NoSpace for Me, Got a Facebook

Instead of MySpace, I signed up for a Facebook account. It was an easy and quick process. If you want to add more things to the page, it would take more time. I created a simple page and would probably add more features later. MySpace is popular with so many different people because it gives them an opportunity to put themselves out there. It gives them a forum to gather, meet new people and express their ideas.

MySpace or NoSpace for VBPL?

VBPL should use social networking websites to promote itself as many other institutions do. It's a great tool to meet other people from all over the country and the world. Moreover, it could also be used to connect with old friends and/or colleagues.

VBPL RA

The Reader's Advisory wiki page was easy to edit and post comments. Others can certainly use wikis for not only book picks but can also be for gathering ideas together.

Wikis

Wiki is a great new tool or feature for computer users. A majority of users don't know how html and this provides them with a way to participate in making a website. You can input information easily and edit them if needed. I think that the library can certainly use Wikis to enhance their services. For example, it could be used to have patrons write reviews of books and staff recommendations.

IM in VBPL

I tried the VBPL IM Service and it was a success. It was similar to the service that one would receive during an in-person reference interview. The only difference is that there was no face-to-face interaction and everything was in text (which could be kept in the records; history, so watch what you type in!). It's great that we have incorporated this feature into our delivery of service in the library.

IM and Libraries

Libraries should use Instant Messaging as another form of communication with its patrons. It gives them another way of contacting the library live. It is quite different from doing phone interviews or in-person interviews because it seems less personal. We must utilize this other form of communication as our patrons are increasingly becoming more familiar with computers.

More Feeds

Topix.net was the easiest one and more organized than the rest. The most confusing was syndic8.com because it isn't as neatly organized; it looks a little tacky. I didn't find anything particulary interesting for me. I would more likely not use these RSS finders because I prefer going directly to the web site and subscribe to its RSS service.