Importance of 23 Things

Technology is changing the way libraries serve their customers. By providing a program such as 23 Things, library staff were introduced to the many different formats that our customers may inquire about. Web 2.0 provided lots of helpful resources and sites that will be beneficial to our customers.The learn-at-your-own pace structure worked for most staff, and a lot of teamwork with co-workers made it fun. Thanks again for the opportunity to learn!!!

Week 9 - Thing 23

What a "journey" we have taken this summer!!! I said in the beginning that I love to learn, and learn I did. I especially liked being able to learn at my own pace. My favorite exercises were creating the blog, learning about RSS feeds, podcasts, and of course YouTube. My technology vocabulary has vastly improved since I started the program. I enjoyed the format of the program ( weekly exercises) alhough I would suggest doing a similar project at a less hectic time for library staff. Although I completed the entire course, I'm not sure I did justice to all areas because of time contraints. And yes, I would definitely sign up for another course like this. Continual learning should be a part of everybody's life. Thanks for giving everyone the opportunity to complete this program!!

Week 9 - Thing 22

I am familiar with OverDrive since CCPL has it available for customers. While I often check out audio books to listen to while driving, I never thought to use ebooks. I was unaware that you could burn them to a CD, might be worth trying. I attented the presentation presented by Overdrive while at ALA in June. I created an account and have placed a book on hold. I will see how I like it.

Week 9 - Thing 21

I looked at some of the directories to find podcasts, espcecially the Merlin learning link, and added it to my bloglines account. It's interesting to see how libraries are using podcasts for things like booktalks, storytimes, and on their websites. The use of podcasts for training purposes with in libraries is a given. We have used them continually as we completed 23 Things.

Week 9 - Thing 20

I enjoyed looking around the YouTube site. I watched one that had a tour of the Seattle Public Library. Very interesting.Having gotten another chocolate lab for a Christmas present from my kids, I especially liked looking at all the different puppy videos. Hope you enjoy it also.

Week 8 - Thing 19

Exploring the "short list" of Web 2.0 winners was interesting. Some of the sites we have visited throughout "23 Things" were first place winners, such as Flickr and Rollyo. I intend to use farecast.com to plan my next vacation.

Week 8 - Thing 18

I created an account in ZOHO Writer and and explored some of the other sites. I can see how these online productivity tools will be beneficial to many different segments of the population such as small businesses and college students.I'm trying to publish this to my blog. Let's hope this works!!!!

Week 7 Thing 17

I explored the Maryland Libraries Sandbox site, created an account, and added my blog to the Favorites list. I enjoyed looking around at the different wiki pages.

Week 7 - Thing 16

I'm familiar with Wiki's since our library system has been using them for several years. We use it for team reports, the Pipeline, and job descriptions. I like using Wikipedia, although you have to be careful since anyone can edit it. Libraries can use wikis for book clubs, as a community information wiki or to promote a specific event.

Week 6 Thing 15

After watching the YouTube video by Michael Wesch and reading "Away from icebergs", I have a better understanding of what Library 2.0 is all about. There have been so many changes in libraries in the last ten years, but I'm sure it doesn't compare with what it on the horizon.

Week 6 - Thing 14

I explored Technorati, which is a search tool for blogs. I did the different searches (favorite blogs, posts, and tags) and got different results for each. Since I'm new to blogging, I'm not sure how much I would use this site. Hopefully, when time allows, I will come back to explore this site further.

Week 6 - Thing 13

After viewing the podcast and exploring PLCMCL account, I can see the possibilities for Del.icio.us. It would be great for students doing research or anyone wanting to have access to their bookmarks from any computer

Week 5 - Thing 12

I played around with Rollyo and created an account. I'm not sure I will ever use it again although I can see where some people would find it interesting. Just didn't do anything for me.

Week 5 - Thing 11

I explored Library Thing, created an account, and so far have add 8 books to my library. This would be a great way to keep track of all the books you read. http://www.librarything.com/catalog.php?view=barbb&shelf=shelf

Week 5 - Thing 10

I used Yahoo Avatar http://uk.avatars.yahoo.com/ to create my avatar. She is all ready for the 4th of July and so am I.

Week 4 - Thing 9

I previously used the Merlin Website when I was doing the Thomspon Knowledge Netg classes. It has a lot of useful information. I also explored the different search tools for this exercise to find RSS feeds. I liked Feedster and Topox.net

Week 4 - Thing 8 RSS Feeds

I've set up my blogline account and added at least 10 feeds. I am a news person at heart and love to read sites such as CNN and MSNBC. I also added feeds from Dictionary.com, Library Journal, and the Shifted Librarian. Will reserve judgement on whether I like this format better than going to each site. Stay tuned!!!!

Week 3 - Thing 7

I recently purchased a digital camera. I like being able to upload pictures and send to family or friends.

Week 3 - Thing 6

I played around with mashups and third party sites. I especially liked the Flickr Color Pickr and looking at different Librarian Trading Cards.

Week 3 - Thing 5

Kaanapali Beach sunset
Originally uploaded by bglodosky

After a lot of exploring, I managed to upload a photo from Flickr. A beautiful sunset in Kaanapali, Hawaii. I've seen the real thing and they are beautiful. Am I still having fun? Not sure.!!!

Week 2 - Thing 4

I registered by blog and also downloaded my tracking sheet. One of my co-workers who is well ahead of me in the project, was kind enough to help me understand exactly how to complete the log. Thanks Stella.

Week 2 - Thing 3

I created my blog and had "fun" doing it. That's important. It really wasn't hard, you just needed to experiment with the different templates, colors, etc.

When I'm finished my learning adventure, I think I will venture down to the beach!!!

7 1/2 Habits of Lifelong Learning

Week One - Thing #2

The habit that is easiest for me is accepting responsibility for my own learning. Continual learning should be a part of everybody's life, no matter your age. The only barrier is finding the time to do all the things I want to.

The hardest habit( which actually should be the easiest) is play. I never seem to find the time to play, but I am working on it.

Week One Thing #1

I'm off and running on this learning activity.