# 18 Web-based Apps

"What is the use of repeating all that stuff, if you don't explain it as you go on?"

I thought I had it sorted. I created an account with Zoho, created a document and then tried to upload a photo- that didn't happen. Tried again with the same result. (The adjacent photo actually - just wanted to make sure it wasn't the problem) I then tried to publish to my blog but that didn't happen either.

I like the idea of being able to create documents and not have to worry about software compatibility issues when moving from PC to PC - I just didn't find Zoho as friendly as I expected.

# 17 PBWiki

"Well, I never heard it before, but it sounds uncommon nonsense."

I guess Vegemite wasn't an option. I added my blog to the favourite Australian Blogs listing (I still get a kick when a link works!) and added a short piece to the Favourite Books page. This is always so hard as I don't have just one but could wax lyrical for pages. I was very circumspect and limited myself to 2.

The exercise was relatively painless as far as editing a piece but I suspect the challenge lies in the initial set up of the Wiki. At least now I have a better understanding of that process.

# 16 Wikis

"That's nothing to what I could say if I chose."

Maybe that quote should come at the end of this post! I have just finished visiting a number of Wikis, reading much about their virtues and their vices, and, have had a look at PBWiki!

When I first started learning about computers I was always cautioned with 'you only get out what you put in ergo garbage in, garbage out.' but I do have to admit to using Wikipedia for fast, reasonable answers to some queries. I rankle a little at the suggestion that this course of action is for the naive. I have some qualms about universal authorship and the seeming lack of authority but there are ways of monitoring this and checks can be put in place to limit vandalism - such a pity but there you go.

Setting up a Wiki does require much more than just opening at a blank page but I love the idea of a lively, vibrant What's happening in our community type Wiki, attached to the Library's site and available for all to contribute to. Also, the Info. Services Team has been thinking about the possibility of using a Wiki for our Information Services Manual (currently in hard copy at every branch - so updating is very labour based) Peter Blake's article on this topic from the 2007 Information Online Conference had some very useful insights into the do's and don'ts.

# 15 Library 2.0 & Web 2.0

"Reeling and Writhing, of course...and then the different branches of arithmetic - Ambition, Distraction, Uglification, and Derision." Don't you just love Alice!

This is one of my favourite photos - Venice as dawn breaks - what promise it holds of everything a new day can offer.

A lot of harsh things have been written about the possible future of libraries but I for one, am still hugely optomistic and a passionate believer in our ability to grow with the challenge. Just as Web 2.0..."becomes the center of a new digital lifestyle...that changes every aspect of our lives." Tom Storey, so does Library 2.0 offer us the opportunity to listen to our communities and change with them.

I don't share the apparent pessimism of Rick Anderson (Away from the icebergs) I think libraries and librarians have embraced the digital age and are working with it to create unprecedented opportunites for access and experimentation for all sectors of the population, and I don't think you have to chuck the baby out with the bath water - there is still a lot to be said in support of books and other print resources, it's just a question of finding the right balance.

# 14 Technorati

"We're all mad here!"

That's what it feels like sometimes! - There is so much new information to be processed and precious little time to deal with it calmly and logically. I feel as though I am skimming along on the surface and there is so much more to explore and experience.

I am sooo impressed with the work some of my colleagues have produced but I shall continue to plug away. (As with any new skill, I wish I had started with the knowledge I have now and I am sure I would have done things differently.)

Did you know a new phrase has entered the English language (and undoubtedly other languages as well) thanks to mobile phones "I'm on the train." cute hey, but I draw the line at 'Favourited!'- please...

Being a former cataloguer (I don't think you ever stop thinking like one) I understand the push for developing ways of tracking information and for trying to tame to some degree the wealth of information being generated out there - 50 million blogs and growing, even allowing for a high percentage of dross. I was surprised to find my blog was already being captured by Technorati and according to my reading it was because I was using Blogger (however, some of my colleagues - also using Blogger were not - how so? Hmmm! )

Technorati allows for 3 way searching :keywords; whole blog posts: and whole blogs. I have added this to my, To follow up further list as I want to contine on with more Learning 2.0 and time is now an issue.