Thing 10: The Virtual Library Branch

While I've heard terms like ebook, eaudiobook, mp3 player, ipod, and evideo I really could never understand what they all did. I spent about 45 minutes with Ricki N. who helped me download a book and a video. She really helped me make sense of the variety of things we have. It is incredible and I strongly recommend her help if you need someone to get you through Thing 10.

As for my thoughts on the Library website, I think it's incredible. It looks great---I especially like that the homepage changes weekly and the changing pictures each week always give it a fresh look (can we get a cat picture one of these weeks?) After looking at some of the 'best public library websites' I would recommend adding a page where patrons could give gifts/donations. AHML has this kind of page and allows people to charge their donations. Another addition might be to have photos of the Board members, along with some info on each---ie how long they've served on the Board, their terms, any committees they're on, their memberships, their qualifications, and an email link.

Thing 9: Google Tools

Google Docs was easy to use, although I still prefer my familiar Microsoft Word. I couldn't find the toolbar to set the tabs but I can see how this can be helpful if you are doing a lot of editing and many people are involved and you don't want a zillion emails going back and forth.

I also checked out Google Maps. I was able to do a 360 on Oakton Street and see the Library and then travel down Oakton to Oakton Park. This is amazing albeit a little scary. Although this could also be useful if you're traveling to a new place and want to check it out in advance.

Thing 8: Wikis

Wikis are very interesting. I enjoyed entering info on the Library's wiki but being skeptical, I would be a leary of using a wiki for definitive concrete information. I guess I wouldn't trust that the info would be correct since I really don't know the source and, as I understand it, information could be changing all the time.

Thing 7: Podcasting

I listened to one library podcast that interviewed one of the 2007 Library Journal Movers and Shakers. It was interesting but would have benefited from a photo. I listened to another podcast re restaurant reviews in Chicago. This one had links and photos---much more interesting. I can see podcasting as a useful tool in promoting the Library or use at a board meeting so it can be listening to by the public or staff . Really easy to use!

Things 6: Social Bookmarking

Using delicious was very easy. I can see how this can add organization to your bookmarks.

Thing 5: Flicker

This was so cool. This would be a great way to keep a photo history of the Library. There are many photos sitting in files that could be scanned and put on a Flickr page; new pages could be added as the Library changes. We could also have a trustee page with their photo and bios about each one that patrons might find interesting.

My Sweetie Pies

My Sweetie Pies
Originally uploaded by theskokieten

Michael and Hal, Fall 2007