The Labs of Google

I looked around at Google Labs. I thought Google Trends was kind of fun - as it listed topics and their most recent activity. It looked like it would be helpful if you were trying to keep up with the latest news and celebrities! (I'm not, but it still was interesting.) I also looked around at the Experimental Search - Time line and Map Views. I liked it - looked up info on the Olympics appreciated the map and accompanying info regarding the various past Olympics. I like visual elements, and it was clear to read. The Google glossary looked useful too.

Google Docs and Zoho

I was impressed by both Google Docs and Zoho for simple word processing, spreadsheets, etc. It is cool that you can create documents and then others can preview and edit the documents. It seems like they are both good, easy to use, easy to save, free programs.

Learning 2.0

I have been enjoying learning many new things through Learning 2.0. I think the interactive aspects of some things could be helpful for work or outside activities/groups. I like the collective aspect of thinking together on line. It's not something I really thought about in regards to work, before. I think new technology is a very valuable and important tool. I think libraries have done a great job in the past (without technology) and will continue to do an even better job with technology. I think in the library setting, it can help you retrieve the most current information instantly, communicate easier when staff is on different schedules, and be informed as to what is available online, and be able to help our patrons.

Rollyo Search Roll and Google Custom Search Engine

Today I visited Rollyo and Google Custom search engines. I think they could be useful in weeding out unhelpful stuff that comes up in general web searches. I did prefer the Google site over the Rollyo. Part of that was I am just used to the Google format, and it did have less advertisements. I decided to make a customized search for library display.

Another day at the library

I morphed into a Simpsons character and actually got it published in my blog. It worked!

Wiki

I think the idea of a wiki could be a very good thing. I like that it is a collective community on various topics, books, etc. It is quick, current, and people are able to give their input instantly. I really liked the SJCPL Wiki subject guide. I loved how it was set up and how much information was available. I also thought the ALA Midwinter 2007 Wiki was great too. It had all kinds of pertinent information regarding the conference, but also had a place for questions and responses to the questions - responses that anyone could make. In the library I can see it as very valuable - when researching a subject, trying to find a "mystery" book with no title or author, giving staff current information about what is going on at the library, etc.

LibraryThing

I heard a lot of positive comments about this website. It looks like it could be very useful for a variety of reasons. It could be useful for cataloging as well as giving me all kinds of information regarding specific books and reviews. I will be revisiting this site. You can check it out at http://www.librarything.com.