Florida Dept of Transportation does have a sense of humor.....
Abortion and guns in 2024 spotlight
11 months ago
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Thing Whatever
Cool Myspace Generators
A great new book! Ask for it at your local library and drive the reference librarians crazy. Of course, many already are a bit touched!!!!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thing 23:Survey
I went back through my blog and a few others. "You've come a long way, baby" does not even come close to what I have been exposed to over the last three months. I am hoping my commitment will not fade over the next three months. Thanks Neflin for an eye opening experience. With your tools and my brain, I am hoping to find other ways to be a part of Web 2.0. So when is the next set of things coming out?
P.S. Why did the survey e-mail go to the junk e-mail when all the other newsletters and e-mails arrived in my box just fine?
P.S. Why did the survey e-mail go to the junk e-mail when all the other newsletters and e-mails arrived in my box just fine?
Friday, April 3, 2009
Thing New
This really is not a thing but I forgot to mention it in #20. This is a website that has fun graphics and a fairly complete list of authors. I use it if someone wants to read a similar author to the one they are reading. Kids and adults alike enjoy the display. The website is:
http://www.literature-map.com When you type in an author, you will see a list of other authors that spread out around the name you typed in. Those names that are closest in proximity are closest in genre and style. It's one that is fun to try.....
http://www.literature-map.com When you type in an author, you will see a list of other authors that spread out around the name you typed in. Those names that are closest in proximity are closest in genre and style. It's one that is fun to try.....
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Thing 22: Staying Current
Almost there....whew! Over the past few weeks, we have been guided through blogs, websites and shown aspects of the Internet that are new to some and old hat to others. We have been led to gather tools to put in a shiny new box. These are not items to gather dust and save like stamps or coins. Those we only take out occasionally and examine only to be re-stored for another time. The web tools are meant to be used either for personal use or for the job for which we are paid. I love having the right tool for the job. There is nothing more satisfying. (I would rather shop at the tool corral in Lowe's than any sale at Beall's.)But more than having the tool(s) we need to be familiar with how it is used, what the quirks are and what is the best way to use it. The more we show others how to use a tool, the more we ourselves become familiar with it.
Throughout this marathon of Internet scrutiny, I have realized that the main tool we need to exercise is our brain both for judgement and imagination. This incredible arsenal of tools enables us to be more aware of events, trends and the evolution of the library in the real world.
I pledge to continue my learning, my search for other aspects of Library/Web 2.0 but I will still not forget to look out the window and marvel at the trees and turkeys, I will smile and greet the patrons as they enter my domain and I will not forget the important people in my life. I will learn to move toward my goals and desires one step at a time. I will learn to love the doing and use the accumulation of time. When we multiply tiny increments of time with small increments of daily effort, we will find we can accomplish magnificent things. We can change the world.
It is pointless to think of lost hours of yesterday. The way to make learning, a lesson of celebration instead of a cause for regret is only to ask, "How can I put this to use today?"
Work like you do not need money,
Love like you have never been hurt
Dance like no one is watching.
Thank you for this odyssey. When is the next 23... bring it on!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Thing 21: Student 2.0 Tools
Where was this when I was in school? Where was this when I was working on that last thing? The Assignment Calculator is ideal for students working on projects either solo or in groups. The RPC and Teacher Guide are excellent resources for homeschoolers or high school students. Much of the information would serve the teachers well.
This website would be a benefit us in the children's department for setting up the summer reading programs and FLYP programs especially with the various deadlines for ordering materials and printing of flyers.
I think it would be interesting to take this a step further and have a merge of this organizational tool with the library's catalogue. That way it would help to preselect books needed for research. It's just an idea.
This website would be a benefit us in the children's department for setting up the summer reading programs and FLYP programs especially with the various deadlines for ordering materials and printing of flyers.
I think it would be interesting to take this a step further and have a merge of this organizational tool with the library's catalogue. That way it would help to preselect books needed for research. It's just an idea.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Thing 20: Books 2.0
Could this thing be any longer or am I just being too much of a perfectionist? (My husband would call it anal.)
Books On Your Phone
*BooksinMyPhone - First off I do not have a cell phone nor do I want one. As a driver watching other drivers pay more attention to their cell phones than the road, I hazard to guess what will happen when cell phone users are reading books as they are commuting to work. Multi-tasking is one thing but taking focus away from the primary task at hand can be hazardous to many people.
txt2ph requires an Internet-enabled phone (see above)
*DailyLit I actually liked this because of the RSS format (now that I know what that is). I also liked the variability of the installments and the fact that it can also come in the e-mail. The list of books that are free are not bad. However, paying to read a book that is totally electronic is not as tactile as having the book in one's own hands.
*Twitterlit -Seeing the first line of a book, without the author's name or book title, but with a link to Amazon so readers can see what book the line is from is fun. On top of that it is a hell of an advertising ploy.
Readers' Advisory
*ReadingTrails - At the trail intersections, you wander from trail to trail but it gets too confusing and often you can't find your way back to the beginning. I am a good navigator underwater and in the air but get me on the ground at night and forget about it. I know, I know get a GPS or Loran---I would rather keep it simple.
*BookLamp -Although in beta testing has a nice premise however they will need a great deal more books than just 300 to analyze.
*What Should I Read Next? This is another great advertising ploy for Amazon purchases. Our library database is What do I read next -it includes genre and assists us for patrons. I like it better.
What's Next? Which Book? Neither one of these were particularly helpful. I really prefer the following websites:
http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/ This has a database of 20,000 authors. You type in their name and it comes up with complete lists of their works -grouped by series.
For juvenile series I have found the following website to be beneficial.
http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us/ You input the name Nancy Drew for example and you will get a listing of the various series with the different books in the series. I use this frequently for the children's room.
*BookStumpers -This was not bad but I have no desire to pay for it.
Book Calendar - I like some of the synopsis but I was not exactly excited to get another feed.
Online Book Communities
*Overbooked - I enjoyed their categories including the section on adult books for teens (often an overlooked area). They also have good book reviews.
Readerville -This fascinated me merely because they mentioned a program from Knopf of a poem a day via RSS feeds. I do like poetry.
BookGlutton -This was interesting . I signed up for their newsletter. Now if I can only remember what website it goes to.
Book Group Resources
LitLovers- I believe this would be an exceptional site for homeschoolers or those individuals that need help starting book clubs. I liked the LitKids section and some of their book recommendations.
Reading Group Choices- Useful but not my cup of tea. WOW! am I already getting into the 2.0 mode.
*Booksprouts -Although in beta testing, this could be a good resource for book clubs.
Wired for Books- I first thought "Oh God not another gadget" but the number of authors, reading their own works, on this site is impressive and is a unique way of preserving them.
BooksVideos.tv see above.
Audio Books
*Librivox - Their goals are rather lofty but it what concerns me is the quality of the reading. Some people have a talent with their voice others it is like fingernails on a chalkboard. I wish them luck.
Podiobooks -This is like at the beginning where you can read books on your cell phone. Now you can listen to them on the computer.
Book Reviews
Metacritic .
The Complete Review
*BookBrowse
One Minute Critic
I agree with Neflin on this. BookBrowse does appear to have better critiques and they show a consensus of reviews. Although, I would much rather form my own opinion based on my own experience. It has been said that critics tend to be frustrated writers, but that can be a good thing because they know what is good they just can't emulate it.
Book Rental
BookSwim
BooksFree
Both of these seemed to be fairly interesting. I thought BookSwim was curious because of the textbooks that were made available. With the high cost of books this is a viable alternative for college students.
Book Swaps (Optional)
BookMooch
Paperback Swap
*SwapTree
*BookCrossing
I checked out all of these. BookMooch was actually recommended by our supervisor. First off, those books that I buy I usually want to keep. They are old friends who I love to visit with whether it is a chapter at a time or a page or two, or sometimes the whole book. Others that I have accumulated I give to the Library. If they do not need or want to add to the collection, I give them to the friends. The money they make all comes back to the library. So for me this is a better solution.
You talked about Kindle earlier and I wanted to comment. It is another way to obtain printed matter whether it is a newspaper, a magazine or a book. For physically impaired individuals, it is easier to hold than a book and the newer models add voice to the printed matter. It is a great way to deliver the daily newspaper so we can save a great many resources such as trees for paper. However, nothing beats the feel of a book as you turn pages and for me there is nothing more satisfying then reading the last line of a book and closing the back cover. I realize I am old school but for me reading a book affects and usually pleases all my senses (except taste-unless I am reading a cookbook).
Books On Your Phone
*BooksinMyPhone - First off I do not have a cell phone nor do I want one. As a driver watching other drivers pay more attention to their cell phones than the road, I hazard to guess what will happen when cell phone users are reading books as they are commuting to work. Multi-tasking is one thing but taking focus away from the primary task at hand can be hazardous to many people.
txt2ph requires an Internet-enabled phone (see above)
*DailyLit I actually liked this because of the RSS format (now that I know what that is). I also liked the variability of the installments and the fact that it can also come in the e-mail. The list of books that are free are not bad. However, paying to read a book that is totally electronic is not as tactile as having the book in one's own hands.
*Twitterlit -Seeing the first line of a book, without the author's name or book title, but with a link to Amazon so readers can see what book the line is from is fun. On top of that it is a hell of an advertising ploy.
Readers' Advisory
*ReadingTrails - At the trail intersections, you wander from trail to trail but it gets too confusing and often you can't find your way back to the beginning. I am a good navigator underwater and in the air but get me on the ground at night and forget about it. I know, I know get a GPS or Loran---I would rather keep it simple.
*BookLamp -Although in beta testing has a nice premise however they will need a great deal more books than just 300 to analyze.
*What Should I Read Next? This is another great advertising ploy for Amazon purchases. Our library database is What do I read next -it includes genre and assists us for patrons. I like it better.
What's Next? Which Book? Neither one of these were particularly helpful. I really prefer the following websites:
http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/ This has a database of 20,000 authors. You type in their name and it comes up with complete lists of their works -grouped by series.
For juvenile series I have found the following website to be beneficial.
http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us/ You input the name Nancy Drew for example and you will get a listing of the various series with the different books in the series. I use this frequently for the children's room.
*BookStumpers -This was not bad but I have no desire to pay for it.
Book Calendar - I like some of the synopsis but I was not exactly excited to get another feed.
Online Book Communities
*Overbooked - I enjoyed their categories including the section on adult books for teens (often an overlooked area). They also have good book reviews.
Readerville -This fascinated me merely because they mentioned a program from Knopf of a poem a day via RSS feeds. I do like poetry.
BookGlutton -This was interesting . I signed up for their newsletter. Now if I can only remember what website it goes to.
Book Group Resources
LitLovers- I believe this would be an exceptional site for homeschoolers or those individuals that need help starting book clubs. I liked the LitKids section and some of their book recommendations.
Reading Group Choices- Useful but not my cup of tea. WOW! am I already getting into the 2.0 mode.
*Booksprouts -Although in beta testing, this could be a good resource for book clubs.
Wired for Books- I first thought "Oh God not another gadget" but the number of authors, reading their own works, on this site is impressive and is a unique way of preserving them.
BooksVideos.tv see above.
Audio Books
*Librivox - Their goals are rather lofty but it what concerns me is the quality of the reading. Some people have a talent with their voice others it is like fingernails on a chalkboard. I wish them luck.
Podiobooks -This is like at the beginning where you can read books on your cell phone. Now you can listen to them on the computer.
Book Reviews
Metacritic .
The Complete Review
*BookBrowse
One Minute Critic
I agree with Neflin on this. BookBrowse does appear to have better critiques and they show a consensus of reviews. Although, I would much rather form my own opinion based on my own experience. It has been said that critics tend to be frustrated writers, but that can be a good thing because they know what is good they just can't emulate it.
Book Rental
BookSwim
BooksFree
Both of these seemed to be fairly interesting. I thought BookSwim was curious because of the textbooks that were made available. With the high cost of books this is a viable alternative for college students.
Book Swaps (Optional)
BookMooch
Paperback Swap
*SwapTree
*BookCrossing
I checked out all of these. BookMooch was actually recommended by our supervisor. First off, those books that I buy I usually want to keep. They are old friends who I love to visit with whether it is a chapter at a time or a page or two, or sometimes the whole book. Others that I have accumulated I give to the Library. If they do not need or want to add to the collection, I give them to the friends. The money they make all comes back to the library. So for me this is a better solution.
You talked about Kindle earlier and I wanted to comment. It is another way to obtain printed matter whether it is a newspaper, a magazine or a book. For physically impaired individuals, it is easier to hold than a book and the newer models add voice to the printed matter. It is a great way to deliver the daily newspaper so we can save a great many resources such as trees for paper. However, nothing beats the feel of a book as you turn pages and for me there is nothing more satisfying then reading the last line of a book and closing the back cover. I realize I am old school but for me reading a book affects and usually pleases all my senses (except taste-unless I am reading a cookbook).
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Thing 19: Other Social Networks
Web Junction is one of my social communities, providing that means I get the newsletter and read it. I also get FLYP newsletter and read that. Ning although visually appealing did not particularly interest me. I did enjoy some of the different lists of sites that you provided. College 2.0 was fun . I wished that was around when I went to college. However when I was in college I was learning FORTRAN, a computer language, and the computer filled a room the size of the Dunnellon Library. We had key punch cards to run the program. The equivalent these days of that computer would fit in a laptop.
Bake Space was fun but you can still get the recipes without joining. I realize this defeats the purpose of socializing but I never have been a social butterfly. The movie site was even more fun because my husband and I collect movies. We have all sorts of genre various series and quite a number of actors. Yes, I have it sorted and categorized in a database on my computer at home and the movies are labeled and shelved in a special area of my house. This is necessary since we have 2500 + movies (some VHS, some dvd, some copies and some originals).
I liked Fuzzster, but everyone seems to think that their pet is the brightest, cutest, funniest or whatever. I don't dare put my dogs on that site. They will just put all those other animals to shame. I already subscribe to GoodReads but I tried Shelfari on Forest Fomentation's recommendation.
I enjoyed this one. It is sort of like shelving books. Yesssss I do enjoy shelving, I like putting things in order. I can see this network as a source for opinions on books when I have yet to read the book.
Bake Space was fun but you can still get the recipes without joining. I realize this defeats the purpose of socializing but I never have been a social butterfly. The movie site was even more fun because my husband and I collect movies. We have all sorts of genre various series and quite a number of actors. Yes, I have it sorted and categorized in a database on my computer at home and the movies are labeled and shelved in a special area of my house. This is necessary since we have 2500 + movies (some VHS, some dvd, some copies and some originals).
I liked Fuzzster, but everyone seems to think that their pet is the brightest, cutest, funniest or whatever. I don't dare put my dogs on that site. They will just put all those other animals to shame. I already subscribe to GoodReads but I tried Shelfari on Forest Fomentation's recommendation.
I enjoyed this one. It is sort of like shelving books. Yesssss I do enjoy shelving, I like putting things in order. I can see this network as a source for opinions on books when I have yet to read the book.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Thing 18: Facebook and MySpace
Facebook me!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1616301577&ref=profile#/home.php?ref=home
Yikes 3 days and I am so far behind!!!!
No! No! I did not skip 17. 17 is between 16 and 16 revisited. Anyway getting back to facebook, I found that going through the tutorial videos to be very helpful. I went through more than just the one. ( I just wish I had done it before going to Facebook) It really helps to read the full lesson before starting. I joined a couple of groups and found 1 friend from the library program and discovered a number of old high school chums just by having my high school listed. I also wrote on the wall and sent a couple of messages to melloves23things. The last time I wrote on a wall and floor I was three and a half years old, wrote Zorro all over and my mother decided I was ready for school.
I also visited MySpace. I liked some of the library sites because of how they were really geared for teens and tweens. This is so important to maintain their reading and participation in library activities and I can see how this may help to re-popularize the library. I was not impressed with some of the individual accounts, however. I am not sure if this is because of some preconceived ideas of this website or because I had difficulty navigating the site and the tour video did not want to download.
At any rate I had a bit more preference for the ease of use on Facebook. I also liked the fact that you had to get permission from an individual to list them as a friend. This allows a network of your own design. When I googled Facebook vs MySpace, I came up with 7,330,300 hits or something like that. Then when I went to one article it had had 12 comments within the last hour. Everyone enjoys voicing their opinion about this question so why should I be the exception. Not that long ago there was a news story about sexual predation and Facebook vs MySpace. Both websites were very aware of these issues and working hard to try and develop programming to root out the predators and have a safer site. Although MySpace seemed to be more accessible to the child predators, it was found that Facebook was beginning to get more. In a library we have to be aware of this especially if we are having unsupervised children and young adults utilizing these websites.
I believe that Facebook is growing because of the networking phenomena. In college in frats and sororities, these were our social networking and acquaintances that we utilized for jobs or other services. Although Facebook is fun and can be recreational, I see it more as a professional network site. Whereas MySpace is more for music and basic friendship and socializing. Of course, I could be wrong.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1616301577&ref=profile#/home.php?ref=home
Yikes 3 days and I am so far behind!!!!
No! No! I did not skip 17. 17 is between 16 and 16 revisited. Anyway getting back to facebook, I found that going through the tutorial videos to be very helpful. I went through more than just the one. ( I just wish I had done it before going to Facebook) It really helps to read the full lesson before starting. I joined a couple of groups and found 1 friend from the library program and discovered a number of old high school chums just by having my high school listed. I also wrote on the wall and sent a couple of messages to melloves23things. The last time I wrote on a wall and floor I was three and a half years old, wrote Zorro all over and my mother decided I was ready for school.
I also visited MySpace. I liked some of the library sites because of how they were really geared for teens and tweens. This is so important to maintain their reading and participation in library activities and I can see how this may help to re-popularize the library. I was not impressed with some of the individual accounts, however. I am not sure if this is because of some preconceived ideas of this website or because I had difficulty navigating the site and the tour video did not want to download.
At any rate I had a bit more preference for the ease of use on Facebook. I also liked the fact that you had to get permission from an individual to list them as a friend. This allows a network of your own design. When I googled Facebook vs MySpace, I came up with 7,330,300 hits or something like that. Then when I went to one article it had had 12 comments within the last hour. Everyone enjoys voicing their opinion about this question so why should I be the exception. Not that long ago there was a news story about sexual predation and Facebook vs MySpace. Both websites were very aware of these issues and working hard to try and develop programming to root out the predators and have a safer site. Although MySpace seemed to be more accessible to the child predators, it was found that Facebook was beginning to get more. In a library we have to be aware of this especially if we are having unsupervised children and young adults utilizing these websites.
I believe that Facebook is growing because of the networking phenomena. In college in frats and sororities, these were our social networking and acquaintances that we utilized for jobs or other services. Although Facebook is fun and can be recreational, I see it more as a professional network site. Whereas MySpace is more for music and basic friendship and socializing. Of course, I could be wrong.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Thing 16: You Tube Revisited
I found this web site called SandFantasy.com. They had these videos of doing sand art set to music. It was rather incredible! Although it took awhile to download, it was worth the wait.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Thing 17: Podcasts
http://podcast.com/show/95955/Discovery-News-%28Video%29/
Well, well, well! This particular thing basically is giving voice and/or video to blogs. I searched through podcast.com and checked out podcastalley. I watched and listened to Discovery News and watched a chimpanzee invent a brush tool, I listened to CNN news but it just made me realize that the chimps are more intelligent than most humans in the news. I listened to authors on Tour and listened to various comedy routines. I started to listen to Stuff You Should Know only to find out aphrodisiacs do not exist. All I know is chocolate does wonders for me. The Education Podcast Network was interesting and it is a good way to catch up on some courses until I realized that anyone and their dog can teach. With some, their dogs have a great deal more to say. Podcast and podcast alley were the easiest and fairly speedy to download but then it was at a definite quite time on the net. I did subscribe to SirsiDynix merely because of their involvement with libraries. The only problem is they have not updated their "pod" in some time. I guess that can be a problem.
If I were to do a podcast, I would have to make the commitment to continually update and come up with something new to say. That can be very difficult because sometimes I sit and think and sometimes I just sit.
Well, well, well! This particular thing basically is giving voice and/or video to blogs. I searched through podcast.com and checked out podcastalley. I watched and listened to Discovery News and watched a chimpanzee invent a brush tool, I listened to CNN news but it just made me realize that the chimps are more intelligent than most humans in the news. I listened to authors on Tour and listened to various comedy routines. I started to listen to Stuff You Should Know only to find out aphrodisiacs do not exist. All I know is chocolate does wonders for me. The Education Podcast Network was interesting and it is a good way to catch up on some courses until I realized that anyone and their dog can teach. With some, their dogs have a great deal more to say. Podcast and podcast alley were the easiest and fairly speedy to download but then it was at a definite quite time on the net. I did subscribe to SirsiDynix merely because of their involvement with libraries. The only problem is they have not updated their "pod" in some time. I guess that can be a problem.
If I were to do a podcast, I would have to make the commitment to continually update and come up with something new to say. That can be very difficult because sometimes I sit and think and sometimes I just sit.
It's my Thing and I did what I wanted to Do
I always thought that if I won a great deal of money. I would love to own "Starry Night" by VanGogh. This is one of my all time favorites. Since that will never happen, I will sit back and admire copies.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Thing 16: You Tube
Well here is my video. Personally this was not particularly hard, however I'm not sure I like this one. I see children come into the library every day and get on You Tube, FaceBook, My Space, etc. There are a couple of kids that watch some of the jazz greats from old video or they watch some educational products. This is the good side of this website. Unfortunately, some un-parentally-monitored children will watch brutal martial arts fighting, WWF (fake) wrestling and a number of other inappropriate videos. Children are finding out the hard way as to what is inappropriate behavior and unfortunately these websites are poor substitutes for the necessary adult supervision. If the library has a reponsibility about the appropriate book content, do we also have a responsibility as to what is brought into the library via the web? These ethical issues remain with the community and parents of those children.
As to why I chose the underwater video, if anyone has read my blogs they would know my love of the underwater realm and since the octopus is one of my favorite creatures it stands to follow that this would be a favorite.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Thing 15.5 : Rollyo
This gives a whole new meaning to "Roll Your Own". There is a big potential for use in the library for this. This way you have a listing of those websites that are favorites and you have a new source for other suggestions. I like it!!!!
Thing 14: Online Productivity Tools
WOW! First off I chose iGoogle just to keep things simple. I can log in to get my gmail and I can have my personalized home page along with it. I have my calendar that reminds me of appointments and anything else of importance going on in my life. I thought is was nice and simple and then you guys come along and show me: Ta da list, Remember the Milk, Backpack (I liked this for work for listing commonly used forms) , StickyNotes, 30 Boxes, MyTicklerFile, Zoho Projects,MyStickies, Del.icio.us, Bloglines, Gliffy..ad infinitum. And yessss I did check them all out. I even signed in on a couple, however with MyStickies it was not compatible with Internet Explorer. These are wonderful tools. Some are beneficial for teachers, for students, for sport coaches, for librarians, for parents, for homeschoolers, for book clubs, etc. Since everyone of us could fall into more than one category, it is important to find a resource that could be general when needed and solve specific needs for major projects. Often this would need more than one website. The article on Top 25 Web 2.0 Apps was excellent. This list is an excellent resource. My husband taught me to use the right tool for the right job. This list of sites (tools) is a good place to find the right tool.
For doing group projects that require much more in depth research, graphs, slide show, file sharing, tasks, subtasks, status reports my vote goes to Zoho Projects. It has a highly organization quality that satisfies my appreciation of order. : ))
For doing group projects that require much more in depth research, graphs, slide show, file sharing, tasks, subtasks, status reports my vote goes to Zoho Projects. It has a highly organization quality that satisfies my appreciation of order. : ))
Monday, March 2, 2009
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Thing 13: Library Thing
This was truly a great deal of fun. I listed the books that I started reading in Dec. 2008. I do like to read series- in order and mostly fiction. I do read non-fiction, but it is mostly political issues which according to some is also fiction. It was interesting to learn that there were many other readers out there that enjoyed some of the same books. I enjoyed reading the comments from other library workers about book lists and how they are incorporating them into their websites. This is an ideal forum for listing the new books that have been added to the catalogue. Another comment that struck a chord was an idea for very rural libraries to utilize individual's personal libraries as a source for ILLs. When your own library is limited on funds and space, it does seem a viable way to enhance the catalogue. In finding local events, I found our area to be wanting. This again would involve a better P.R. and dedication to inputting the information into the necessary websites. With government cutting back and establishing hiring freezes, it is becoming most difficult to do more with fewer employees. But, this is an idea for future IT techies, who could provide a necessary service to all libraries.
Here are some of my books that I posted.
Here are some of my books that I posted.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Thing 12.5 Wikis
I actually set up my own wiki on pbwiki. For those who wish to look at my frail attempts at accomplishing 23 things the address is http://pbnoj.pbwiki.com
I inserted a document called Competencies. In Marion County there is a list on our portal which gives a general idea what we need to know. I enhanced it primarily for our Dunnellon Library with the help of my peers. There is circulation info, reference info and some basic procedures. I included some abbrieviated notes to help me remember. Feel free to peruse and edit or comment. Your are even welcome to copy and do your own list.
I inserted a document called Competencies. In Marion County there is a list on our portal which gives a general idea what we need to know. I enhanced it primarily for our Dunnellon Library with the help of my peers. There is circulation info, reference info and some basic procedures. I included some abbrieviated notes to help me remember. Feel free to peruse and edit or comment. Your are even welcome to copy and do your own list.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Thing 12: Wikis
Whereas websites tend to reflect the imagination of one individual, the wiki can be more of a collaborative effort. However if one person prefers to have control this is not necessarily the ideal media. The wiki allows anyone to edit which is both an advantage and a disadvantage. The Collective Group (to resist is futile) is subject to the common passion of the topic. The Resistors can get into an editing war. Is one allowed to edit too quickly without checking the facts and base the information on passion and belief? No wonder teachers and faculty ban this as a source of information. Can you imagine entries on abortion or evolution!!!!
To give credit to the Common Craft video for basic organization of a particular activity this is ideal. In libraries where you would be able to limit who updates the information, there could be a number of ways to utilize a wiki: lists for top 5 picks, YA picks by YAs, staff picks, display ideas (especially for children's), book talks, support for computer courses so people do not lose just learned skills, parents discussing educational challenges for their children, etc. It does require dedication and updating and a reminder that a wiki is not "private property".
I did edit the NEFLINS wiki. I am PBNoJ. I just wanted to know WHY 23? Incidentally it is not the peanut butter that makes the sandwich but what you add that brings taste, creativity and uniqueness.
To give credit to the Common Craft video for basic organization of a particular activity this is ideal. In libraries where you would be able to limit who updates the information, there could be a number of ways to utilize a wiki: lists for top 5 picks, YA picks by YAs, staff picks, display ideas (especially for children's), book talks, support for computer courses so people do not lose just learned skills, parents discussing educational challenges for their children, etc. It does require dedication and updating and a reminder that a wiki is not "private property".
I did edit the NEFLINS wiki. I am PBNoJ. I just wanted to know WHY 23? Incidentally it is not the peanut butter that makes the sandwich but what you add that brings taste, creativity and uniqueness.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
I could not resist this cartoon from Forest Fomentation. His humor is so on target. He deserves the prize just for giving so many a laugh. I never realized a librarian could show taste, humor and satire while juggling so many hats.
Thing 11: Social Media
I examined the recommended websites for this thing. I signed up for DIGG because I appreciated the fact that I could select the content. (Some subjects I choose not to follow.) Reddit, Mixx and Newsvine were okay but had way too many annoying comments. One can have a room full of people and everyone will have a different opinion or belief. No two people will have the same exact ideology. An opinion is based on upbringing, social conditioning, education and events that affect us. (Tradition, training and trauma) To alter this, there is too much history to affect a change. In the words of characters from CORNER GAS (a sit-com), a blog is where you can post your ranting so the rest of the world can ignore it. Despite the fact that a few people may read this blog, I have come to the conclusion that this NEFLIN project is more for self-discovery, self-realization and for those with little work ethic, work avoidance.
If readers have gotten to this point and wish to read my opinion of the NYT, WA post and BBC, here goes. WA Post required one to sign up which I did not want to do. NYT has always been a favorite to read but I never subscribed because they kill so many trees just for their Sunday edition alone. Reading on-line will be a nice treat. The BBC has a unique global perspective which I do enjoy reading. Both of these will go on my RSS feeds. The same for StumbleUpon. This website had some interesting links.
As far as use in the library, they are sources for best seller lists and other articles for some research, however I truly believe they may be more of a productivity detractor than enhancer. I prefer the face to face work with patrons. An actual smile on the face gains more respect and positive reaction than a thousand smiling emoticons. Isolating oneself behind a monitor, hiding away from the life going on around you, forgetting to smile at patrons, friends and loved ones is abhorrant to me. I do not mind learning about new tools but I refuse to do it at the expense of the important things in my life. How's that for ranting!!!!
If readers have gotten to this point and wish to read my opinion of the NYT, WA post and BBC, here goes. WA Post required one to sign up which I did not want to do. NYT has always been a favorite to read but I never subscribed because they kill so many trees just for their Sunday edition alone. Reading on-line will be a nice treat. The BBC has a unique global perspective which I do enjoy reading. Both of these will go on my RSS feeds. The same for StumbleUpon. This website had some interesting links.
As far as use in the library, they are sources for best seller lists and other articles for some research, however I truly believe they may be more of a productivity detractor than enhancer. I prefer the face to face work with patrons. An actual smile on the face gains more respect and positive reaction than a thousand smiling emoticons. Isolating oneself behind a monitor, hiding away from the life going on around you, forgetting to smile at patrons, friends and loved ones is abhorrant to me. I do not mind learning about new tools but I refuse to do it at the expense of the important things in my life. How's that for ranting!!!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Review of Thing 1 thru 10
Revisiting some of the websites I have found that some of the navigation has become a bit easier. When some of my fellow bloggers for NEFLIN got together we were able to discuss problems and easier ways to do things. In many, if not all, cases I found that patience was crucial. Everyone that we worked with has a different approach and a different forte. It was great to be able to share and grow. I wanted to be able to put in another slideshow which should show up at the end of this blog. Again because of dial-up, it is time consuming to post. I just have to remember:
THE OX IS SLOW BUT THE EARTH IS PATIENT.
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
THE OX IS SLOW BUT THE EARTH IS PATIENT.
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
Monday, February 16, 2009
Thing 10: Tagging and Delicious
Well, I can not believe I actually caught up with this. I know it will only be temporary though. After all, tomorrow is another thing. (My apologies to Margaret Mitchell.) Thank you NEFLIN gods for giving an extra week to catch up. I re-edited my things with labels and I signed up for delicious and examined some of the other tags. I can see how useful this can be for various reference work whether in children's or for adults. It worked great at home. However at the library we are limited in adding personal items to the tool bars. Because of programming limitations, we are limited in utilizing this feature. I can see the neatness and better organization this website can provide. I do appreciate the social aspect and the easy availability. Here at the library we often move from one workstation to another and our favorites do not follow us. This would be an extremely good time saving tool. I believe it could also be helpful in reducing keystrokes.(Something that my wrists would be grateful for.) I do plan on looking at Furl and Pagekeeper later but for now I will just post what I have.
Thing 9.5 Comments to slide show
I thoroughly enjoyed slideshare. They categorize a variety of subjects and make them available with basically the click of a button. When putting together a presention on power point, this can provide a quick way of putting together a theme of others' photos or your own. I looked at other bloggers' websites and those suggested by NEFLIN and found many of them easy to navigate. I went back to slideshare because of their program on Chihuly. We recently had a book about Chihuly on hold for a patron. The artwork was just phenomenal. Since I started this program with NEFLIN, I have experienced a great deal of new things one is photo sharing. I probably will do more in the future but more likely at the library since their computers are a bit faster than my dial-up at home.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Thing 8: Communication Web 2.0 Style
I had to think long and hard on this. As I have said in previous blogs, I do not have a cell phone, blackberry, pager or anything else of that nature. I did have a laptop until I threw it across the room. (I no longer have anger issues as long as everyone agrees with me) So now I have a basic computer with dial up for e-mails and receiving statements and bills however I really do not bank on-line. I have tried to go somewhat green but I still support the post office with paying bills and sending packages and real letters to friends and family.(Note to self: buy some more forever stamps before rates increase again!!) I guess you could say I have one foot on solid ground and one foot into technology. Staddling a barrier can be dangerous only if the separation becomes so great that my short little legs fail me or force me to choose. I am hopeful that we all can strike a balance so that we never forget the range of generations that come through our doors.
With this technology of IMing, we are experiencing a cultural change. The texting and use of instant messaging has altered the syntax of the English language. I believe in one of the articles it was referred to as "nonlibrarianish". With ipods and bluetooth and other such devices, people are walking around with voices constantly in their heads. This at one time was a psychoses. I saw one patron the other day on one of our computers writing a paper and texting at the same time. I admire that sort of multi-tasking. Yet I wonder just how good a job one is doing on both. The language that is being used on the IM is a sort of rewritten language. It requires interpretation or having to look it up on google for the meaning. I do not believe it is rich in nuances, satire, irony or any subtleness that the spoken language can bring. Voice and a full written text can contain what IM can not.
One also talks about the speed with which one gives or receives information. When you drive through the Golden Arches or the King to get instant food, you can not say that the food is better than if you go to a real restaurant and wait a bit longer. IMing is a means to try and get a quick answer but it is not necessarily a definitive response. Are employees abusing the system by spending too much time on texting or IMing? It is possible, but if the employee does not have work ethics to begin with; this is just another avenue of work avoidance.
As far as web conferencing, at work the only computer with the necessary programming is the supervisor's. This is a good way to get the classes without the travel, however it still takes away from helping the questioning patron who is standing in front of you. Major libraries who have the resources and the patronage probably should utilize whatever technology their primary patrons use. The important aspect here is to supply the need of the majority of your patronage with balanced steps into the future technology. At our library for those who choose to give us an e-mail address, they receive computer generated notices on requested books. For the most part we still meet and greet all patrons that pass through our doors.
I apologize if my blog is too long. My husband always says I am a bit long winded. He's just envious because I'm better on a tank of air than he is.
With this technology of IMing, we are experiencing a cultural change. The texting and use of instant messaging has altered the syntax of the English language. I believe in one of the articles it was referred to as "nonlibrarianish". With ipods and bluetooth and other such devices, people are walking around with voices constantly in their heads. This at one time was a psychoses. I saw one patron the other day on one of our computers writing a paper and texting at the same time. I admire that sort of multi-tasking. Yet I wonder just how good a job one is doing on both. The language that is being used on the IM is a sort of rewritten language. It requires interpretation or having to look it up on google for the meaning. I do not believe it is rich in nuances, satire, irony or any subtleness that the spoken language can bring. Voice and a full written text can contain what IM can not.
One also talks about the speed with which one gives or receives information. When you drive through the Golden Arches or the King to get instant food, you can not say that the food is better than if you go to a real restaurant and wait a bit longer. IMing is a means to try and get a quick answer but it is not necessarily a definitive response. Are employees abusing the system by spending too much time on texting or IMing? It is possible, but if the employee does not have work ethics to begin with; this is just another avenue of work avoidance.
As far as web conferencing, at work the only computer with the necessary programming is the supervisor's. This is a good way to get the classes without the travel, however it still takes away from helping the questioning patron who is standing in front of you. Major libraries who have the resources and the patronage probably should utilize whatever technology their primary patrons use. The important aspect here is to supply the need of the majority of your patronage with balanced steps into the future technology. At our library for those who choose to give us an e-mail address, they receive computer generated notices on requested books. For the most part we still meet and greet all patrons that pass through our doors.
I apologize if my blog is too long. My husband always says I am a bit long winded. He's just envious because I'm better on a tank of air than he is.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Thing 7.5 More Online Image Generators
Myspace Picture Generator
I had so much fun with the last one, I wanted to do it again! The website for this is www.jellymuffin.com/generators/textpix2/
Monday, February 9, 2009
Thing 7: Online Image Generators
Myspace Picture Generator
This was another challenging task that was initially frought with frustration and indecision as to what I wanted to post. However this website jellymuffin.com seemed to make it interesting and fun. This was an easy site to use as it had a single button to copy the code and carry over to my blog. The variety of graphics is somewhat limited compared to other websites that were listed at NEFLIN.
Thing 6.5 More FLICKR Mashups
An Octopus is grabbing a clam that I placed in front of his midden. He/ she will use the suckers on its tentacles to open the clam and pull out the meat.
I just thought I would do it again. The other one went to my photos in FLICKR first. So I thought I would just try the more direct route. As the exercise says it is alot of fun.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Thing 6: Flickr Mashups
DUNNELLON PUBLIC LIBRARY
I looked at Clockr, Flickr Color Pickr, Big Hugh Labs, Spell with Flickr and splashr all while having my septic tank pumped. At least this did not smell as bad, however it was fun and I did experience a bit of a learning curve. This is another way of beefing up the graphics on any of our displays to make them more appealing. For patrons it is another way they can utilize the computers for their personal communication or for small businesses that wish to promote themselves. It is also another website for interested teens and adults to utilize their imagination. Indeed it was fun and I hope to take better advantage of it.
Thing 5: Flickr
I created a new account in Flickr. Unfortunately I do not have either a digital camera or a camera phone mostly by choice. I do however have a scanner. I took some of my photographs and scanned them into my computer, then I uploaded them to my flickr account. I also slightly edited them and cropped them with Picnik. This was not particularly fast as I only have dial-up, however perseverence and patience prevailed. The photos are in Flickr and I now have one on my blog. I realize the exercise was to utilize a library scene; I just find underwater photos or those of my dogs and other wildlife more interesting. The photos were taken by me except in the case where I am in the photo. In that case it was still my camera with my settings.Using Flickr in the library is a way to assist patrons with yet another facet of technology. It is also a way for libraries to share ways of displaying materials and ideas for seasonal activities. Flickr and Picnik together make a good combination to enhance their service. Using them was surprisingly easy providing I was patient. As far as making my photos public, it does not bother me. They are not professionally done by any means and the individuals are all adults. I looked at the other sites Picasa and SmugMug. Both were very good. I liked not having ads on SmugMug. However despite it being unlimited in space and no ads, you would have to pay to use it. I would much rather the free price tag.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thing 4- RSS and News Feeds
RSS and news feeds are a very handy device, especially if there are web sites that one consistently visits. However, my concern with this is that one can become too complacent in the dynamism of the web. With new websites and blogs arising at a logarithmic rate, and time being a limiting factor will we truly continue to search out alternative websites for a better news feed? Will we become narrow in our focus and forget to look at a greater variety of websites? Having "total immersion" in the ocean is very different than swimming in a concrete pool. So with this one might want to set limits and not forget the greater picture.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Thing 3: Blog Search Tools
I looked at Technorati, Search Engine Journal, About.com and a fairly new one called Hakia. I agree with some of my fellow bloggers that Technorati could be intimidating. I did, however, enjoy reading their series of articles: State of the Blogosphere / 2008 , Day 1 through 6. Since I actually enjoy statistics, I was impressed by the depth of some of their studies. Search Engine Journal was even more intimidating. There was too much blog jargon (is that a term?) that I felt I needed a special dictionary for some of their articles. About.com was excellent. I believed the format is easy to read, the articles are geared for some just getting into the "internet arena" and they seemed very current on issues. Hakia is in beta testing and its search method is semantics not keywords. The search technology will enable retrieval of information via concept or meaning match.
I decided to look for reviews of the book Twilight by Stephanie Meyers in all these search engines. I received information from all except Search Engine Journal. Technorati gave me blogs on movie reviews, vampires and the book. About.com gave me several book reviews, some even from book clubs. It also gave me a biography and interview of Stephanie Meyers plus additional information on the other books in her Twilight Series. Hakia gave information solely on book reviews on Twilight.
Overall About.com and Hakia came out on top for what I was searching. They gave me specifics for Twilight and the Twilight Series. Both of these websites were easy to use and quick with results. Since I am doing most of my blogging from home and all I have access to is slow dial-up, I appreciate speed when I can get it.
I decided to look for reviews of the book Twilight by Stephanie Meyers in all these search engines. I received information from all except Search Engine Journal. Technorati gave me blogs on movie reviews, vampires and the book. About.com gave me several book reviews, some even from book clubs. It also gave me a biography and interview of Stephanie Meyers plus additional information on the other books in her Twilight Series. Hakia gave information solely on book reviews on Twilight.
Overall About.com and Hakia came out on top for what I was searching. They gave me specifics for Twilight and the Twilight Series. Both of these websites were easy to use and quick with results. Since I am doing most of my blogging from home and all I have access to is slow dial-up, I appreciate speed when I can get it.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thing 2.5
Just to thoroughly finish with comments on Web 2.0/Lib 2.0, I was impressed with some of the articles and the videos and truly amazed with the enthusiasm of John Blyberg and Stephen Abram.
When I was a great deal younger, I would visit my cousin in Laguna Beach. She would insist that we would not just walk and wade in the ocean but we would need to have a "total immersion". Despite getting face planted and knocked about by some decent waves, I fell in love with the water and later became a scuba instructor. With this NEFLIN program, it seems as if I am walking into the water and slowly becoming totally immersed in the various aspects of the web. It is my perception that the steps are the experience-based study guide and my blog is a reflection of those experiences. These tools that we are learning to use are important for the task at hand and the Web is extremely dynamic, however it should not be the only way to experience life. It is not the only environment that we need to learn about.
When I was a great deal younger, I would visit my cousin in Laguna Beach. She would insist that we would not just walk and wade in the ocean but we would need to have a "total immersion". Despite getting face planted and knocked about by some decent waves, I fell in love with the water and later became a scuba instructor. With this NEFLIN program, it seems as if I am walking into the water and slowly becoming totally immersed in the various aspects of the web. It is my perception that the steps are the experience-based study guide and my blog is a reflection of those experiences. These tools that we are learning to use are important for the task at hand and the Web is extremely dynamic, however it should not be the only way to experience life. It is not the only environment that we need to learn about.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Thing 2: What is Web 2.0
Friday, January 16, 2009
I have read the article Exploring Web 2.0 and Libraries from Library Technology Reports 42.4. It was interesting in its description and comparison to Web 1.0. In movies, I have always been leery of sequels, however there have been improvements over the years. The main thing that I have noted with this project is that we cannot remain static. With the increased number of patrons that enter our doors, we are forced to grow faster and try to anticipate their needs. With younger individuals as well as retirees that wish to continually learn, we need to expand our virtual library in addition to the technological training of patrons and employees alike. I am hoping to read more on this subject and add further to this portion of the project.
I have read the article Exploring Web 2.0 and Libraries from Library Technology Reports 42.4. It was interesting in its description and comparison to Web 1.0. In movies, I have always been leery of sequels, however there have been improvements over the years. The main thing that I have noted with this project is that we cannot remain static. With the increased number of patrons that enter our doors, we are forced to grow faster and try to anticipate their needs. With younger individuals as well as retirees that wish to continually learn, we need to expand our virtual library in addition to the technological training of patrons and employees alike. I am hoping to read more on this subject and add further to this portion of the project.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Thing 1: Setting up my blog
Thursday, January 15, 2009
I have just registered with NEFLIN. So far setting up the e-mail with google, blogging acct with blogger.com and registering have all been straight forward and somewhat easy. That is, until my husband picked up the phone and disconnected me so that I had to redo a few steps. Oh well, practice makes perfect. My biggest concern at this point is threefold. 1. Focusing on the computer and learning the intricacies of the web, will I forget to look outside and enjoy the turkeys strolling by the window, 2. will I ignore the important people in my life because I am concentrating on the screen, 3. will my butt get to be bigger than it already is because I'm sitting here in front of a stupid screen blogging!!!
I have just registered with NEFLIN. So far setting up the e-mail with google, blogging acct with blogger.com and registering have all been straight forward and somewhat easy. That is, until my husband picked up the phone and disconnected me so that I had to redo a few steps. Oh well, practice makes perfect. My biggest concern at this point is threefold. 1. Focusing on the computer and learning the intricacies of the web, will I forget to look outside and enjoy the turkeys strolling by the window, 2. will I ignore the important people in my life because I am concentrating on the screen, 3. will my butt get to be bigger than it already is because I'm sitting here in front of a stupid screen blogging!!!
January 15, 2009
This is my first blog. I never believed that what I had to say was anything to write home about. LOL. With this project change is inevitable, however adaptation or extinction do not have to be the only choices. Those choices are linear and since the Web and its technology are not, we must develop a paradyme that includes the "dwindling elderly population" and baby boomers as well as the younger constituents. We cannot disenfranchise one group to accommodate another. There needs to be a balance in our pursuit to give good customer service and to provide responsible and fundamental change in order to engage our future taxpayers.
This is my first blog. I never believed that what I had to say was anything to write home about. LOL. With this project change is inevitable, however adaptation or extinction do not have to be the only choices. Those choices are linear and since the Web and its technology are not, we must develop a paradyme that includes the "dwindling elderly population" and baby boomers as well as the younger constituents. We cannot disenfranchise one group to accommodate another. There needs to be a balance in our pursuit to give good customer service and to provide responsible and fundamental change in order to engage our future taxpayers.
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