Thing 17: Podcasts

It was very convenient that I had a Podcasting Webinar the same week as Thing 17. I learned all about the different equipment you can use and the various ways you can promote your library. My boss had asked me to "study-up" on the topic because she would like to see podcasts for book reviews, upcoming programs, and other fun things made available to our public. I don't know if I have learned enough about it yet to jump right in and start writing my first script, but I am getting more comfortable witht he idea (especially now that my library has made its first YouTube video!).

Thing 16: YouTube

Why did you choose the video that you did? I absolutely L.O.V.E. Amy Winfrey so I thought I would share her work with everyone else.

Can you see any ways to use video--YouTube or other sites--on your library Web site? We already use YouTube on our library website. It's great for posting upcoming movies based on books that our library system owns. This helps increase the circulation of titles that may not have been checked out in a while.

Thing 15: Rollyo

Can you see a potential use for Rollyo in your library?
I can definitely see the potential for Children's and Reference Librarians using Rollyo. What a great way to find new resources and share those resources with others.

Thing 14: Online Productivity Tools

Which start page did you choose? Why did that one appeal to you?
I have had 3 start pages for years: iGoogle, My Yahoo!, & My MSN. Of the 3, I use My Yahoo! because I have instant access to the email I use the most. However, I actually prefer the features and gadgets on iGoogle more even though I never use it.

Did you find a tool that has some uses for you at the library or at home?
Not at the moment.

How can the online calendars be useful to you? What about the to-do lists—helpful, too much work…?
Currently I have no use for these "time-saving" productivity tools but as life changes I will keep them in mind and keep up witht he lastest technologies because you never know when someone will ask you a question about them!

Thing 13: Library Thing

I took the Library Thing tour and created (yet another) account. I groaned over the idea of having to input ALL my books from my GoodReads account into Library Thing but found that this was not as difficult or time consuming as I imagined it would be. I was able to export my GoodReads list to a file then import that list into Library Thing.

I have to say though....I prefer GoodReads. Library Thing can be a little overwhelming for someone who is new to keeping a record of all the books they have read, are currently reading, or would like to read in the future. GoodReads has a simple format that just feels more user-friendly to me and I think I will just stick with it.

I have heard talk about Library Thing being integrated into SJCPLS. I can see how this would be a valuable tool for a library system - allowing readers to post book reviews, form clubs, and suggest books for others.