Training session with Sue, and talking about how Blogs, Wikis, and other Web 2.0 tools could be used in our IR&S environment. What opportunities can we find? Where shall we look?
Here's an article from a blog about libraries and job titles in the era of Web 2.0.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Thing-free for the first time !
This is my first blog post since I finished my 23-Things-on-a-Stick blog project supported by Minnesota libraries.
So, the first thing I did was log onto my Blogger dashboard and skimmed through some headlines - one of the blogs I'm monitoring has to do with LIS news (multiple posts per day). I read about the California State Deputy Librarian, Stacey Aldrich, projecting four things to watch in the future of libraries, and she referenced a Sony Corp patent for beaming sensations directly into the brain - part of the next generation of gaming. Link is to the USA today story. I'll practice looking up this patent later (what's the US class, I wonder??) .
So, the system seems to be working. Except now I'm supposed to be pondering how the development will impact libraries. I think the point is that libraries, particularly public libraries, need to be aware of the development of technologies on the horizons. And I recall about three years ago, one of my clients asked me questions about computer systems which accepted input from anywhere in the room. He must have read some early promo about Wii. and now, they're everywhere (even the state fair this year) !
Before finishing up, I took a look at the recent blog additions to Science Blogs from the past 24 hours. Always something interesting there! Ah, this is fun, and relaxing!
So, the first thing I did was log onto my Blogger dashboard and skimmed through some headlines - one of the blogs I'm monitoring has to do with LIS news (multiple posts per day). I read about the California State Deputy Librarian, Stacey Aldrich, projecting four things to watch in the future of libraries, and she referenced a Sony Corp patent for beaming sensations directly into the brain - part of the next generation of gaming. Link is to the USA today story. I'll practice looking up this patent later (what's the US class, I wonder??) .
So, the system seems to be working. Except now I'm supposed to be pondering how the development will impact libraries. I think the point is that libraries, particularly public libraries, need to be aware of the development of technologies on the horizons. And I recall about three years ago, one of my clients asked me questions about computer systems which accepted input from anywhere in the room. He must have read some early promo about Wii. and now, they're everywhere (even the state fair this year) !
Before finishing up, I took a look at the recent blog additions to Science Blogs from the past 24 hours. Always something interesting there! Ah, this is fun, and relaxing!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Thing 23 - Final Thoughts
Whew, I'm done. Inspired by the deadline, I've met it.
I just removed from my blog the countdown clock I had added a few weeks back (and so much work it took to get that item working). I replaced the clock with a jpg picture of a ticket saying that I'd finishd 23 things - and it looks great!
This is proof that I have learned a whole lot in this project, enough to make minor changes to graphics, to be able to make the blog aesthetically pleasing, at least to myself.
I'm glad I pushed through to the end of this program. Quite recently, we had to log on to the 23 Things ning, one of many social networking sites (I'm not sure how they all differ exactly, but that's a question to answer later). All who join are presumably 23 things on stick contributors, and activly trying to fisnish up. Sending a note to another member was one of the assignments. My person wrote back to me, and I intend to reply. So- I actually have been 'social' in the social networking tool. I didn't just 'observe' this phenomenon !
As I wrote in my survey response, I was really impressed with the Common Craft videos, and the most useful was the one which described wikis, and when they were a good idea, and when a blog or other tool is better. It raised the question: What ARE we trying to accomplish with a particluar tool, and is it the best one? What incentive do my intended users have to log on and participate?
With 23-things, it has been self interest - an excitement to learn. My users have to get somthing out beyond the joy of using the tool.
I just removed from my blog the countdown clock I had added a few weeks back (and so much work it took to get that item working). I replaced the clock with a jpg picture of a ticket saying that I'd finishd 23 things - and it looks great!
This is proof that I have learned a whole lot in this project, enough to make minor changes to graphics, to be able to make the blog aesthetically pleasing, at least to myself.
I'm glad I pushed through to the end of this program. Quite recently, we had to log on to the 23 Things ning, one of many social networking sites (I'm not sure how they all differ exactly, but that's a question to answer later). All who join are presumably 23 things on stick contributors, and activly trying to fisnish up. Sending a note to another member was one of the assignments. My person wrote back to me, and I intend to reply. So- I actually have been 'social' in the social networking tool. I didn't just 'observe' this phenomenon !
As I wrote in my survey response, I was really impressed with the Common Craft videos, and the most useful was the one which described wikis, and when they were a good idea, and when a blog or other tool is better. It raised the question: What ARE we trying to accomplish with a particluar tool, and is it the best one? What incentive do my intended users have to log on and participate?
With 23-things, it has been self interest - an excitement to learn. My users have to get somthing out beyond the joy of using the tool.
Thing 22 - What did I learn today ?
Keeping up-to-date is the idea behind this 'thing'. I am glad this project has had so many (23) steps, because as I've developed proficiency, I can easily do things that were difficult when I first began. Such as signing up to monitor blogs. And I've found a more sensible way to do it - from the dashboard of this blog. I have now directed about four interesting (and active) blogs to be delivered here, where I already am. I guess I find GoogleReader to be mostly out of the way, off my beaten track.
I plan to keep this blog somewhat active. I will monitor my incoming blogs, keep my eyes open for other good blogs to monitor, etc. And add good ones. Specifically, and measurably, I plan to add to my 23-things blog at least once a week. Maybe check up on my blog monitoring from work. I still have weekly visits to the coffee shop near Tae Kwan Do, so I will keep using that time for blogging.
The goal will to keep my brain engaged in Web 2.0 tools and applications of those tools to help foster interactive communication within my organization.
In a related vein, I plan to start a second blog, a more personal blog, which I can share with my extended family (which is thinly spread on three continents). That blog will start from the same dashboard, which will increase the likelihood that I'll review the blogs I'm monitoring, and apply more of the 'fun' tools on my personal blog. More opportunity to explore these tools. Photos, fun, communication.
I'm psyched!
I plan to keep this blog somewhat active. I will monitor my incoming blogs, keep my eyes open for other good blogs to monitor, etc. And add good ones. Specifically, and measurably, I plan to add to my 23-things blog at least once a week. Maybe check up on my blog monitoring from work. I still have weekly visits to the coffee shop near Tae Kwan Do, so I will keep using that time for blogging.
The goal will to keep my brain engaged in Web 2.0 tools and applications of those tools to help foster interactive communication within my organization.
In a related vein, I plan to start a second blog, a more personal blog, which I can share with my extended family (which is thinly spread on three continents). That blog will start from the same dashboard, which will increase the likelihood that I'll review the blogs I'm monitoring, and apply more of the 'fun' tools on my personal blog. More opportunity to explore these tools. Photos, fun, communication.
I'm psyched!
Thing 21 - Beyond MySpace - Other Social Networks
I have heard about Gather.com for ages - as I listen to MPR/NPR often. I hadn't realized the goal is for publishers to harness social networks around writing/publishing. I guess that observation leads to a larger question - who benefits/hopes to benefit from any of these sites?
I joined the 23 things Ning, was refreshed by the observation that we all enter our full names. On our blogs, many leave cryptic names (myself included), but the social networks request full names, and it seems we comply. Now, in Ning (and Facebook, last thing), most of use were fully identified.
23 Things on a Sting - Ning Page
I also added the Ning badge to the right side of this blog. Check it out!
I was getting ready to leave comments for another member, when I realized that others had much more information about themselves on their profiles. I don't have even a photo close at hand. I added a bit more content, then sent a note to a recent visitor. Wonder if I'll ever hear back. I'd better check back, just to see if anyone writes to me!
I was filling out my profile, and found myself blabbing on about web 2.0 in my workplace. Seems like a better addition here: In my workplace, Web 2.0 is not far away. We have corporate initiative to use wikis, blogs, and even social networking to the corporation. I think people are watching to see what happens, but it's quite evident that the library need to be involved. Needs to be prominent. Available.
I may clip that later and place it in one of the last blogs required. Thoughts on Library 2.0.
Anyway, I also joined Flixter, as I enjoy movies. Immediately, I was asked to choose a background graphic, and the choices seemed aimed at teenage girls. Fans of movie mags. That may be the hook, which seems to miss me. I agreed to have reviews sent to my email, so I'll see what that yields.
I joined the 23 things Ning, was refreshed by the observation that we all enter our full names. On our blogs, many leave cryptic names (myself included), but the social networks request full names, and it seems we comply. Now, in Ning (and Facebook, last thing), most of use were fully identified.
23 Things on a Sting - Ning Page
I also added the Ning badge to the right side of this blog. Check it out!
I was getting ready to leave comments for another member, when I realized that others had much more information about themselves on their profiles. I don't have even a photo close at hand. I added a bit more content, then sent a note to a recent visitor. Wonder if I'll ever hear back. I'd better check back, just to see if anyone writes to me!
I was filling out my profile, and found myself blabbing on about web 2.0 in my workplace. Seems like a better addition here: In my workplace, Web 2.0 is not far away. We have corporate initiative to use wikis, blogs, and even social networking to the corporation. I think people are watching to see what happens, but it's quite evident that the library need to be involved. Needs to be prominent. Available.
I may clip that later and place it in one of the last blogs required. Thoughts on Library 2.0.
Anyway, I also joined Flixter, as I enjoy movies. Immediately, I was asked to choose a background graphic, and the choices seemed aimed at teenage girls. Fans of movie mags. That may be the hook, which seems to miss me. I agreed to have reviews sent to my email, so I'll see what that yields.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thing 20 - Libraries and Social Networks
I chose to try Facebook, and enjoyed poking around. I realized that one can click into a group, and then back out just as easily. I feel a little bit guilty signing up, logging in, joining up, and then not being sure how much of a contributor I'll really be.
I wasn't able to find many 'friends' - I recognized people from college, but not enough to be 'friends'. My brother-in-law was extracted from my email ( I have very few names, only family, in my yahoo email account). So I 'friended' him, and it will be interesting to check in and see what his page looks like. The whole family seems to use the same email, so maybe they will all be there (they're all in their photo).
I joined two groups, the 23 things on a stick group, and the Library 2.0 Interest Group. Lots of information on the 2.0 group. And I added to the wall. I don't know if all social networks are like this, but I felt quite adequate with no photo in Facebook.
Ultimately, I think I'd like to join LinkdIn. A couple of colleagues from work have mentioned that they are there, and my recent professional organization PIUG (Patent Information Users Group) has a group (or whatever they call it). I'll have to join that one too.
I haven't yet figured out if social networks make life easier, or more difficult for the introverted. I should search on that question the next time I have an opportunity search ELM databases (see, I really learned something !).
Maybe I should have searched for an introverts group on Facebook. Next time. . .
I wasn't able to find many 'friends' - I recognized people from college, but not enough to be 'friends'. My brother-in-law was extracted from my email ( I have very few names, only family, in my yahoo email account). So I 'friended' him, and it will be interesting to check in and see what his page looks like. The whole family seems to use the same email, so maybe they will all be there (they're all in their photo).
I joined two groups, the 23 things on a stick group, and the Library 2.0 Interest Group. Lots of information on the 2.0 group. And I added to the wall. I don't know if all social networks are like this, but I felt quite adequate with no photo in Facebook.
Ultimately, I think I'd like to join LinkdIn. A couple of colleagues from work have mentioned that they are there, and my recent professional organization PIUG (Patent Information Users Group) has a group (or whatever they call it). I'll have to join that one too.
I haven't yet figured out if social networks make life easier, or more difficult for the introverted. I should search on that question the next time I have an opportunity search ELM databases (see, I really learned something !).
Maybe I should have searched for an introverts group on Facebook. Next time. . .
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thing 19 - Explore Podcasts
As I mentioned in Thing 3 - RSS feeds, this is one technology I am familiar with, from the perspective of a consumer. I listen to podcasts of favorite radio shows while working out, gardening, dinking. So, I'm excited to delve deeper in this technology.
I reviewed the local podcasts, and took a quick listen to several podcasts, such as the Minitex Reference 5th Grade Interview, and Minnesota Public Radio's Grammar Grater. The MPR site has great material on it, and is my favorite source (though the audio quality of the one above seems a bit weak - I think I'm hearing bleed or feedback.
I find that the directories are more difficult. I was completely unimpressed with podcast.com and podcast.net. Maybe I was having trouble coming up with good search terms. I had some better luck with the Educational Podcast Directory. I chose the category 'science', and found some useful discussions on scientific subjects.
As for regular podcast subscriptions, my favorite one is from Wisconsin Public Radio - the show is 'To the Best of our Knowledge" - covers a wide subject area, from history, sociology, science, and human experience. Highly, highly recommended by me.
I reviewed the local podcasts, and took a quick listen to several podcasts, such as the Minitex Reference 5th Grade Interview, and Minnesota Public Radio's Grammar Grater. The MPR site has great material on it, and is my favorite source (though the audio quality of the one above seems a bit weak - I think I'm hearing bleed or feedback.
I find that the directories are more difficult. I was completely unimpressed with podcast.com and podcast.net. Maybe I was having trouble coming up with good search terms. I had some better luck with the Educational Podcast Directory. I chose the category 'science', and found some useful discussions on scientific subjects.
As for regular podcast subscriptions, my favorite one is from Wisconsin Public Radio - the show is 'To the Best of our Knowledge" - covers a wide subject area, from history, sociology, science, and human experience. Highly, highly recommended by me.
Thing 18 - YouTube and Other Online Video
Of course, this was an entertaining "thing' to complete. I enjoyed just about all of the videos listed, and also viewed the most similar ones at the end of each video (other jokes, other commercials, etc.).
I chose to add a video to my blog called "Information R/evolution", by Michael Wesch, Kansas State University. Artist is a Professor of Cultural Anthropology. "Information R/evolution" describe information from typed on paper and filed to all aspects of Web 2.0, but an emphasis on information storage, retrieval, organization. Web 2.0 considers information and interconnection. Artist is the same as the one who did "Library 2.0", from our program, but 2.0 was from Jan 2007, and "Information R/evolution' was October 2007.
My favorite of the videos we watched for this thing was "Introducing the Book", which featured the help desk person demonstrating new 'book' technology, as compared to the scroll. An early adaptor to technology.
And my son will love 'Conan the Librarian', and the advertisement featuring a reader who imagines warfare in the trenches, with the message that 'reading increases the imagination' (the linked ad). And the Library Musical- went on a bit too long, but was quite fun.
I chose to add a video to my blog called "Information R/evolution", by Michael Wesch, Kansas State University. Artist is a Professor of Cultural Anthropology. "Information R/evolution" describe information from typed on paper and filed to all aspects of Web 2.0, but an emphasis on information storage, retrieval, organization. Web 2.0 considers information and interconnection. Artist is the same as the one who did "Library 2.0", from our program, but 2.0 was from Jan 2007, and "Information R/evolution' was October 2007.
My favorite of the videos we watched for this thing was "Introducing the Book", which featured the help desk person demonstrating new 'book' technology, as compared to the scroll. An early adaptor to technology.
And my son will love 'Conan the Librarian', and the advertisement featuring a reader who imagines warfare in the trenches, with the message that 'reading increases the imagination' (the linked ad). And the Library Musical- went on a bit too long, but was quite fun.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Thing 17 -- ELM Productivity Tools
I spent some time exploring a few of these databases. I had a lot of fun, searching for articles that interest me in Ebsco's MasterFile Premier - fun subjects, rather than my work-a-day searches.
I tried to set up the alert to deliver to my GoogleReader, and following the instructions in 23 Things News, Issue 8. I was able to get a delivery, but it didn't seem to be related to my search parameters. I think it was somehow the most recent input to the database, but not subject limited. Furthermore, when I tried to open the links, I had to put in by library card number again. If I worked in a public library, this might go more smoothly, but I got tired of the hassle.
I am amazed by the breadth and depth of the databases, and that they're available to me, a Minnesotan, in my home. A few years back when I had a job at MPL, these resources were only available in the library, so this is quite an improvement.
Finally, I set up my Google Reader account back in thing #3 - RSS feeds, I was hoping I'd be able to keep up with those other blogs I selected that I found interesting. I'll play around a bit now to see if I can get something on THIS blog so I can see the most recent entries from those blogs. I barely have time to work on this blog, let alone go over to GoogleReader to look for something else to read. I'll report back if I find anything good (or you may find a new item off in the margins of this blog . . .).
I tried to set up the alert to deliver to my GoogleReader, and following the instructions in 23 Things News, Issue 8. I was able to get a delivery, but it didn't seem to be related to my search parameters. I think it was somehow the most recent input to the database, but not subject limited. Furthermore, when I tried to open the links, I had to put in by library card number again. If I worked in a public library, this might go more smoothly, but I got tired of the hassle.
I am amazed by the breadth and depth of the databases, and that they're available to me, a Minnesotan, in my home. A few years back when I had a job at MPL, these resources were only available in the library, so this is quite an improvement.
Finally, I set up my Google Reader account back in thing #3 - RSS feeds, I was hoping I'd be able to keep up with those other blogs I selected that I found interesting. I'll play around a bit now to see if I can get something on THIS blog so I can see the most recent entries from those blogs. I barely have time to work on this blog, let alone go over to GoogleReader to look for something else to read. I'll report back if I find anything good (or you may find a new item off in the margins of this blog . . .).
Monday, September 8, 2008
Thing 16 - Student 2.0 Tools
I think this is the coolest tool! All those painful years, working my way up from five paregraph essays to longer papers, research papers, senior thesis, masters thesis . . . I felt I learned those lessons well, developed some reasonalbe writing skills (write, rewrite, rewirte . . .lessons I generally skip when blogging [oh well]).
I was particularly impressed by the U of M tool, which helps with the scheduling of the entire project, provides manageable steps along the way, with examples (what is a good thesis statement), links to the different research tools, databases, people, etc. The most difficult part of writing papers for me was the scheduling, and the tool gets you started (and reminds you with emails).
The RPC tool was a bit broader, and doesn't hold the users hand quite so tightly (varied schedules and tools for various disciplines). None-the-less, an impressive tool.
My son is the student closest at hand, and though still over his head, I expect there is a tool out there somewhere aimed at fourth graders.
As for work, many of my clients come to me because they need to write patents. Like research papers, patents have very specific research expectations, tight deadlines, and stringent requirements for the final product. There are many printed tools, but somthing interactive like this would be amazing. My own littlel project - is there somthing out there like this already? Let's check !
I was particularly impressed by the U of M tool, which helps with the scheduling of the entire project, provides manageable steps along the way, with examples (what is a good thesis statement), links to the different research tools, databases, people, etc. The most difficult part of writing papers for me was the scheduling, and the tool gets you started (and reminds you with emails).
The RPC tool was a bit broader, and doesn't hold the users hand quite so tightly (varied schedules and tools for various disciplines). None-the-less, an impressive tool.
My son is the student closest at hand, and though still over his head, I expect there is a tool out there somewhere aimed at fourth graders.
As for work, many of my clients come to me because they need to write patents. Like research papers, patents have very specific research expectations, tight deadlines, and stringent requirements for the final product. There are many printed tools, but somthing interactive like this would be amazing. My own littlel project - is there somthing out there like this already? Let's check !
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Thing 15 - Online Games and Libraries
Well, I'm about to try the Puzzle Pirates option. I spent a few minutes looking at the Second Life info. Looks quite involved. If I didn't have a job and a family, it might be quite enticing.
The Puzzle Pirates looks much more limited. Much like my son's experiences with Club Penguin - another interactive game system. He's just ten, so we don't allow him to get a membership, so he's not allowed to spend his points and decorate his igloo, or 'live' the higher life. http://play.clubpenguin.com/
I have played a few times on his password (bad mom?), and even earned him a few points from being pulled in an inner tube behind a boat, and by racing other player down an icy hill. I had the experience of talking to other players, interacting, and making brief buddies. It's an odd experience, playing virtual skill games against others. I'm curious to see how different this pirate game is.
Oops, I just hit a glitch. I'm using the home computer, and have previously agreed to not download any software. Seems like a different version of Java is required. I'll need to get back to this post (putting off playing a game - - this cannot be procrastination!).
I now have another computer at the coffee shop, and have had no Java issues, but now my antivirus software is stealing all my fun. I now accept the fact that my gaming 'thing' won't be quite as fun as I had hoped. I need to throw in the towel, and call this a 'blog entry'.
The Puzzle Pirates looks much more limited. Much like my son's experiences with Club Penguin - another interactive game system. He's just ten, so we don't allow him to get a membership, so he's not allowed to spend his points and decorate his igloo, or 'live' the higher life. http://play.clubpenguin.com/
I have played a few times on his password (bad mom?), and even earned him a few points from being pulled in an inner tube behind a boat, and by racing other player down an icy hill. I had the experience of talking to other players, interacting, and making brief buddies. It's an odd experience, playing virtual skill games against others. I'm curious to see how different this pirate game is.
Oops, I just hit a glitch. I'm using the home computer, and have previously agreed to not download any software. Seems like a different version of Java is required. I'll need to get back to this post (putting off playing a game - - this cannot be procrastination!).
I now have another computer at the coffee shop, and have had no Java issues, but now my antivirus software is stealing all my fun. I now accept the fact that my gaming 'thing' won't be quite as fun as I had hoped. I need to throw in the towel, and call this a 'blog entry'.
Thing 14 - LibraryThing
I wish, over the course of 23 Things, I'd had more time to look at other 23 things blogger blogs. I attempted to look at 2 or 3 each time I blogged, and as a result have added some other pleasing things to my own blog. One of the first blogs I reviewed was from someone who jumped ahead to the LibraryThing early - her second or third blog.
Now, I see why. LibraryThing contains some of the fun of searching in Amazon.com for books you have read, or want to read. Opportunities to read the ranking and the reviews, lists of similar books, etc. (I have spent time on Amazon.com doing just that).
I entered about eight books that I have read recently - quite different in subject matter. It was fun to look at links for other people who have some of the same books. This, I will continue to access - but I see no work-related application. Though we in my library were just discussing using publicly available tools for a catalog - I see how this could be done, and quite easily !
Now, I see why. LibraryThing contains some of the fun of searching in Amazon.com for books you have read, or want to read. Opportunities to read the ranking and the reviews, lists of similar books, etc. (I have spent time on Amazon.com doing just that).
I entered about eight books that I have read recently - quite different in subject matter. It was fun to look at links for other people who have some of the same books. This, I will continue to access - but I see no work-related application. Though we in my library were just discussing using publicly available tools for a catalog - I see how this could be done, and quite easily !
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Thing 13 - Online Productivity Tools
Before starting - I've been well aware that since the beginning of September, I've had roughly 15 blogs to do in 15 days in order to meet the 15th deadline. Simply, a blog a day (whether or not I'm exhausted or it's past 11 PM). Now, at last, online productivity tools. And the countdown widget . . . can I load it on the top of my page? (attempted, see above)
I found iGoogle to be the most pleasing customized home page, but not surprisingly, it seemed to already know a lot about me like my metro area, and a few interests (I was already logged in to Blogger edit mode).
At work, have our own library web site, so I'm not looking for any other home page. But I do wonder if any of these personalizations, these widgets, could be made available to users inside the company?
Additionally, this whole 23 things project has ignited a desire to do some non-work related blogging, and I can see making use of many of these tools in my home life/on MY home computer (also a desire).
In the midst of exploring these productivity tools, I decided I'd like to have some non-invasive background music, so I plugged into MPR classical. I was surprised later when I logged into a demo of Backpack that I didn't loose my music, it just played in the background.
Backpack is quite cool. I especially liked the capacity to email myself reminders. I wish my work calendar system could do this. Again, back to the firewall issues at work. I know that with each email revision, we hear that there are more Internet options they are trying to incorporate, and now I think I see some of what they might be, but again, firewall issues probably cause problems.
As for my home life, it might be nice to be able to send or update family to-do lists and planning for the weekend. And especially nice to be able to send it to someone else's iphone (not quite sure that this is available, but worth a try - feature shown on 'remember the milk').
I think for all of the apps I have looked at today, they are most applicable to my home life. I have a huge extended family event coming up in over a year (we're a small family, but spready thinly over the globe), and Basecamp looks like a good tool.
I found iGoogle to be the most pleasing customized home page, but not surprisingly, it seemed to already know a lot about me like my metro area, and a few interests (I was already logged in to Blogger edit mode).
At work, have our own library web site, so I'm not looking for any other home page. But I do wonder if any of these personalizations, these widgets, could be made available to users inside the company?
Additionally, this whole 23 things project has ignited a desire to do some non-work related blogging, and I can see making use of many of these tools in my home life/on MY home computer (also a desire).
In the midst of exploring these productivity tools, I decided I'd like to have some non-invasive background music, so I plugged into MPR classical. I was surprised later when I logged into a demo of Backpack that I didn't loose my music, it just played in the background.
Backpack is quite cool. I especially liked the capacity to email myself reminders. I wish my work calendar system could do this. Again, back to the firewall issues at work. I know that with each email revision, we hear that there are more Internet options they are trying to incorporate, and now I think I see some of what they might be, but again, firewall issues probably cause problems.
As for my home life, it might be nice to be able to send or update family to-do lists and planning for the weekend. And especially nice to be able to send it to someone else's iphone (not quite sure that this is available, but worth a try - feature shown on 'remember the milk').
I think for all of the apps I have looked at today, they are most applicable to my home life. I have a huge extended family event coming up in over a year (we're a small family, but spready thinly over the globe), and Basecamp looks like a good tool.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Thing 12 - Do you Digg?
Social media sites. In some ways, these seem to me like the worst of the Internet. What people like - more than what is valid, vetted, peer reviewed. Well, I guess peer reviewed, but not necessarily high quality. Tabloids with votes. I guess the real worst thing is that they can suck you in . . .to stories that you didn't want to read, and waste time that you didn't have!
I liked Newsvine the best - as it seems that the stories are all professionally produced. And categorized. Automatically locally relevent. And it seemed at first glance to be less entertainment-type fluff. I liked the graphic tools so you can viw the most commmented upon stories, and the most voted upon. The time I looked, they were highlighting special 'groups', such as feminists and conservative coalition (both are private groups). If I found an apropriate group, I may find increased agreement with votes and comments.
I actually signed up for Mixx, just to see what it's like in more depth. I realized from the tour that I can select only the types of stories I want to see, so maybe I can cut some of the fluff. I aranged my page to show me Science, Technology, and specific text searches.
As for using this tool in my library - I can't see it. I can't see how this could be relevent to my work. Unless, with time, I realize that the Sci/Tech categories in Mixx may acually have relevence, may provide another way to get to the cutting edge. The breaking news in my technology area. I'll read for a few weeks, and revisit this question.
I liked Newsvine the best - as it seems that the stories are all professionally produced. And categorized. Automatically locally relevent. And it seemed at first glance to be less entertainment-type fluff. I liked the graphic tools so you can viw the most commmented upon stories, and the most voted upon. The time I looked, they were highlighting special 'groups', such as feminists and conservative coalition (both are private groups). If I found an apropriate group, I may find increased agreement with votes and comments.
I actually signed up for Mixx, just to see what it's like in more depth. I realized from the tour that I can select only the types of stories I want to see, so maybe I can cut some of the fluff. I aranged my page to show me Science, Technology, and specific text searches.
As for using this tool in my library - I can't see it. I can't see how this could be relevent to my work. Unless, with time, I realize that the Sci/Tech categories in Mixx may acually have relevence, may provide another way to get to the cutting edge. The breaking news in my technology area. I'll read for a few weeks, and revisit this question.
Thing 11 - Tagging and Del.icio.us
The synchronicity of this tool, Del.icio.us and an expressed need in a work meeting today is pretty amazing. I was in a meeting with people who will all be representing my library organization at a two-day conference. We are grouped in pairs, and each pair takes a three hour shift, and we'll need to be able to access several links to demonstrate tools to booth visitors. We'll be using one shared computer, and we will each log on to this computer. Since we won't be on out own computers, we won't have our bookmarks.
Caveat - I need a social networking tool which functions behind my company's firewall. And I just realized that my internal library web page has a front page which I can customize with my favorite tools - like a personal bookmark list within our library website. Is this some similar social bookmarking tool (without the ability to make my own labels)?
Enter Del.icio.us, or another bookmarking tool (I want to try citeulike, which seems like it may be more academic. And understanding how a tool can be more academic, may another tool be more political, or more humorous? Or more flirty? Or since the tool is used by so many, those differences are mediated by following the tags, and the taggers that appeal to me?)
Back to this social bookmarking tool, I am not currently on my own computer, so I don't want to add any links now, but I do want to try this soon.
Caveat - I need a social networking tool which functions behind my company's firewall. And I just realized that my internal library web page has a front page which I can customize with my favorite tools - like a personal bookmark list within our library website. Is this some similar social bookmarking tool (without the ability to make my own labels)?
Enter Del.icio.us, or another bookmarking tool (I want to try citeulike, which seems like it may be more academic. And understanding how a tool can be more academic, may another tool be more political, or more humorous? Or more flirty? Or since the tool is used by so many, those differences are mediated by following the tags, and the taggers that appeal to me?)
Back to this social bookmarking tool, I am not currently on my own computer, so I don't want to add any links now, but I do want to try this soon.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Thing 10 - Wikis
This focus on Wikis was fun and informative. The video was particularly well done. It demonstrated quite well how a wiki can be a great tool compared to email when a group of people is trying to accomplish something - like organizing a camping trip.
One of my colleagues set up a wiki for my work group, and it was fun to explore the tool, but we had very few contributions. A few people added notes after attending a conference or meeting, but no one else ever commented or edited (that I knew of).
It was informative to review some wikis used in libraries. In particular, it is amazing to see how effective it can be for organizing reviews of books. A real and collaborative 'readers advisory'.
On the other hand, one of the other wikis is now limited to people who are members, as there had been vandalism to the site. The problem with a resource available to anonymous people.
I took a look at the library bloggers wiki, which looks like someplace I could stand to spend a lot more time. There's even a section for 'special' libraries. Publicly funded, of course, none obviously corporate.
I only looked closely at one, the 'Royal College of Midwives' library, and they posted their last blog in February 2008: The RCM Library is closing on February 16th 2008. The stock is being put into storage and the library staff have been declared redundant. There will therefore be no more entries in this blog. It will be retained on Blogger, however, for reference.
Such a sad thing, and memorialized here, on a blog from Minnesota.
Which brings me back to my library organization's defunct wiki (last I looked). We probably lacked a reason to go to the wiki, and had no incentive to contribute. I heard people say that they are worried about writing or complaining - which they seem to do in every workplace. People need some sort of incentive. The readers wikis were a great example. . .
Maybe a place to go for fun? The joke of the day? Of course, humour can be a fine line, with sharp teeth if you slip.
One of my colleagues set up a wiki for my work group, and it was fun to explore the tool, but we had very few contributions. A few people added notes after attending a conference or meeting, but no one else ever commented or edited (that I knew of).
It was informative to review some wikis used in libraries. In particular, it is amazing to see how effective it can be for organizing reviews of books. A real and collaborative 'readers advisory'.
On the other hand, one of the other wikis is now limited to people who are members, as there had been vandalism to the site. The problem with a resource available to anonymous people.
I took a look at the library bloggers wiki, which looks like someplace I could stand to spend a lot more time. There's even a section for 'special' libraries. Publicly funded, of course, none obviously corporate.
I only looked closely at one, the 'Royal College of Midwives' library, and they posted their last blog in February 2008: The RCM Library is closing on February 16th 2008. The stock is being put into storage and the library staff have been declared redundant. There will therefore be no more entries in this blog. It will be retained on Blogger, however, for reference.
Such a sad thing, and memorialized here, on a blog from Minnesota.
Which brings me back to my library organization's defunct wiki (last I looked). We probably lacked a reason to go to the wiki, and had no incentive to contribute. I heard people say that they are worried about writing or complaining - which they seem to do in every workplace. People need some sort of incentive. The readers wikis were a great example. . .
Maybe a place to go for fun? The joke of the day? Of course, humour can be a fine line, with sharp teeth if you slip.
Thing 9 - Online Collaboration Tools
I liked the Zoho Writer better than Google Docs, because the Zoho Writer link worked for me (and has a funner name). It was fun to read the changes and edits.
I wish I had read ahead and completed all these little communication tasks (emailing to request a couple of invitations) months ago (when I barely had time for thing #2). But to stop now, and send an email, so that I can actually edit, then comment - it's a bit of a delay.
Seeing all these multiple edits (Zoho in particular), I imagine that each editor has to be able to recognize their own edits, which probably accounts for all the colors and funny widget/icon things.
This makes me recall that I read that a scientist has developed an improvement to the wiki system such that an editor/contributor is thoroughly and accurately identified, and that anything that person writes can be absolutely attributed to that person (so someone else can't enter comments on behalf of someone else).
Well, I jumped through all the hoops for the Google Docs, and found that editing the document worked just fine. It was fun to edit.
Since there are more degrees of separation for the Zoho product, it was much more frustrating to log on to. The log on page suggested that I could use either my Yahoo password or my Google password, but neither seemed to work. I finally got into Zoho, but then couldn't bring up the document that I wanted to edit. Grrr!
I now have passwords all over the place, and am not sure which ones are active where. So, I never actually got into the Zoho doc, which sounded more fun based on the name. I guess you can't judge a product by its name. Or, those products which fall under the same banner or password system aer much easier to incorporate into ones life.
I wish I had read ahead and completed all these little communication tasks (emailing to request a couple of invitations) months ago (when I barely had time for thing #2). But to stop now, and send an email, so that I can actually edit, then comment - it's a bit of a delay.
Seeing all these multiple edits (Zoho in particular), I imagine that each editor has to be able to recognize their own edits, which probably accounts for all the colors and funny widget/icon things.
This makes me recall that I read that a scientist has developed an improvement to the wiki system such that an editor/contributor is thoroughly and accurately identified, and that anything that person writes can be absolutely attributed to that person (so someone else can't enter comments on behalf of someone else).
Well, I jumped through all the hoops for the Google Docs, and found that editing the document worked just fine. It was fun to edit.
Since there are more degrees of separation for the Zoho product, it was much more frustrating to log on to. The log on page suggested that I could use either my Yahoo password or my Google password, but neither seemed to work. I finally got into Zoho, but then couldn't bring up the document that I wanted to edit. Grrr!
I now have passwords all over the place, and am not sure which ones are active where. So, I never actually got into the Zoho doc, which sounded more fun based on the name. I guess you can't judge a product by its name. Or, those products which fall under the same banner or password system aer much easier to incorporate into ones life.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Thing 8 - Share your creations
Well, my first thought is that when I was a newly minted librarian in this organization, I was taught to always bring backup transparencies whenever I had to make a presentation. We had PowerPoint slides which I'd send in the network, or have loaded on the hard drive of the department laptop we'd use ( I couldn't believe that transparencies were used, but every conference room had an overhead projector in the corner, as a backup). Recently, the backup of choice has been a memory stick. But to load my set of slides onto the Internet - quite a concept (if I can trust the network connections).
I'd love to set up a database on books I've read, for my personal use. From a professional perspective, it would be nice to have a web-based resource available for comments on books or journals that my library is acquiring (print and/or online). People within our system could comment on titles they've read or ordered? Or, I'm looking for feedback on a resource - maybe I could sent a note or link to my user group that they could share thoughts? A blog, even?? (duh!)
Well, I've settled on a Flikr badge to meet the requirements of this 'thing', but my interest is sparked on how to help my clients communicate on a resource that I monitor. Kind of a no-brainer, but that's why I'm here . . .
I'd love to set up a database on books I've read, for my personal use. From a professional perspective, it would be nice to have a web-based resource available for comments on books or journals that my library is acquiring (print and/or online). People within our system could comment on titles they've read or ordered? Or, I'm looking for feedback on a resource - maybe I could sent a note or link to my user group that they could share thoughts? A blog, even?? (duh!)
Well, I've settled on a Flikr badge to meet the requirements of this 'thing', but my interest is sparked on how to help my clients communicate on a resource that I monitor. Kind of a no-brainer, but that's why I'm here . . .
| www.flickr.com |
Thing 7 - Web 2.0 Communication Tools
As I wrote in blog 2, on Thoughts about Library 2.0, it's always interesting to remind ourselves that even simple email is really a internet communication tool (Web 2.0).
EMAIL - I read through the productivity hints for email, and I was surprised to not see one listed that I think is critical - make sure your subject line is descriptive, and updated. When making successive communications about a subject, add a line or word relevant to discussion, such as 'I object to the first agenda item', or 'I can't make the meeting on the 4th'. Gist of message can often be summarized in subject line for your recipient.
INSTANT MESSAGING - It was mandated quite a few years ago that everyone in my information organization get an IM account, and we're expected to log on at the start of every day. I found it helpful early on to add some clients to my list, and then I could tell by the icon when they were logged on, and then call them when needed. This helps with those in a different time zone.
One nice thing about our IM service that it seems to stay logged in even when I remove my laptop from its base and move to a different location. Last week I had to meet a client in a different building, and while I was out I had offered to drop in on a second client in yet another building. While I was still meeting with the first, client #2 used IM to confirm our meeting (and offer to meet me in the location of my first meeting). I don't think I'd ever had a client track me down using IM, but it sure was handy ! My laptop as a portable communication device !
TEXT MESSAGING - I read and watched videos related to TM, but still don't quite see how useful it would be in our corporate world. Fascinating to see that capabilities are being included in library automation or management tools. I think there are some fuzzy grey areas between these technologies, as one can easily program their email to deliver to their mobile phone, so a person can pick up emails easily (maybe this is only true for i-phones? That's my experience).
WEB CONFERENCING - not much to say about this. Like the telephone in an office - critical for doing certain types of business. I've been amazed at the various web conference tools that vendors have used to host their meetings with our staff. Most seem free (or maybe vendor pays something -??). Many are clearly free. But I'm not required to evaluate or choose these tools. Probably change quickly anyway.
TWITTER - seems just crazy! May be a nice way to combine different tools in one place, and I could see this in a public or academic library reference desk. And the unusual situations, like while attending a professional conference, and discussing while sitting in the audience. Might be an interesting transcript to bring back to help explain some components of what was discussed at the conference. This would be a nice productivity enhancer.
EMAIL - I read through the productivity hints for email, and I was surprised to not see one listed that I think is critical - make sure your subject line is descriptive, and updated. When making successive communications about a subject, add a line or word relevant to discussion, such as 'I object to the first agenda item', or 'I can't make the meeting on the 4th'. Gist of message can often be summarized in subject line for your recipient.
INSTANT MESSAGING - It was mandated quite a few years ago that everyone in my information organization get an IM account, and we're expected to log on at the start of every day. I found it helpful early on to add some clients to my list, and then I could tell by the icon when they were logged on, and then call them when needed. This helps with those in a different time zone.
One nice thing about our IM service that it seems to stay logged in even when I remove my laptop from its base and move to a different location. Last week I had to meet a client in a different building, and while I was out I had offered to drop in on a second client in yet another building. While I was still meeting with the first, client #2 used IM to confirm our meeting (and offer to meet me in the location of my first meeting). I don't think I'd ever had a client track me down using IM, but it sure was handy ! My laptop as a portable communication device !
TEXT MESSAGING - I read and watched videos related to TM, but still don't quite see how useful it would be in our corporate world. Fascinating to see that capabilities are being included in library automation or management tools. I think there are some fuzzy grey areas between these technologies, as one can easily program their email to deliver to their mobile phone, so a person can pick up emails easily (maybe this is only true for i-phones? That's my experience).
WEB CONFERENCING - not much to say about this. Like the telephone in an office - critical for doing certain types of business. I've been amazed at the various web conference tools that vendors have used to host their meetings with our staff. Most seem free (or maybe vendor pays something -??). Many are clearly free. But I'm not required to evaluate or choose these tools. Probably change quickly anyway.
TWITTER - seems just crazy! May be a nice way to combine different tools in one place, and I could see this in a public or academic library reference desk. And the unusual situations, like while attending a professional conference, and discussing while sitting in the audience. Might be an interesting transcript to bring back to help explain some components of what was discussed at the conference. This would be a nice productivity enhancer.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Thing 6 - Online Image Generators
Well, I have generated a trading card. It went pretty smoothly. I tried to enlarge the original photo and cut out background, but I didn't succeed. I probably need some sort of photo editing software. I am also a bit uncomfortable using 'browse' on a site such as this - can someone view the contents of my files? I hope not. Not that I'm paranoid . . .
I put a file photo of my cat Dimitri, who passed away just about a year ago. I miss him.
As for the applications of this software, it is quite clear that the 'trading card' concept has been used fabulously by staff at the Carleton library. I saw them when I toured their library in May, and was really impressed. We in corporate libraries use business cards for our 'clients', but these cards are creative and inspired. Memorable. Clear applications in the corporate world!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Thing 5 - More Flickr Fun
Well, I am finally getting to play. I explored the Flickr mashups.
I really liked the color picker - really relaxing to play with this tool. This tool would be useful if I were trying to do something creative. But scrolling through it was relaxing. If one could make the photos nearly full size, and the other information on the page much smaller, it would be interactively meditative.
The options on the puzzle link were fun, but in order to do anything, I had to give them access to my blog, and then trust them. Maybe I already did some of that trusting in Thing 4, but the trust issues weren't so clearly laid out in warning text. I enjoyed the spell tool, and chose a word that I like. Now I'll see if I have learned anything about uploading . . .
It looks like it may have worked, but there is some html text showing. Hopefully it will disappear when I post. Again, try it and find out . . .
I really liked the color picker - really relaxing to play with this tool. This tool would be useful if I were trying to do something creative. But scrolling through it was relaxing. If one could make the photos nearly full size, and the other information on the page much smaller, it would be interactively meditative.
The options on the puzzle link were fun, but in order to do anything, I had to give them access to my blog, and then trust them. Maybe I already did some of that trusting in Thing 4, but the trust issues weren't so clearly laid out in warning text. I enjoyed the spell tool, and chose a word that I like. Now I'll see if I have learned anything about uploading . . .
It looks like it may have worked, but there is some html text showing. Hopefully it will disappear when I post. Again, try it and find out . . .
Thing 4.2 Flickr: Sunset fishing
I guess I have now been successful in adding this photo from Flickr to my blog. It's a beautiful photo taken in Vietnam near Hoi An. Photographer is Kalabird.
I should be learning that Flickr is a really cool tool, which I guess I am, but I'm more amazed by the fact that I have now somehow linked my new Flickr account to this blog. I then posted from within Flickr and then the posting appeared here on my Blogger 23 things blog. These accounts are now all linked together, and I'm leaving a mile-wide trail behind me.
If I ever set up a personal blog, with my own photos, it will be really easy to send my own photos to the blog (I couldn't send photos of my work library, as in my corporate world, I'm not allowed to take photos in my library. So that option is not the right thing to do, but now I see how I could do it. Learning the capabilities by trial and error. . . .
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Thing 4 - Explore Flickr
Well, I'm doing my 'explore Flickr' thing today. I have wanted to learn about Flikr since I first heard about it a couple of years ago. And now that I have a digital camera and 2000 (+) photos I took in April - l reallyI am willing to learn about any photo management tool.
So, my introductory exploration of Flickr has been to search for label Vietnam, and download a photo that I found stunning ( this one which I couldn't load is called Sunset fishing, by Kalabird).
Now I'm getting bogged down in how to load a photo, when I CAN download a photo, etc. I was intending to follow the insstructions, but I don't know if I have the right to download. I was planning to credit the author, but this seems more complicated that I had thought. In the midst of this, I received a message that my photo has been downloaded to Flickr. Now I wonder - which photo of mine went there? I'm a bit worried.
I expect I'll get further involved in one of these tools, and (intentionally) load some of my own work, but until then, I'd like to see what this looks like as a posting.
So, my introductory exploration of Flickr has been to search for label Vietnam, and download a photo that I found stunning ( this one which I couldn't load is called Sunset fishing, by Kalabird).
Now I'm getting bogged down in how to load a photo, when I CAN download a photo, etc. I was intending to follow the insstructions, but I don't know if I have the right to download. I was planning to credit the author, but this seems more complicated that I had thought. In the midst of this, I received a message that my photo has been downloaded to Flickr. Now I wonder - which photo of mine went there? I'm a bit worried.
I expect I'll get further involved in one of these tools, and (intentionally) load some of my own work, but until then, I'd like to see what this looks like as a posting.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Thing 3 - RSS Feeds
RSS feeds, I've been using for years, already. I am an avid subscriber to NPR (and WPR) podcasts, which I download onto my MP3 player (started with an iPod shuffle, but it put any and all music before my podcasts, so I downgraded to a cheap MP3 player so now I catch up on my favorite radio shows while at the gym, gardening, walking the dog [these must be my hobbies]).
At one point, I even subscribed to some podcasts from some medical journals, thinking that there may be some work-related application. But the casts were dull as mud, and I tired of the project.
As for web pages I check regularly, I do the news, but hardly want to see every update to that page. It would be nice to discover some interesting blogs to check regularly, something to allow me to feel tuned in and connected to those things that are important to me. But that takes time. Right now, I only need to develop the skills to use RSS feeds, and to get links to interesting material onto my blog.
So, what to subscribe to? Oh how I wish I had all day. And that I wanted to include ALL of my interests on my reader. I decided to cut to the most practical and ideally somehow related to some aspect of my profession - I scanned quite a few other 23 things participants’ blogs and looked at the RSS feeds they subscribed to. Or I subscribed to some 23 things participant blogs that I found to be active and interesting. And I subscribed to the one person I know with a blog on the system (of course, her blog is active and interesting).
This will be an ongoing project, as I take these 23 things, and more broadly, the 2.0 skills that I learn into my real life.
At one point, I even subscribed to some podcasts from some medical journals, thinking that there may be some work-related application. But the casts were dull as mud, and I tired of the project.
As for web pages I check regularly, I do the news, but hardly want to see every update to that page. It would be nice to discover some interesting blogs to check regularly, something to allow me to feel tuned in and connected to those things that are important to me. But that takes time. Right now, I only need to develop the skills to use RSS feeds, and to get links to interesting material onto my blog.
So, what to subscribe to? Oh how I wish I had all day. And that I wanted to include ALL of my interests on my reader. I decided to cut to the most practical and ideally somehow related to some aspect of my profession - I scanned quite a few other 23 things participants’ blogs and looked at the RSS feeds they subscribed to. Or I subscribed to some 23 things participant blogs that I found to be active and interesting. And I subscribed to the one person I know with a blog on the system (of course, her blog is active and interesting).
This will be an ongoing project, as I take these 23 things, and more broadly, the 2.0 skills that I learn into my real life.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Thing 2 - Library 2.0
lToday one of my colleagues Chris made a presentation to my department on the subject of Library 2.0. I have been reading and thinking about this subject (and trying to find the time to read more - but that's another posting), but not putting anything into print. Instead of trying to do more research, I think I'll summarize my colleague, who has taught a course to librarians on this subject. Then I can move on to the many tools that we will be covering, and that, really, is why I'm here.
Chris started with one major point - that Library 2.0 is all about interaction and collaboration. And that all of us are probably already using Library 2.0 tools, without even knowing it. We have shared databases that we use together, interactive meeting software, chat tools that we use for quick messages among colleagues. These tools are regular tools, things we use daily, and not some great scary unknown.
With these palliative thoughts in mind, Chris moved on to other tools. The things we may have only heard about. She gave us a quick tour of Google docs, the tool she has used to build the presentation slides she was using. This tool, hosted 'out on the web', can be used to collaborate on documents with others, anywhere on line - which brought up the caveat - not behind a firewall - an issue to keep in mind in the corporate environment. We quickly stepped into the concept of blogs, reading them, organizing them, keeping up with them using RSS feeds. Lots of people in my group read blogs regularly, but only a few of us (two) have a blog ( I was so proud to raise my hand). Chris quickly built a blog, right before our eyes, using Blogger! Her point - easy and accessible to all of us.
Chris quickly stepped through some other cool tools - flicker, wikis, wikipedia, our in-house wiki tool Maven, and then into the social networking sites. She discussed Facebook briefly, then showed us the 'professional' networking tool, LinkedIn. With fine finesse, she showed us the LinkedIn page of our highly networked boss. Oohs filled the room.
So, Library 2.0 is clearly already here - in my own back yard. But I'm even more inspired by all those tools that I haven't used that I want to dip my toes into. I have been motivated to learn them, and this 23 things on a stick is a structured opportunity for me to play with them. Onwards.
And, thanks Chris!
Addendum -
The course description for Chris' course earlier this summer:
Library 2.0 and Social Networking
This course will examine the advent of social networking tools, the creation of online collaboration and communities via those tools and their adoption by libraries as well as the rise of Library 2.0 thinking, a service philosophy born out of discussions of Web 2.0 and participatory library services. Students will experience an immersive learning environment via blogs, wikis, IM and social networking sites. We will discuss the definitions of Library 2.0, examine the tools and examine what this shift means for libraries in the 21st Century.
Chris started with one major point - that Library 2.0 is all about interaction and collaboration. And that all of us are probably already using Library 2.0 tools, without even knowing it. We have shared databases that we use together, interactive meeting software, chat tools that we use for quick messages among colleagues. These tools are regular tools, things we use daily, and not some great scary unknown.
With these palliative thoughts in mind, Chris moved on to other tools. The things we may have only heard about. She gave us a quick tour of Google docs, the tool she has used to build the presentation slides she was using. This tool, hosted 'out on the web', can be used to collaborate on documents with others, anywhere on line - which brought up the caveat - not behind a firewall - an issue to keep in mind in the corporate environment. We quickly stepped into the concept of blogs, reading them, organizing them, keeping up with them using RSS feeds. Lots of people in my group read blogs regularly, but only a few of us (two) have a blog ( I was so proud to raise my hand). Chris quickly built a blog, right before our eyes, using Blogger! Her point - easy and accessible to all of us.
Chris quickly stepped through some other cool tools - flicker, wikis, wikipedia, our in-house wiki tool Maven, and then into the social networking sites. She discussed Facebook briefly, then showed us the 'professional' networking tool, LinkedIn. With fine finesse, she showed us the LinkedIn page of our highly networked boss. Oohs filled the room.
So, Library 2.0 is clearly already here - in my own back yard. But I'm even more inspired by all those tools that I haven't used that I want to dip my toes into. I have been motivated to learn them, and this 23 things on a stick is a structured opportunity for me to play with them. Onwards.
And, thanks Chris!
Addendum -
The course description for Chris' course earlier this summer:
Library 2.0 and Social Networking
This course will examine the advent of social networking tools, the creation of online collaboration and communities via those tools and their adoption by libraries as well as the rise of Library 2.0 thinking, a service philosophy born out of discussions of Web 2.0 and participatory library services. Students will experience an immersive learning environment via blogs, wikis, IM and social networking sites. We will discuss the definitions of Library 2.0, examine the tools and examine what this shift means for libraries in the 21st Century.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Thing 1.5 - the confluence of free time and functioning technology
Last week, I had been thinkging about Thing 2 - Library 2.0. Lots of fresh ideas, I only needed to sit down and see what would float to the top of my conscousness. Except - my lawn HAD to be mowed. I ran home during my 'free' hour, and mowed the lawn. It was so happy for the attention.
Second opportunity, I sat down in my favorite coffee shop spot, and tried to connect. And tried to connect. I hadn't noticed in previous visits the 'name' of the particluar network I had been using. I just connected right up. But this time, i jiggled all my settings, went through all my options and properties. After 30 minutes, I asked the other laptop user in the room, and she told me the system is down. No known fix (and even worse, I hadn't brought anything else to read!!!).
So, after dinking again this time, I finally am in, but don't have those golden words at the tip of my fingers. Just to say that I was searching some concept at work last week, looking for a graphic or promotional document that would explain a product to one of my clients, and I found, in a basic google search a posting from the SLA blog last month (actually, this month, for a few more hours). There was my answer, from a librarian blog, and I wasn't even looking for that!
It seems that Library2.0 may already be here, if I am able to find it without even looking. More next time on Library 2.0 specifically.
Second opportunity, I sat down in my favorite coffee shop spot, and tried to connect. And tried to connect. I hadn't noticed in previous visits the 'name' of the particluar network I had been using. I just connected right up. But this time, i jiggled all my settings, went through all my options and properties. After 30 minutes, I asked the other laptop user in the room, and she told me the system is down. No known fix (and even worse, I hadn't brought anything else to read!!!).
So, after dinking again this time, I finally am in, but don't have those golden words at the tip of my fingers. Just to say that I was searching some concept at work last week, looking for a graphic or promotional document that would explain a product to one of my clients, and I found, in a basic google search a posting from the SLA blog last month (actually, this month, for a few more hours). There was my answer, from a librarian blog, and I wasn't even looking for that!
It seems that Library2.0 may already be here, if I am able to find it without even looking. More next time on Library 2.0 specifically.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Thing #1 Set up my Blog
I have two free hours each week near a coffee shop with free WiFi while my son does his Tae Kwan Do, so two hours a week should be enough to make a dent in this project.
I actually set up my blog with the last posting, but now I'm taking a few minutes to think about the whole thing. So, I'll title this posting as 'Thing #1'.
Setting up my blog for the first time - an exhilarating process - I had a tight schedule, and was trying to get the Blog, the Avitar, and all the details set up, and take careful notes so I would be able to get back in. And then find the time to actually post.
In the mean time, I have taken a few minutes to review some other postings, especially from the first session of '23 things', and it looks like quite a few people managed the exhilaration of Thing 1, but never made it back in.
Also, while looking at other blogs, I see some academic librarians, quite a few public librarians, but I've only noticed one (from the previous session) who were from a corporate library. I'm quite curious how web 2.0 (library 2.0) can/will fit into the corporate library environment (not to anticipate my thoughts about thing #2) .
My workplace has made some stabs at wikis and blogs for different workgroups and corporate-wide, so in a sense people all around me are trying to see how these new technologies will fit into our futures as individuals and organizations, and I'm hoping to use this experience to get my mind around these opportunities. The technologies are here (even in the corporation), but how can we apply them? Stay tuned!
I actually set up my blog with the last posting, but now I'm taking a few minutes to think about the whole thing. So, I'll title this posting as 'Thing #1'.
Setting up my blog for the first time - an exhilarating process - I had a tight schedule, and was trying to get the Blog, the Avitar, and all the details set up, and take careful notes so I would be able to get back in. And then find the time to actually post.
In the mean time, I have taken a few minutes to review some other postings, especially from the first session of '23 things', and it looks like quite a few people managed the exhilaration of Thing 1, but never made it back in.
Also, while looking at other blogs, I see some academic librarians, quite a few public librarians, but I've only noticed one (from the previous session) who were from a corporate library. I'm quite curious how web 2.0 (library 2.0) can/will fit into the corporate library environment (not to anticipate my thoughts about thing #2) .
My workplace has made some stabs at wikis and blogs for different workgroups and corporate-wide, so in a sense people all around me are trying to see how these new technologies will fit into our futures as individuals and organizations, and I'm hoping to use this experience to get my mind around these opportunities. The technologies are here (even in the corporation), but how can we apply them? Stay tuned!
Friday, June 13, 2008
First blog posting
This would be my first blog, my first blog posting, and my first of 23 'things' for things on a stick. Let's get going.
I'm finding the littlest things really tricky. Like I 'published' a sentence, then chickened out and tried to back up. Really, I just put it into edit. Then had difficulty getting back into it.
I realized that I almost missed the deadline, but hopefully, since I managed to complete all four steps, I'm good to go. I'll need to find the resources to work on this from home, as clearly, this will be quite time consuming.
Need to work on another project today, so I'd better close this entry for 'thing 1'
I'm finding the littlest things really tricky. Like I 'published' a sentence, then chickened out and tried to back up. Really, I just put it into edit. Then had difficulty getting back into it.
I realized that I almost missed the deadline, but hopefully, since I managed to complete all four steps, I'm good to go. I'll need to find the resources to work on this from home, as clearly, this will be quite time consuming.
Need to work on another project today, so I'd better close this entry for 'thing 1'
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