Saturday, September 26, 2009

Test Drive #2 - Mashups

After watching the video of David Berlind from ZDNet explaining Mashups, I learned that they are the combination of different web applications to create a new one.

A practical example is adding a Google map to a library web site showing the location of the library, as SLQ have done. The idea of using a Google map mashup to show locations of all library branches or cemetaries for local history clients are great ideas and would make it easier for clients to access this information.

Explore: As suggested I searched http://www.suburbview.com/ for my postcode (4702) and found several different properties with links to other real estate sites containing further information about the individual properties.

After browsing the winners of the Mashup Awards found here: http://mashupawards.com/winners/, I discovered that many of the winners' mashups involved combining something with Twitter. The one I enjoyed the most was http://www.twonvert.com.
This practical site facilitates the conversion of your twitter message into SMS abbreviations, so you have more room to say more!

Adventure: I took the plunge and added a Google map to this blog. I chose a map that shows the locations my two local libraries. Enjoy!

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Test Drive #1 - Online Applications & Tools

Productivity software enables the simplification of the way collaboration on documents and presentations is achieved. Online in real time, saves time!

Explore: I found the Princeton Public Library's Slideshare Presentation enlightening. I had not realised how many different online applications were available!

Whilst at Uni last year these kind of applications would have been invaluable for group assignment work. We used a Uni-based web chat and wiki to collaborate, but we still needed to create a Powerpoint presentation as a group. The Slideshare http://www.slideshare.net/ application would have made the process easier than what happened, which was emailing drafts back and forward to each other.

I searched Slideshare for presentations on Library 2.0 and found "Libraries and Collaboration with Local Government: NSW Public Sphere 2009". The concept of a Librarian as a "lifecoach for the digital age" (Mark Pesce) is interesting. As a Librarian I find this to be true in practice as I often help clients with basic internet instruction such as setting up email accounts and even explaining the difference between an email address and web address.

The Web Conferencing applications sound great! As a library worker in a regional area, conferences are often held a large distance away and visiting one would incur significant cost. With Web Conferencing applications like WebEx - http://webex.com/ or Saba Centra - http://www.saba.com/products/centra/, online conferencing has made conferences cost effective and achievable.

Discover: I had a try at using Google Docs and found the word processor simple to use. Possible applications for this tool at my workplace could include collaborative efforts from staff on new brochures, policies or instructional materials.

Licence 2 Test Drive - PART B

Embarking on another journey in cyberspace, this librarian would like to thank SLQ for the opportunity to test drive again!

I am looking forward to participating and learning about many more of the wonderful new online applications making the world of libraries a better place!