Social networking

Exploring MySpace has been interesting. Although the list of libraries using MySpace is aimed at teens the sites vary enormously. Some are very busy while others have nice clear screens. More important is the message that social networking is here to stay. Meredith Farkas (2006) in her article 'Libraries in social networking software' says that MySpace and Facebook are being used predominently by the 16 - 25 age group so seeing these websites being used effectively in library situations means that this section of the community is being catered for and is being encouraged to participate in ways previously unfamiliar in the library world. Recommending new books to the library acquisiions team takes on the new meaning when friends can question, comment, share and get ideas for their next read, next film (DVD), or next music (CD). To be vital, the site must be current and have constant contributors.

Podcastalley

I've just been exploring Podcastalley.com
I searched 'book news' which brought up an interesting list. My favourites are 'Compulsive reader talks' with author interviews and readings, and 'Radiobook lounge' which also has author interviews and readings, as well as audio reviews and storycasts for kids and adults. The list is quite extensive for just this one heading. I'm looking forward to revisiting the site and investigating further topics.

Bebo - Facebook

I didn't find the Auckland City libraries Bebo site easy to negotiate. The Rotorua public library Bebo site was clearer and for me, more informative and appealing. The idea of using these social networkign sites in the library situation is useful and would be a good way of finding out what our participating patrons like or don't like, in the context of services, collection content, and even ease of access to our subscription databases. It could be used for survey purposes. The trick would be how to achieve an across the spectrum sample response, which is a fair representation of the whole of our library community, in terms of age, race, gender and cultures. Even if it's only within the computer-literate clientele, a survey of this sort could be of use to identify where improvements could be made to existing services.

ebooks

I've had a good scout around google books and found and read some of my all-time favourite Shakespeare play, Twelfth Night What you will. It's not a relaxing way to read, at a computer. But it's convenient to know it's there to browse through. I like the way you can choose a genre from the list and the book selection changes giving a visual option to choose from. I had a good read of the beginning of a Nora Roberts book from the romance selection. I've never read one of her books. This is a good way to see if you like an author's writing style. Just one more way to get ideas for your next read. I can't see myself doing more than just dipping. Have to be careful not to get too engrossed in a book, or many hours later I may find myself cross and cross-eyed from reading the screen.

YouTube - Tango

I really couldn't get into YouTube. Sure there are some interesting videos, however, that was before I viewed Vera's blog. As a tango dancer I loved Libertango (Piazzolla) on Vera's blog. As I explored the site I found Libertango with dancer Pablo Alonzo and partner. This video has some good basic tango steps (except for the splits and lifts). I have to agree with Vera that video clips could be quite useful in the library. I was thinking along the lines of user education for specific patrons. Maybe OPAC instruction for Seniors; and/or as we have a large Asian population maybe also in Korean, Cantonese and Mandarin. Perhaps they could be imbedded in the library home page? The promotional aspect with videos of our services has huge potential..with many possibilities.

Web 2.0 - Reader 2.com

Out of the Web 2.0 top 1000 I chose to look at http://reader2.com
This is a good site to list the books you've read and /or recommend. You can add books, view someone else's books, and they can view yours. There's the option to add extra data to each book, eg. description, link or tags.
Tags will categorize books these are shown on left of the screen - click on - to find new and interesting books to read.
To join you need to add 10-20 books first.
One thing I disliked is that the list format doesn't show the book's publication date. An interesting site all the same.

Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer... This word processor means that you can use any computer, anywhere. No need for a USB except for back-up convenience. Having your documents online means, no more emailing back and forth, colleagues can review from the original, make inline comments, or use the chat facilities. The privacy issue would be my concers. There are enormous possibilities with this site, with many features which can be applied using the drop-down menus.
o One would have to know the site thoroughly
o Working online all the time could be costly for home users - though there's the option of taking your document offline to view and to edit.
It's an interesting site with heaps to explore when I've got more time.