Current Reports and Research for Teacher-Librarians
by Ester Rosefeld and Kim Tabor, Teacher-Librarian April 2007
I almost passed this article by because it was somewhat short and frankly I thought there would be little to summarize in this blog. I am so glad I read it. In a very simple format, without an excess of superlatives or personalized viewpoints this little article introduced me to 13 websites concerning various issues in libraries or education.
A few I will mark as favorites:
1. An online tutorial about online database resources. The episode teaches logging in, selecting the right database, conducting a search, and refining search parameters. I feel pretty competent however, I'm sure there are a few things I could polish and I plan to share this with colleagues and students.
2. A research report on student's critical thinking skills pointing out that many students lack the basic thinking skills required for academic success.
3. The ALA has a web page listing the top 10 most challenged books from 2000-2005. Interestingly, just as the Harry Potter series is releasing it's grand finale, it leads the pack in challenges.
4. Social networking is very popular. Over half of all teens use online social networks (most popular among older teen, particularly girls).
5. A fun library conference was held in Osage Beach, MO in April. I need to look for these in the future. After all, my job depends on it. Maybe there will be one in Aruba next year????
What I learned:
There is a ton of information at our disposal. It really is hard to wrap my arms around the reality of the information age. The most important thing I can do as a librarian is educate my students on how to discern the plethora of facts that are present. I found it interesting in reading a Horn Book review that even in books many things are not correct (IE - in a book about Estonia an alphabet was provided that was fictitious). Most astounding was the fact that overall the book received an acceptable rating despite the inaccuracies.
We are inundated with information. We will thrive by our ability to sort, evaluate and use it to our advantage.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
iPods Offer Gateways for New Learning Experiences
iPods Offer Gateways for New Learning Experiences
by Angel Ann Zukowski, Momentum (Washington, D.C.) 38 no1 102-3 F/Mr 2007
iPods are in the hands of nearly every pre-teen in America why not use them as an educational tool? This article provides a proactive view on new technology. Rather than scoff at the proliferate use of various communication devices, why not use them to our advantage?
While some educators view iPods as glorified tape recorders, let's not forget their incredible storage capability and ease of transport. When was the last time you put a tape recorder in your pocket? Let's embrace what the world is bringing to us!
What I learned:
The uses of iPods in education may be limited only by our imagination. IStory Creator sounds intriguing (software that allows a user to create a story and then lets other users manipulate how the story progresses), however when I went to the website mentioned I could not find anything on iStory. I did however find many interesting uses for an iPod (GoogleGet, mapping capabilities, movie showtimes, horoscopes...). Another educational use is "course-casting", an application where teachers provide classroom materials for home study or group work.
I think at the very least I need to learn how to use my daughter's iPod. Maybe it will intice me to buy my own, hopefully to enhance the learning experience of my students.
by Angel Ann Zukowski, Momentum (Washington, D.C.) 38 no1 102-3 F/Mr 2007
iPods are in the hands of nearly every pre-teen in America why not use them as an educational tool? This article provides a proactive view on new technology. Rather than scoff at the proliferate use of various communication devices, why not use them to our advantage?
While some educators view iPods as glorified tape recorders, let's not forget their incredible storage capability and ease of transport. When was the last time you put a tape recorder in your pocket? Let's embrace what the world is bringing to us!
What I learned:
The uses of iPods in education may be limited only by our imagination. IStory Creator sounds intriguing (software that allows a user to create a story and then lets other users manipulate how the story progresses), however when I went to the website mentioned I could not find anything on iStory. I did however find many interesting uses for an iPod (GoogleGet, mapping capabilities, movie showtimes, horoscopes...). Another educational use is "course-casting", an application where teachers provide classroom materials for home study or group work.
I think at the very least I need to learn how to use my daughter's iPod. Maybe it will intice me to buy my own, hopefully to enhance the learning experience of my students.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Techno-Klutz Meets the Blog
Techno-Klutz Meets the Blog
Ronda Y. Foust, Library Media Connection, January 2007
This bare bones commentary touches on the basic premises of blogging including the good, the bad, and how we can use them in schools. Most valuable was the list of blogs the author found interesting and the bibliography.
I enjoyed this as I felt the same way that Ronda did: curious but slightly ignorant. Luckily, there are several free sites (www.blogger.com, www.blogeasy.com and www.blogspot.com) that make creating a blog as easily as reading email.
What did I learn?
Ways to incorporate blogging into the curriculum are only as endless as your imagination. Don’t be afraid to be creative and take chances. Some ideas offered in the article include: students blogging book reviews – the best review receives a prize (i.e. $20 gift certificate); creative writing practice; dialogue catalysts; online note passing; outreach opportunities; and promoting literacy – custom to fit your community.
Check out these blogs for ideas:
http://lhsblog.edublogs.org/
http://younghoosier.blogspot.com
http://planetesme.blogspot.com/
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/blog/620000062.html
Remember- hunting for good blogs can be time consuming. Check LM_Net for idea.
Ronda Y. Foust, Library Media Connection, January 2007
This bare bones commentary touches on the basic premises of blogging including the good, the bad, and how we can use them in schools. Most valuable was the list of blogs the author found interesting and the bibliography.
I enjoyed this as I felt the same way that Ronda did: curious but slightly ignorant. Luckily, there are several free sites (www.blogger.com, www.blogeasy.com and www.blogspot.com) that make creating a blog as easily as reading email.
What did I learn?
Ways to incorporate blogging into the curriculum are only as endless as your imagination. Don’t be afraid to be creative and take chances. Some ideas offered in the article include: students blogging book reviews – the best review receives a prize (i.e. $20 gift certificate); creative writing practice; dialogue catalysts; online note passing; outreach opportunities; and promoting literacy – custom to fit your community.
Check out these blogs for ideas:
http://lhsblog.edublogs.org/
http://younghoosier.blogspot.com
http://planetesme.blogspot.com/
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/blog/620000062.html
Remember- hunting for good blogs can be time consuming. Check LM_Net for idea.
Checking Out Facebook.com: The Impact of a Digital Trend on Academic Libraries
Checking Out Facebook.com: The Impact of a Digital Trend on Academic Libraries
Lauri Charnigo and Paula Barnett-Ellis, Information Technology and Libraries, March 2007
A lengthy discussion of the rise of social networking web-sites and the casual attitude the academic world, specifically librarians, has adopted. Embarrassingly, the academic world has albeit ignored the possible significant uses of social networks while highlighting every ill affect (sexual predators, defamation of character) with the light of a million candles. Educators, including librarians, should be exploring the implications the communication style may have in regards to their students while identifying ways to evolve.
Libraries have often been thought of as the heart of a campus. I can recall a thousand times making plans to meet friends “at the library, 2nd floor”. If Facebook, as one of the largest online social networks, continues to grow how will the library fare in the social scene of campus? How can librarians be proactively involved to encourage administrators and colleagues to experiment with the opportunities afforded by on-line social networks?
A 2005 survey of 126 college level librarians revealed that:
12% find academic value in Facebook
19% had never heard of Facebook
3% had a library profile in Facebook
Most librarians held no disdain for Facebook unless it interrupted the study or academic work of another while a small percentage were delighted to use the vehicle to promote their services. Many librarians take the time to educate Facebook users about discreet use; advising students that anyone could access their postings so they should proceed with caution.
Much will likely change in the near future; how librarians are affected is simply up to us.
What I learned:
I enjoyed reading the study but was shocked with the lack of interest in on-line social networks from academic librarians as I view librarians as cutting edge information users. I need to keep in mind that the data is 2 years old. Sometimes people become such creatures of habit that they ignore what’s happening in the world.
Also, how long will it take until my spell check recognizes “Facebook” as one word? I don’t think Websters includes “Facebook” right now, but it will someday.
Lauri Charnigo and Paula Barnett-Ellis, Information Technology and Libraries, March 2007
A lengthy discussion of the rise of social networking web-sites and the casual attitude the academic world, specifically librarians, has adopted. Embarrassingly, the academic world has albeit ignored the possible significant uses of social networks while highlighting every ill affect (sexual predators, defamation of character) with the light of a million candles. Educators, including librarians, should be exploring the implications the communication style may have in regards to their students while identifying ways to evolve.
Libraries have often been thought of as the heart of a campus. I can recall a thousand times making plans to meet friends “at the library, 2nd floor”. If Facebook, as one of the largest online social networks, continues to grow how will the library fare in the social scene of campus? How can librarians be proactively involved to encourage administrators and colleagues to experiment with the opportunities afforded by on-line social networks?
A 2005 survey of 126 college level librarians revealed that:
12% find academic value in Facebook
19% had never heard of Facebook
3% had a library profile in Facebook
Most librarians held no disdain for Facebook unless it interrupted the study or academic work of another while a small percentage were delighted to use the vehicle to promote their services. Many librarians take the time to educate Facebook users about discreet use; advising students that anyone could access their postings so they should proceed with caution.
Much will likely change in the near future; how librarians are affected is simply up to us.
What I learned:
I enjoyed reading the study but was shocked with the lack of interest in on-line social networks from academic librarians as I view librarians as cutting edge information users. I need to keep in mind that the data is 2 years old. Sometimes people become such creatures of habit that they ignore what’s happening in the world.
Also, how long will it take until my spell check recognizes “Facebook” as one word? I don’t think Websters includes “Facebook” right now, but it will someday.
Technology and Change in Academic Libraries
Technology and Change in Academic Libraries
Tom Peters, Smart Libraries, May 2007, Volume XXVII, Number 5
An interesting discussion on the ten areas most likely to be affected in the future library. Most notably in technology were digitization and digital archiving along with multi-user virtual environments (Second Life). Librarians need to continue to grow with emerging technology. It was noted that traditionally libraries have been holders of the printed materials however, a look around today’s campus’ show empty seats in the library. Many students prefer to do their research via the internet or other sources that are not funded by the libraries budget creating a chasm between how libraries were once defined and how they are actually used today.
While distance learning will continue to grow, on-campus learning will not be replaced. With increasingly more information available to the general public we may see a social shift in the hierarchy between higher education and the general public. Sage advice was offered by one attendee at the ACRL National Conference in Baltimore in March ’07, “Don’t assume that people care about libraries. People care about streamlining the processes that support research and learning.”
What I learned:
I am fortunate to be studying a field that will be in a state of flux as the information age ripens. I will continue to experiment and master technology. I liken my technology education to healthy eating, it’s a lifestyle not a diet; everyday is a disciplined attack.
Tom Peters, Smart Libraries, May 2007, Volume XXVII, Number 5
An interesting discussion on the ten areas most likely to be affected in the future library. Most notably in technology were digitization and digital archiving along with multi-user virtual environments (Second Life). Librarians need to continue to grow with emerging technology. It was noted that traditionally libraries have been holders of the printed materials however, a look around today’s campus’ show empty seats in the library. Many students prefer to do their research via the internet or other sources that are not funded by the libraries budget creating a chasm between how libraries were once defined and how they are actually used today.
While distance learning will continue to grow, on-campus learning will not be replaced. With increasingly more information available to the general public we may see a social shift in the hierarchy between higher education and the general public. Sage advice was offered by one attendee at the ACRL National Conference in Baltimore in March ’07, “Don’t assume that people care about libraries. People care about streamlining the processes that support research and learning.”
What I learned:
I am fortunate to be studying a field that will be in a state of flux as the information age ripens. I will continue to experiment and master technology. I liken my technology education to healthy eating, it’s a lifestyle not a diet; everyday is a disciplined attack.
Librarians in Multi-User Virtual Environments
Librarians in Multi-User Virtual Environments
Smart Libraries, March 2007, Volume XXVII, Number 3
Sometimes I begin reading the articles I choose with a foggy feeling in my head. MUVE???? Second Life????? Avatars????? Where have I been the last 10 years?
This was a super article discussing the possibilities of libraries in virtual environments. What I loved was that the most interesting prospect (from the authors point of view) is the possibility to recreate literate conversation that used to exist in libraries and coffee houses in the 18th century – and I quote “not in the early 21st century – sorry, Starbucks”.
I need to quote from the text within the “Librarium and Philosopher’s Club” because it is so moving. One avatar wonders if the libraries in MUVE’s will focus on conversation or collections of information objects. Following please enjoy the text from that chat:
“The library has for a long time been a space where people congregate to create knowledge and to learn, to form social communities and bonds over shared conversations. The books, exhibits, and whatnot, inspire, supplement, and provide the genesis for these converstions…”
With the creation of third spaces and a generation more adept, perhaps, at texting than face to face conversations we need not forget to always massage the beauty of sharing ideas. As long as the mind is engaged does it matter if the thought exchange occurs between people within the same brick and mortar? I think the exchange may even be taken to a higher level with people from around the world with a variety of backgrounds.
What I learned:
I will open my heart and try and embrace technology – even when I find it quite bizarre. Most likely, there is something I can learn from it or someway that I can grow personally.
Smart Libraries, March 2007, Volume XXVII, Number 3
Sometimes I begin reading the articles I choose with a foggy feeling in my head. MUVE???? Second Life????? Avatars????? Where have I been the last 10 years?
This was a super article discussing the possibilities of libraries in virtual environments. What I loved was that the most interesting prospect (from the authors point of view) is the possibility to recreate literate conversation that used to exist in libraries and coffee houses in the 18th century – and I quote “not in the early 21st century – sorry, Starbucks”.
I need to quote from the text within the “Librarium and Philosopher’s Club” because it is so moving. One avatar wonders if the libraries in MUVE’s will focus on conversation or collections of information objects. Following please enjoy the text from that chat:
“The library has for a long time been a space where people congregate to create knowledge and to learn, to form social communities and bonds over shared conversations. The books, exhibits, and whatnot, inspire, supplement, and provide the genesis for these converstions…”
With the creation of third spaces and a generation more adept, perhaps, at texting than face to face conversations we need not forget to always massage the beauty of sharing ideas. As long as the mind is engaged does it matter if the thought exchange occurs between people within the same brick and mortar? I think the exchange may even be taken to a higher level with people from around the world with a variety of backgrounds.
What I learned:
I will open my heart and try and embrace technology – even when I find it quite bizarre. Most likely, there is something I can learn from it or someway that I can grow personally.
Keeping up with really simple syndication (rss)
Keeping up with really simple syndication (rss)
Teacher Librarian February 2007-07-11
This article provided a simple description of what RSS is, what it does, who uses it, as well as its applications; perfect for a technically challenged person such as myself.
What I learned:
I now know that RSS stands for really simple syndication (although it has had various meanings in the past – none of which I am familiar with). It does just that: syndicates information in a really simple way. Rather than periodically checking websites or blogs that you find interesting you may simply sign up for RSS so that you will be informed of new features immediately (or at a time you choose as convenient). Currently, RSS is the fasted way to have new information delivered to you. The most amazing thing to me is that you not only may choose the information you want delivered, the time you want it delivered, but also the method of delivery (i.e. computer, phone, iPod). Keeping up with constantly changing information has never been easier.
The technology applies to any type of site; business, news, or personal blog. Interestingly, the article mentions that some people may opt not to visit your site if you do not offer RSS – they may instead find another site willing to accommodate their desires.
The future of RSS is huge as it will soon become mainstream; an expectation of the tech savvy culture. RSS works as well on high speed connections as it does on slow dial-ups and there are many ways to create RSS feeds: some free, some requiring investment.
What do I intend to do with this new information:
First I’d like to set up an RSS feed with a teacher-librarian site if possible. Being new, I can’t get enough information on librarianship. Oddly enough, I find it fascinating. Maybe in the future my library’s website will offer an RSS feed.
Teacher Librarian February 2007-07-11
This article provided a simple description of what RSS is, what it does, who uses it, as well as its applications; perfect for a technically challenged person such as myself.
What I learned:
I now know that RSS stands for really simple syndication (although it has had various meanings in the past – none of which I am familiar with). It does just that: syndicates information in a really simple way. Rather than periodically checking websites or blogs that you find interesting you may simply sign up for RSS so that you will be informed of new features immediately (or at a time you choose as convenient). Currently, RSS is the fasted way to have new information delivered to you. The most amazing thing to me is that you not only may choose the information you want delivered, the time you want it delivered, but also the method of delivery (i.e. computer, phone, iPod). Keeping up with constantly changing information has never been easier.
The technology applies to any type of site; business, news, or personal blog. Interestingly, the article mentions that some people may opt not to visit your site if you do not offer RSS – they may instead find another site willing to accommodate their desires.
The future of RSS is huge as it will soon become mainstream; an expectation of the tech savvy culture. RSS works as well on high speed connections as it does on slow dial-ups and there are many ways to create RSS feeds: some free, some requiring investment.
What do I intend to do with this new information:
First I’d like to set up an RSS feed with a teacher-librarian site if possible. Being new, I can’t get enough information on librarianship. Oddly enough, I find it fascinating. Maybe in the future my library’s website will offer an RSS feed.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Click First, Ask Questions Later: Understanding Teen Online Behaviour
Click First, Ask Questions Later: Understanding Teen Online Behaviour, Jack Goodman - presented: Learning futures conf, Adelaide SA 9-10, March 2001
Prodigy. Remember Prodigy? What happened?
What happens when a business doesn’t listen to its customers – Prodigy happens– it dies. I think the TV industry calls it “jumping the shark”. That pivotal moment when you’ve gone too far; the public doesn’t want you anymore.
Prodigy was one of the first email providers in the US and did quite well until it started charging customers for emails if they used more than thirty a month. Can you imagine paying for email?
Change venues now… as a librarian, can you imagine ignoring teenagers? Teenagers are a core part of our business. If we want to serve our customers we must meet them where they are – through technology.
“Most adults – librarians included – use technology as a tool to get their work done, communicate more effectively, and solve problems. Kids look at technology differently. For the vast majority of Australian teens, technology is a first port of call for entertainment.”
The article dissects various web 2.0 technologies; social networking sites, YouTube, Instant messaging sites, VoIP, and Blogging. We must experience these technologies and be proficient with them in order to communicate with the growing demographic that has never not used them. We need to incorporate enewsletters, blogs for keen readers, podcasts, SMS alerts, and stay current with developing technologies to remain relevant to our users.
Prodigy. Remember Prodigy? What happened?
What happens when a business doesn’t listen to its customers – Prodigy happens– it dies. I think the TV industry calls it “jumping the shark”. That pivotal moment when you’ve gone too far; the public doesn’t want you anymore.
Prodigy was one of the first email providers in the US and did quite well until it started charging customers for emails if they used more than thirty a month. Can you imagine paying for email?
Change venues now… as a librarian, can you imagine ignoring teenagers? Teenagers are a core part of our business. If we want to serve our customers we must meet them where they are – through technology.
“Most adults – librarians included – use technology as a tool to get their work done, communicate more effectively, and solve problems. Kids look at technology differently. For the vast majority of Australian teens, technology is a first port of call for entertainment.”
The article dissects various web 2.0 technologies; social networking sites, YouTube, Instant messaging sites, VoIP, and Blogging. We must experience these technologies and be proficient with them in order to communicate with the growing demographic that has never not used them. We need to incorporate enewsletters, blogs for keen readers, podcasts, SMS alerts, and stay current with developing technologies to remain relevant to our users.
A Hipper Crowd of Shushers
A Hipper Crowd of Shushers, The New York Times, July 8, 2007
Luckily I stumbled across this little gem while looking for something else.
No need to summarize. It's a fun read discussing librarianship 2.0.
A Hipper Crowd of Shushers
I won't spoil the fun. Enjoy. Then check out librarian.net to see what else interests you.
Luckily I stumbled across this little gem while looking for something else.
No need to summarize. It's a fun read discussing librarianship 2.0.
A Hipper Crowd of Shushers
I won't spoil the fun. Enjoy. Then check out librarian.net to see what else interests you.
Monday, July 2, 2007
A Tie for Third Place: Teens need physical spaces as well as virtual places
A Tie for Third Place: Teens need physical spaces as well as virtual places, by Paula Brehm Heeger, School Library Journal, July 2006
The title of this article caught my eye. With all the talk about virtual space I was interested in how teens want to use the physical space available to them. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg has studied the “decline of third spaces, or public and informal gathering spaces, in his book The Great, good Place.” Third spaces are critical to the health of the overall community as they are considered a “neutral ground”, anyone is welcome regardless of stereotypes and they are safe from bullying. People are welcome to visit and be themselves while interacting with others. Evidently, third spaces are becoming a scarcity thus boosting the popularity of social network sites (MySpace, Face Book,…). Unfortunately, the social network sites are not always safe and they completely lack the human touch. The social equity provided in a third space is very important, especially during the teen years when kids seek acceptance.
What did I learn?
Not only do I need to treat teens with respect I must make sure every staff member does the same. The kids must feel free to express themselves in a safe environment with caring adults. I need to create a space that reflects their input and interests. One that is open, clean, inviting and comfortable. Although not mentioned I realize that I will need to make sure all kids feel free to use the space. Often a certain group “claims” a table/area. If I have reason to believe that people are not welcome I must intervene.
How will I use this information?
I intend to read more about teens need to have a third space. The terminology is new to me but I understand that kids are looking for a safe place to interact with peers. Community centers often don’t accommodate teens, sometimes there is not a home to go to, and sometimes kids actually want to have an adult around. Too often teens seek social interaction thru parties. I hope to offer an alternative. Maybe via book clubs, monthly donut parties, or perhaps something even less structured – just allowing the kids to hand out (without bothering others) ready to listen when needed. Finally, the article suggests, if I still am unsure about what to do I will ask a teen.
The title of this article caught my eye. With all the talk about virtual space I was interested in how teens want to use the physical space available to them. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg has studied the “decline of third spaces, or public and informal gathering spaces, in his book The Great, good Place.” Third spaces are critical to the health of the overall community as they are considered a “neutral ground”, anyone is welcome regardless of stereotypes and they are safe from bullying. People are welcome to visit and be themselves while interacting with others. Evidently, third spaces are becoming a scarcity thus boosting the popularity of social network sites (MySpace, Face Book,…). Unfortunately, the social network sites are not always safe and they completely lack the human touch. The social equity provided in a third space is very important, especially during the teen years when kids seek acceptance.
What did I learn?
Not only do I need to treat teens with respect I must make sure every staff member does the same. The kids must feel free to express themselves in a safe environment with caring adults. I need to create a space that reflects their input and interests. One that is open, clean, inviting and comfortable. Although not mentioned I realize that I will need to make sure all kids feel free to use the space. Often a certain group “claims” a table/area. If I have reason to believe that people are not welcome I must intervene.
How will I use this information?
I intend to read more about teens need to have a third space. The terminology is new to me but I understand that kids are looking for a safe place to interact with peers. Community centers often don’t accommodate teens, sometimes there is not a home to go to, and sometimes kids actually want to have an adult around. Too often teens seek social interaction thru parties. I hope to offer an alternative. Maybe via book clubs, monthly donut parties, or perhaps something even less structured – just allowing the kids to hand out (without bothering others) ready to listen when needed. Finally, the article suggests, if I still am unsure about what to do I will ask a teen.
Google is NOT the Net
Google is NOT the Net, Andrew Richard Albanese, Library Journal, September 15, 2006
This morning my daughter and I went to the Des Moines Central Library. Nearly every computer was in use on the second floor. Probably fifty computers were occupied by people of all ages surely for many various reasons. Curiously, it struck me that only two people were browsing the stacks, my daughter and me. Perhaps if I hadn’t just finished reading Google is Not the Net I may not have perceived the patrons use as anything worthy of note. However, the article reviewed the industries looming question: will commercial search engines replace the need for librarians? Thankfully, it also discussed the libraries opportunities associated with technology and the need to be willing to adapt.
I found this article interesting after spending a year in a high school library watching how teens surf the net, often spending large amounts of time with little gain. Too often I see that no systematic approach is used to gather or evaluate information. Amazingly, “the world now creates no less than five exabytes of information each year, enough to replicate the Library of Congress’s entire print collection 37,000 times over” (pg.1). While I had an understanding of the uneducated use of the web I had no idea the enormity of the beast. Herein lays our opportunity. We must be prepared to educate users so that they can become successful users of the Internet. Connecting with our users on their ground, not where we feel comfortable but where we can be of use. More importantly, we must recognize that our profession is alive, not static, as the web evolve so must we. In fact, with the influx of information librarians may be more vital than ever before.
MySpace, NetFlix and Amazon provide trendy, user-friendly sites that accommodate the needs of their clients while taking advantage of networking advances. For example, NetFlix keeps a copy of the movies I want to see in order of when I want to see them (of course I have the ability to make changes as I please). The more feedback I give to NetFlix, the better suited its recommendations I receive are. It’s a copacetic relationship. How does the card catalogue compete with customer service like that? Obviously there are legal and privacy considerations as well as a burden of information collection yet can libraries continue to compete with bare bones service?
I love imaging the library of the future. Having been born in the sixties I have already seen much progress in libraries. What will be next? Change is inevitable. “You can’t fight it, so you shouldn’t. The web is about information. So are we. It’s about community. So are we.” (Joe Janes, University of Washington).
What did I learn?
As a librarian I must be well versed in technology and emerging advances that connect my learners to what they seek. This will be a challenge as a new librarian but hopefully I will catch up soon (baptism by fire) and new things won’t seem so overwhelming. I realize that I must continually seek opportunities that will increase my comfort level with the Internet/technology. It would be quite easy to immerse myself in worthwhile pursuits while letting technology slip to the side; easy but not acceptable. I am excited because currently my family thinks of me as a technology dinosaur (while I struggle with this Blog my husband jokingly said “welcome to the 90’s”) but that is changing. I may have skipped the last ten years of high tech advances but I won’t let that happen again.
This morning my daughter and I went to the Des Moines Central Library. Nearly every computer was in use on the second floor. Probably fifty computers were occupied by people of all ages surely for many various reasons. Curiously, it struck me that only two people were browsing the stacks, my daughter and me. Perhaps if I hadn’t just finished reading Google is Not the Net I may not have perceived the patrons use as anything worthy of note. However, the article reviewed the industries looming question: will commercial search engines replace the need for librarians? Thankfully, it also discussed the libraries opportunities associated with technology and the need to be willing to adapt.
I found this article interesting after spending a year in a high school library watching how teens surf the net, often spending large amounts of time with little gain. Too often I see that no systematic approach is used to gather or evaluate information. Amazingly, “the world now creates no less than five exabytes of information each year, enough to replicate the Library of Congress’s entire print collection 37,000 times over” (pg.1). While I had an understanding of the uneducated use of the web I had no idea the enormity of the beast. Herein lays our opportunity. We must be prepared to educate users so that they can become successful users of the Internet. Connecting with our users on their ground, not where we feel comfortable but where we can be of use. More importantly, we must recognize that our profession is alive, not static, as the web evolve so must we. In fact, with the influx of information librarians may be more vital than ever before.
MySpace, NetFlix and Amazon provide trendy, user-friendly sites that accommodate the needs of their clients while taking advantage of networking advances. For example, NetFlix keeps a copy of the movies I want to see in order of when I want to see them (of course I have the ability to make changes as I please). The more feedback I give to NetFlix, the better suited its recommendations I receive are. It’s a copacetic relationship. How does the card catalogue compete with customer service like that? Obviously there are legal and privacy considerations as well as a burden of information collection yet can libraries continue to compete with bare bones service?
I love imaging the library of the future. Having been born in the sixties I have already seen much progress in libraries. What will be next? Change is inevitable. “You can’t fight it, so you shouldn’t. The web is about information. So are we. It’s about community. So are we.” (Joe Janes, University of Washington).
What did I learn?
As a librarian I must be well versed in technology and emerging advances that connect my learners to what they seek. This will be a challenge as a new librarian but hopefully I will catch up soon (baptism by fire) and new things won’t seem so overwhelming. I realize that I must continually seek opportunities that will increase my comfort level with the Internet/technology. It would be quite easy to immerse myself in worthwhile pursuits while letting technology slip to the side; easy but not acceptable. I am excited because currently my family thinks of me as a technology dinosaur (while I struggle with this Blog my husband jokingly said “welcome to the 90’s”) but that is changing. I may have skipped the last ten years of high tech advances but I won’t let that happen again.
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