Monday, May 26, 2008

Week 10: Mashups




I used Big Huge Labs to create a map, showing places I've travelled, which appears at the bottom of this blog, but I couldn't quite see how this could be classed as a Mashup, without actually attaching some photos to it and I could see no instructions for doing this. Hence my calendar (scene from Glen Rose, Isle of Arran, Scotland).
I was unable to corrected the spelling of "visited" on the map, as it was created in Big Huge Labs, which didn't seem to allow any edits


I guess we could use mashups on our web site, on example being perhaps a map showing the Branch Libraries, with photos of the libraries attached.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Week 9: Podcasts & Audio

I see podcasts as useful for catching up with missed programs, as we have done in the past with videos.
For our Library purposes, they could be used for inhouse training for remote library staff and also for promoting new material, although, for the latter, I don't really see why this would be any better than just providing text reviews. In lots of ways, I see it as just another instance of having to be "tuned in", instead of just opening one's eyes and reading!

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Week 8: Answer boards & social searching

Re "slamming the boards" - our library takes an active part in Libraries Australia ASKNOW, which is really another form of "slamming". I find it quite amazing that people feel the need to find their information in this manner, instead of actually putting the effort into searching for themselves. Even on ASKNOW, it is often obvious that some students are looking for an answer "on a plate" for their assignments.
On a more positive note ... yes, I guess there is a role here for the reviewing of items in our collection and the gathering of feedback on our services.