Summary of the 2.0 program

I have to say that overall I found that many of the exercises in this program were useless, as far as helping to understand the future of libraries. Most of the exercises were focused on personal networking and had very little to do with customer service and research methods at the libraries. However there were a few noticeable exceptions, including RSS feeds and LibraryThing. When first embarking on this program, I thought that the main focus would be on valuable methods of research on the Internet to better service Library customers. While I did enjoy some of the exercises, a majority of the program was unclear (esp to someone with limited computer experience and a deep desire for privacy). I think that we need to improve our customer service methods...the first of which should be easier and more understandable access of the library website and catalog. From there, we should encourage our staff and patrons to be looking at research options, connecting with other Libraries and readers, usage of LibraryThing to generate book discussions and reviews, all the while maintaining active community interest in local Library programs and book clubs. Because, ultimately, the focus should always be on bringing the community into the Libraries to offer them access to books, media, information...and most of all, to each other. I will be continuing this blog for my own personal use, so look out for amusing vignettes and (possible) book and movie recommendations.

Library Thing website

Now this is an exercise/website that I actually did enjoy, because I was able to share my personal selections of books that I have read and enjoyed. I can see how this particular service would be beneficial to libraries because a reader could network with other libraries and well-read individuals for book recommendations and reviews. This is probably one of the only exercises in the whole Library 2.0 program that proves to be worthwhile.

Brave Bunny

Bunny Kicks Asp! At first I was concerned about the bunny but after watching it all the way through...you begin to feel sorry for the snake! My favorite part is when the snake tries to climb a tree to get away! Go Feisty Bunny Go!

ARRRGGGHHH!

Yo ho Yo ho A pirates life for me!
Originally uploaded by curlyprincessnoc.

It is I the dreaded pirate of the Library...and I 'll be taking over this here blog and there's nothing you can do about it! ARRRGGGHH!.......

.....Why is rum always gone?

SJPL Wiki

At first, I was really enjoying this exercise in that we were all sharing a list of our favorite books, movies, tv shows , etc. But when I was trying to upload a photo to one of the options, I think I accidentally deleted an entire wiki page and for that I apologize. But I also want to say that throughout this whole experience, I have been going through many trials and errors esp. in uploading photos to blogs or to other postings. Nothing has been sufficiently explained to me and, as of this moment, I am quiting the Learning 2.0 journey. I give up....I simply don't understand the exercises or the point of doing them any further. Goodbye

Library 2.0-Wave of the Future

I've just read several articles expressing opinions regarding the new Library 2.0-where libraries are heading into the future. I don't believe that Library collections will become obsolete, because many people enjoy the feeling of actually holding a book in their hands as they read to themselves and their children. Think of your favorite storybook that your mom or dad read to you as a child...now think of that same book available online, yet without the personal touch of reading it to your child, encouraging them to guess what happens next, and turning the pages together. There is something very cold and impersonal about reading a story to a child from a website or e-book. Also many people (myself included) choose not to spend so much time on the computer because the light from the computer and the size of the type tends to hurt our eyes. I would much rather take a book with me while travelling or at a coffee shop or at the beach. Reading a book in a public setting shows the world that you are studious yet approachable for conversation. Sitting in front of a computer in a public space very clearly sends out a message of "I'm busy don't bother me". Another cold and impersonal experience. Libraries will need their collections because some of us who choose to live our lives without so much technology, will still prefer the solace of a favorite book (i.e. curling up in a blanket in front of a fireplace with a book is a comfortable, romantic image...curling up in a blanket in front of a fireplace with a laptop ???). In other words, some of us still prefer reality to virtual reality, community instead of online community. I prefer to live fully and passionately, to embrace life to its fullest extent which cannot truly be done via website. The best thing that libraries can do is offer book clubs and special programs for the community because there are still people who want to connect with each other face to face rather than interface to interface. The Internet is a good tool for information and for sharing opinions, for learning more about the world and the opinions of other people in other countries...but it should only be used as a tool and not become a substitute for community, for thought-provoking conversation, or for the reality of life.

Technorati and tagging

More useless information on how to organize a blog according to subject heading. First of all, one of the biggest flaws with blogging is that it is all subjective experience perspective. No one is doing any fact checking in regards to blogs about subjects-in my opinion, blogging is being used as a substitute for factual information, news, and meaningful conversation. I can see where blogging can be used as a social networking tool, however I can safely say that no meaningful conversations have developped from my blogging. In fact, I can hardly wait until April 1st 2007 when I will probably delete my blog and not waste my time or my brain on techno-babble.