Bec's Bit of the Net

Technolust

2008-09-08T13:47:00.009+10:00

Mum: Jeremy where have you been today?

Jeremy: What!

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Jeremy: Mom I synced my calander with yours, I posted my plans on Facebook and I texted you 3 times!

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Mum: Well. Okay. Yeah. Oh.

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Mum: Jeremy & I had better communication before we had so many ways to communicate

I think it speaks for itself :^ )

Implementing Web 2.0 into Libraries

2008-09-08T12:26:00.006+10:00

Implementing Web 2.0 technologies into a library’s existing services, or making their library, Library 2.0, can be a daunting prospect for many librarians who have never had any experience with these technologies. However, Kate Watson and Chelsea Harper have created some tips that may help librarians who are considering employing Web 2.0 technologies.

Watson and Harper emphasis that the first step in the implementation process of Web 2.0 technologies is to become a ‘Librarian 2.0’ or a librarian who is the driving force behind the implementation because they “understand the power of Web 2.0 opportunities to communicate with clients and facilitate social management of information” (Watson & Haper, 2006). However, because Web 2.0 technologies are so easy and quick to create, Watson and Harper advise caution before their implementation and suggest that libraries carry out planning and evaluation before becoming ‘Library 2.0’.

To aid librarians in the planning phase Watson and Harper have devised the following 6 tips.

1. Manage your communication
Once a library establishes that Web 2.0 technology will benefit them and which technologies they will implement, a strategic plan needs to be put into place to help manage these services. Watson and Harper quote Nancy Flynn’s advice on managing Web 2.0 technologies:
· Be clear what the objective is
· Decide in and clearly state the mission
· Develop a strategic management plan, including policies regarding use and content
· Make all rules and policies publicly available
· Use written rules and policy to control content, maximize compliance and reduce liabilities
· Instead of making it the responsibility of one person, create a management team
· Educate employees on all policies and guidelines

2. Control ‘technolust’
After establishing which technologies will help meet the needs, goal and mission of the library, the librarian should not be tempted to implement others which do not.. Every library is different as are the needs of its community. Watson and Harper suggest that any technologies should be tested internally to see if they are appropriate. Users should not be bombarded with the new services, just because other libraries have them.

3. Have an agreed upon, honest library voice
Honesty within Web 2.0 applications is as important as the honesty shown to users who come into the physical library. Users will trust the library and its resources, and continue to use its services if they are reliable. Websites providing false information will quickly loss users due to the community nature of Web 2.0.

4. Update Often
One of the characteristics of Web 2.0 technologies is the “emphasis on currency” (Watson & Harper, 2006). Michal Casey emphasizes this in his Library 2.0 Model, stating that a library is not Library 2.0 until they have achieved a service which among other things has a “plan to change and up date services, based on a regularly scheduled evaluation plan” (Casey & Savastinuk, 2006). Web 2.0 applications left to become out of date and irrelevant will not get used. Therefore a plan must be implemented from the beginning to update the library’s Web 2.0 services.

5. Enable comments, where appropriate and respond
The ability to comment on a web entry can “open important lines of communication between staff and patrons” (Watson & Harper, 2006). It is also on of the unique components of Web 2.0 applications. To keep these lines of communication open, librarians need to be prepared to respond to comments, take constructive criticism or remove inappropriate comments.

6. Use RSS feeds or other promotional avenues
A library needs to market their services. If the service is useful word will be spread, but the library needs to consider using promotional technologies within their Web 2.0 applications. RSS feeds can be used for this purpose as well as letting users know when the library has updated its website.

Libraries can no longer ignore Web 2.0 technologies; however they also should not rush into its implementation as there are many pitfalls. Subsequently a library needs to strategically plan the implementation and use of Web 2.0 technologies as part of their services.

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Bibliography

Casey, Michael E. & Savastinuk, Laura C. (2006). Library 2.0: service for the next generation library. Retrieved 1 August from the LibraryJournal.com Website: http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6365200.html?q=Library+2.0

Watson, Kate & Harper, Chelsea. (2006). Using blogs and wikis to communicate with library clients. Retrieved 1 August 2008, from the Australian Library and Information Association Website: http://www.alia.org.au/publishing/incite/2006/12/print.html?ID=138

Emerging Web 2.0 Technologies

2008-09-08T10:55:00.000+10:00

In the last few years, with the advent of Web 2.0, many emerging Web 2.0 technologies have flooded the Internet. Many of these technologies can and have been used in libraries to connect with users in a more ‘user friendly’ way.

Blogs
Noted for being one of the founding web technologies that defined Web 2.0, blogs are websites, known as a form of online journal. “The word blog is short for web log”, which “refers to a particular category of web site where the content is presented in a continuing sequence of dated entries” (Kajewski, 2007). The web company Blogger have lead the way in this Web 2.0 technology by creating an easy way for anyone, with access to the internet, to create their own webpage in the form of a Blog. The creators of Blogger have taken the hard work of writing the HTML out of web site creation by allowing the user to choose a template to create their own webpage. After the user has created their profile they can add content, in the form of pictures, links to other websites or blogs, videos, and written entries, whenever they want. Libraries can use blogs in one of four ways according to Kajewski; “as an information service, as a library service, as feedback tool, and as a professional awareness service” (2007). An example of a blog being used as an information and library service, is Mosman Library’s blog, in which they present news of new developments and collections, such as their new pottery display, as well as announcements and advertisements of things happening in the community. An example of a blog used for professional development is the Libraries Interact blog, a place for librarians to network with each other, post job advertisements, notifications of events, interesting websites and general reflections.

Wikis
Also known to be in the first few web technologies, which defined Web 2.0, wikis’ are web pages that can be added to and changed by anyone with access to the internet. The word wiki originated “from the Hawaiian term for quick” and refers to “an open shared space for collaborative content contribution and editing…unlike protected web pages… anyone with a web browser can insert new pages, include new content to existing pages, or delete existing information” (Kajewski, 2007). The most well known wiki is the online encyclopaedia ‘Wikipedia’. Wikis can be used for the benefit of library users as well as librarian’s professional development. An example of a wiki used as a tool to help library users is The National Library of Australia’s Library Lab wiki which aims to “let friends and colleagues know what we (the National Library) are doing, to invite comments, questions and feedback and to provide a space for discussion and collaboration” (Cathro, 2008). An example of wikis used for the professional development of librarians is the ‘Library Success: A Best Practice Wiki’ which the creator of the site Meredith Farkas sees as “a one-stop-shop for great ideas and information for all types of librarians” (Kajewski, 2007).

RSS feeds
RSS, an acronym for really simple syndication or rich site summery, is an XML format which allows frequent users of a web site, which is updated regularly, such as a blog, or library catalogue, the ability to receive the updated content in the form of an email. “In simple terms, RSS is used for the specific purpose of conveying information that a web site or blog has been updated and allows quick scanning of the latest headlines from hundreds of web sites” (Kajewski, 2007). RSS can also be used as a means of grouping web content in a way that allows quick redistribution, a service library’s can utilise so library users can be kept up to date on any changes in the library without having to visit the library’s website (Kajewski, 2007). Another use for RSS feeds is within the library’s catalogue where users are informed anytime a new item is entered. The Library of Congress, has several RSS feeds connected to various web pages of its website.

Podcasts and Vodcasts
Podcasting is the technology that allows for distributing audio or audio/video (Vocasts) programs automatically over the Internet through a ‘publish and subscribe’ mode” using an RSS feed, which can be listened to or viewed directly from the website or subscribed to and downloaded on another device (Houghton- Jan, 2008). Podcasts only distribute audio content, while Vodcasts includes a video component as well as the audio. These technologies can be used by libraries to train users, to record book reviews, create a virtual library tour, or record presentations or lectures. An example of a library using this technology to engage teenage patrons is The Cheshire Public Library ‘s podcast, which is a “teen driven cultural magazine featuring teen writers, musician, reviewers, commentators and more” (Kajewski, 2007).

There are many other Web 2.0 technologies, such as Instant messaging- the ability for two or more users to communicate online “using typed text via computers in real time” (Kajewski, 2007), used by many libraries as an instant reference service-, web conferencing- “used to convene group meetings or live presentations via the internet, and short message services (SMS)- a message sent to a mobile communication device such a mobile phone, used by libraries to send overdue notices or tell users of up coming events.

Libraries need to be aware of these technologies and the impact they can have on the services they supply and could supply to their current and potential user communities.

Bibliography
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Cathro, Warwick. (2008). Library Labs. Retrieved 27 August, 2008, from the National Australian Library Labs Website: https://wiki.nla.gov.au/display/LABS/Home

Houghton-Jan, Sarah. (2008). SMCLl Guide to Podacsting. Retrieved from the State Library of Queensland OPAL Training Website: http://www.slq.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/80924/SLQ_-_Library_2.0_Podcasting,_vodcasting_and_mp3s_-_Part_3.pdf

Kajewski, Mary Ann. (2007). Emerging technologies changing our service delivery models. The Electronic Library, 25 (4). P. 420- 429.

Wonderful New Product

2008-09-08T09:58:00.002+10:00

I was sent this via an email. If anyone knows the author I would like to know so I can give them credit for a well written joke. I think this is fantastic in light of the technology revolutions taking most of the world by storm :^ )

Wonderful New Product

Announcing the new Built- in Orderly Organised Knowledge device, otherwise know as the BOOK.

It’s a revolutionary breakthrough in technology: no wires, no electric circuits, no batteries, nothing to be connected or switched on. It’s so easy to use even a child can operate it. Just lift its ever. Compact and portable, it can be used anywhere- even sitting in an armchair by the fire- yet it is powerful enough to hold as much information as a CD- ROM disk.

Here’s how it works: each BOOK is constructed of sequentially numbered sheets of paper (recyclable), each capable of holding thousands of bits of information. These pages are lock together with a custom- fit device call a binder which keeps the sheets in their correct sequence. By using both sides of each sheet, manufacturers are able to cut costs in half.

Each sheet is scanned optically, registering information directly into your brain. A flick of the finger takes you to the next sheet. The BOOK may be taken up at any time and used by merely opening it. The “Browse” feature allows you to move instantly any sheet and move forwards or backward as you wish. Most come with an “index” feature, which pinpoints the exact location of any selected information for instant retrieval.

An optional “BOOKmark” accessory allows you to open the BOOK to the exact place you left it the previous session- even if the BOOK has been closed. BOOKmarks fit universal desing standards: thus a single BOOKmark can be used in BOOKs by various manufacturers.

Portable, durable and affordable, the BOOK is the entertainment wave of the future, and many new titles are expected soon, due to the surge in popularity of its programming tool, the Portable Erasable- Nib Cryptic Intercommunication Language stylus (PENCIL).

Library 2.0

2008-09-07T22:29:00.003+10:00

Gone are the days when the library was defined by its building and the physical resources it held. As Simon Midgey states, “Web 2.0…has given us Facebook and Bebo- and its student adherents have together thrown down a tough challenge to today’s libraries" (Midgley, n.a.).

Michael Casey first used the term Library 2.0 in his ‘blog‘ to describe how Web 2.0 technologies and principles might affect libraries. (Watson & Harper, 2006). Watson and Harper define Library 2.0 as ‘more then using blogs and wikis for library services, (by) provid(ing) a new model of contemporary library service using converging technologies’ (2006).

However, according to Casey and Savastinuk, Library 2.0 is more then this, “the heart of library 2.0 is user- centred change… (it) encourages constant and purposeful change, inviting user participation and creation of both the physical and the virtual services they want, supported by consistently evaluating services. It also attempts to reach new users and better serve current ones through improved customer- driven offerings” (Casey & Savastinuk, 2006).

The authors Michael E. Casey and Laura C. Savastinuk, described in their article “Library 2.0: Service for the next generation” expand this interpretation by presenting a model which describes the Library 2.0 trend now being adopted by many libraries. They see that the individual components of their model when implemented by itself, is a step towards better library services, however library 2.0 is only reached when all the elements are combined and applied together. Their model basically consists of a framework of interactive services, which encourage users input and feed back, and a plan to change and up date services, based on a regularly scheduled evaluation plan. This model seeks to increase access to customer’s “knowledge to supplement and improve library services” (Casey & Savastinuk, 2006)

Technology is not necessarily a component of Library 2.0, however it does play a large role in meeting the needs of library users, especially Web 2.0 technologies. Casey & Savastinuk suggest that the increase in technologies ‘gives libraries the ability to offer improved, customer- driven service opportunities” (2006), and reach potential patrons. As good as technology is however, the library needs to consider patrons who are uncomfortable using technology or have no access to the latest technologies, thus Casey & Savastinuk’s model incorporates a combination of physical and virtual services. If technology is limited libraries can implement new services or improve on old services based on Casey & Savastinuk’s model. For example a library could introduce customer surveys as a way of collecting data on what library customers want from their libraries; these could reach beyond the current library customers to the community in which the library serves to see what non-customers are wanting from their library. Libraries with limited technology and budgets can start implementing Library 2.0 by utilising available free software.

Library 2.0 gives customers a chance to participate with the services offered by the library, whether this be through library blogs, a library Facebook profile, a library wiki, an interactive OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue) or holding book talks in the library in which customers can talk about books they enjoy or have found useful. This also creates an atmosphere in which the user’s knowledge is used to help other customers with their inquiries. However these services need to be kept up to date not just implemented and left to become irrelevant.

Customers, potential customers and staff are also able to evaluate the services, both old and new, offered by the library in the Library 2.0 model. This can take the form of customer surveys, community surveys, both online and physical, or a place in the library’s webpage, wiki, or blog in which customers can leave comments and feedback to name just two of many. This also helps the library keep its services up to date, as customers will quickly say if the service is not meeting their needs, is irrelevant, or is too hard to use.

So, after all this, what makes a library service a Library 2.0 service? “Any service, physical or virtual, that successfully reaches users, is evaluated frequently, and makes use of customer input is a Library 2.0 service” (C asey & Savastinuk, 2006).

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Bibliography

Casey, Michael E.& Savastinuk, Laura C. (2006). Library 2.0: service for the next generation library. Retrieved 1 August from the LibraryJournal.com Website: http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6365200.html?q=Library+2.0

Midgley, Simon (n.a.). Quite revolution. Retrieved 30 August 2008, from the EducationGuardia.co.uk Website: http://education.guardian.co.uk/librariesunleashed/story/0,,2274841,00.html

Watson, Kate & Harper, Chelsea. (2006). Using blogs and wikis to communicate with library clients. Retrieved 1 August 2008, from the Australian Library and Information Association Website: http://www.alia.org.au/publishing/incite/2006/12/print.html?ID=138

Web 2.0

2008-09-07T21:54:00.002+10:00

The internet has, in recent years been taken to another level of interactivity. No longer is the internet a place to just gather information which someone else who has the skills to write HTML has provided. Nor is the internet now only used to email or buy online. The recent phenomenon of ‘Web 2.0’ has changed the internet into an interactive space for its users.

The term Web 2.0, was first used at a 2004 conference between Tim O’Reilly and MediaLive, in a brainstorming session to differentiate companies which had survived the dot.com crash (A stock market crash, due to increased interest rates and a runaway economy, which resulted in many Internet companies creasing trading and closing). O’Reilly and Dale Dougherty “noted that far from having ‘crashed’, the web was more important then ever, with exciting new applications and sites popping up with surprising regularity” (O’Reilly, 2005)

It was shown during this session that all Web 2.0 websites consisted of similar characteristics. This included the ability for users to interact with the website through posting information to the website, tagging the website, leaving comments about the information, pictures, videos etc on the website, reviewing the website or creating links between websites on one webpage.
The common link between these websites, which was the ability to “let people collaborate and share information in previously unavailable ways” (Pearce, 2006), created the “Web 2.0” phenomenon.

The top websites, which changed the landscape of the internet, the Observer found in 2006, were: Amazon, Blogger, eBay, Google and Wikipedia. (Pearce, 2006). Websites like FaceBook and MySpace have also contributed to the Web 2.0 phenomena; however there are now many companies, which are contributing to the trend.

Flickr, a photo management service is another example of Web 2.0. “What differentiates Flickr from other photo management services is its focus on enabling new ways of organising photos through the assignment of descriptive metadata and tags. Features such as the most interesting photos for a given tag use an unpublished algorithm based on things like the number of people who have tagged, commented on or viewed a photo or marked it as a personal favourite” (Pearce, 2006). The National Library of Australia’s PictureAustralia has utilised this service by creating Flickr spaces in which users can upload their images and add them to one of the PictureAustralia groups, with the aim of increasing the amount of contemporary images in PictureAustralia and engage with new audiences (Pearce, 2006).

Blogger, a web company, which gave us the online journal style web pages called blogs set itself apart from previous webpage design websites, and classified itself as ‘Web 2.0’, because of its simplicity, the inbuilt ability for anyone to comment on anyone else’s blog entries, its ability to bring together the collective intelligence of the world, and its ability to show what the general population decide as important (O’Reilly, 2005). Many libraries have started to use blogs as part of the services they offer their clients. The Libraries Interact, Aussie Library Blogs, blog site, lists many Australian library blog sites.

Wikipedia, an online encyclopaedia, is another example of ‘Web 2.0’. It differs from other online encyclopaedias like ‘Britannica Online’ because it “invites users to freely edit its content” (Pearce, 2006), which has helped to classify Wikipedia as an ‘open data’ application (an application which “allows users to take control of how data is displayed on their computer” (O’ Reilly, 2005). In other words any web user can add or change the content of, a Wikipedia entry. The concept behind Wikipedia has been utilized by many other companies who create ‘wiki- style’ content on their websites. The National Library of Australia is taking advantage of this wiki- style technology by introducing the Dancing Australia’s Take Part project. The aim of the project is to be “inclusive by supporting the creation of entries by users”, by allowing users to register and contribute to the website by adding new pages, images, documents, or comments or by editing any existing page (Pearce, 2006)

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Bibliography

Crashes: the Dotcom Crash. Retrieved, 1 September 2008, from the Investopedia Website: http://www.investopedia.com/features/crashes/crashes8.asp

Pearce, Judith. (2006). User collaboration in websites. Retrieved, 1 August 2008, from the National Library of Australia Website: http://www.nla.gov.au/nla/staffpaper/2006/jpearce1.html

O’Reilly, Tim (2005). What is Web 2.0: Design patterns and Business Models for the Next Generation of Software. Retrieved 20 August 2008, from the O’Reilly Website: http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/a/oreilly/tim/news/2005/09/30/what-is-web-20.html

2008-08-31T15:02:00.000+10:00

Wow. I have finally joined the craze and reserved my own piece of the Internet, albeit for an assignment so I can join those with Masters in the illustrious Library and Information profession, of which I love being a part of and have been a part of now for the past 6 years.