a news ticker. This allows me to check new stories while logged on the my blog. Love it!

This weeks lesson was interesting. The google docs application would be great for anyone who wants a convenient place to create and manage spread sheets, powerpoints and documents without having to use an Office program. Great for people on the go who don't want to be tied to one pc to complete their work. The wiki feature was also interesting. I checked out the ALA 2.0 wiki and read about the testing of BlackBerry phones for use at reference. Interesting concept. Portable email and phone that would enable reference staff to be more mobile and not tied to a desk. Maybe an idea whose time has come?
Looking forward to the next assignment. This has been an interesting learning experience. I've tried things I wouldn't have otherwise.