Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Wikis
I posted my opinion on the sandbox, and basically said that wikis are a good place to start when you have absolutely no idea where to start when researching a subject. I never, ever use it as a source in and of itself. To see why, go to
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_did_Edgar_Allan_Poe_die
and after reading the "answer" you'll understand. Woe to the person who looks on a wiki for medical advice!
I read some of the library wikis, and I do like the idea of book reviews and opinions. However, if it's open to the public, a librarian needs to monitor the site to correct grammar and deal with inappropriate entries. Yes, one more task for the librarian. Since I've started this post, I've been interrupted four times. You get the picture.
I would really like to see a librarian access only community wiki. It would be nice for people to think of the library wiki as a place to start when they need info about local government, election information, post offices, history, etc. That is a valuable service!
If you want to search for a wiki on a subject, but don't want wikipedia, in google, just use the inurl:wiki command, and it will pull up some wikis--if the site has the sense to include "wiki" in it's url.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_did_Edgar_Allan_Poe_die
and after reading the "answer" you'll understand. Woe to the person who looks on a wiki for medical advice!
I read some of the library wikis, and I do like the idea of book reviews and opinions. However, if it's open to the public, a librarian needs to monitor the site to correct grammar and deal with inappropriate entries. Yes, one more task for the librarian. Since I've started this post, I've been interrupted four times. You get the picture.
I would really like to see a librarian access only community wiki. It would be nice for people to think of the library wiki as a place to start when they need info about local government, election information, post offices, history, etc. That is a valuable service!
If you want to search for a wiki on a subject, but don't want wikipedia, in google, just use the inurl:wiki command, and it will pull up some wikis--if the site has the sense to include "wiki" in it's url.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Lifelong Learning
After viewing the 7 1/2 habits, I would have to say the easiest for me would be viewing problems as challenges. One thing that has driven me batty since I was young(er!) is when I have observed someone facing a challenge they do not know how to approach, and after asking for assistance, they walk away (literally or figuratively) before the challenge has been resolved. They learn nothing. One thing I have experienced, is that challenges (i.e. problems) tend to repeat themselves. So, if you walk away from it, you are just as ill-equipped to deal with it the next time.
The most difficult of the habits would have to be using technology, although this is becoming easier. I do not have a computer at home, and really, really do not want one. I work with them all day, and the last thing I want to do is sit in front of a screen on my off time. If I absolutely, positively need to know the GDP of Bolivia in 1990, I can always call the library! Also, there's a logistical problem--our house is tiny and there is no nook or comfy space (and I mean NONE) to work for long periods of time. Plus, I'm cheap, but we won't go there... I do say it's becoming easier because I have bought an iPod, I now have an MP3 player, and of course, the ubiquitous cell phone. I prefer the portable electronics because I can be doing something else while listening to music or, my favorite, listening to NPR. So, I try to learn as much as possible on the job, and attending professional conferences. Good thing I'm fairly organized and efficient!
The most difficult of the habits would have to be using technology, although this is becoming easier. I do not have a computer at home, and really, really do not want one. I work with them all day, and the last thing I want to do is sit in front of a screen on my off time. If I absolutely, positively need to know the GDP of Bolivia in 1990, I can always call the library! Also, there's a logistical problem--our house is tiny and there is no nook or comfy space (and I mean NONE) to work for long periods of time. Plus, I'm cheap, but we won't go there... I do say it's becoming easier because I have bought an iPod, I now have an MP3 player, and of course, the ubiquitous cell phone. I prefer the portable electronics because I can be doing something else while listening to music or, my favorite, listening to NPR. So, I try to learn as much as possible on the job, and attending professional conferences. Good thing I'm fairly organized and efficient!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Image Generator
Hmm, I think people have waaay too much time on their hands--but it does bring out the comedian in everyone...
I was able to create my very own magazine cover...
LibraryThing
Actually, I discovered this site a long time ago. Since I work the children's desk a lot, I have read many, many kid's books but I can't keep them in my addled brain. This site is terrific because not only can you sort the list, you can add your own tags and reviews! That comes in very handy when, for example, you're asked for a realistic fiction with a dog as a main character--just search the tags! This is one of my favorite sites!
Here's a link to what I have read...
http://www.librarything.com/catalog/marksk
Here's a link to what I have read...
http://www.librarything.com/catalog/marksk
Flickr
Pretty nice site. I was able to create a slideshow of historic images regarding Elkridge. This would be a good tool for teachers--they could grab public domain images to use in the classroom. It's great that you can annotate the photos, but like Wikipedia, you have to beware of the source and any bias or misinformation. Also, you could save your personal images for archival purposes.
For the best pizza in the western world, go to Shakespeare's in Columbia, MO.
http://flickr.com/photos/azrael_malik/146869413/
Bloglines
Wow, this is a neat feature! Now I can REALLY waste time! :-)
It is pretty nice to have news stories pushed to you, but at the same time, I wonder if people have time to really read everything. After subscribing to some of their "top" sites, I realized how schizophrenic my interests are--from the Daily Show to BBC News. Hey, I'm an informed moron!!!
It is pretty nice to have news stories pushed to you, but at the same time, I wonder if people have time to really read everything. After subscribing to some of their "top" sites, I realized how schizophrenic my interests are--from the Daily Show to BBC News. Hey, I'm an informed moron!!!
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