What was the most important thing that you learned? Why?
As far as what tools are available on the web, I learned a lot. I knew these things existed, but learning how they work and using them in an everyday context was really helpful. I've been using some of them regularly since I discovered their capabilities.
What was the most challenging exercise? Why?
I thought Flickr was pretty involved. It took me a while to find my way around it, only because there was so much to look through and so many options. I also thought Podcasts were tough because sometimes the sound clips didn't work or took a long time to load, or were basically a waste of time. I also didn't find a lot of podcasts for things I was interested in. Or maybe I just like reading articles more than listening to them.
What were your favorite discoveries or exercises?
My favorite discovery was definitely the RSS feeds! They've changed the way I get news and other information. I've been sharing articles with friends and family, and they've also picked up on RSS feeds and love it. I especially find it useful because I used to look at a lot of different eco/art/gardening/silly cat pictures/design/music/diy sites and had to go to each page individually. Now I get all the feeds in one convenient place. Also, I think I'm going to be keeping this blog going...
How can the Arcadia Public Library use these technologies to deliver or improve library services?
I've made a lot of suggestions about letting the public know about these web tools. I think it would be great if the library could create a program to teach patrons about Web 2.0. Every two weeks or so during the summer maybe, we could hold seminars regarding each tool. As far as getting younger patrons more involved, YouTube or Flickr contests would be a safe bet (and also something fun to do during the summer?).
How successful was the “self-directed” learning model? Is this a useful way of encouraging staff development?
I loved being able to go home and do this on my own time and learning as I go along, and then going to work and talking about the tools with coworkers and learning even more. No pressure, all...pleasure? Yes.
What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or concept?
I would separate the YouTube and Podcast experiments into two different weeks. Also, I think review sites like Yelp should be incorporated. I think Yelp is useful for finding suggestions of local restaurants, shops, museums, etc. as well as for making your own suggestions. Patrons could benefit from it too.
If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you again choose to participate?
I would, and not only in the hopes of winning something! I really enjoyed this 2.0 thing and I love giving feedback on what could be different or what could be added to improve the library. This was a lot of fun! Let's do this again soon, okay? I miss it already! *sniff* Thanks to everyone involved in this challenge!
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Congratulations! You have completed Week 12 and the APL Library 2.0 Challenge! Thanks for all your hard work, thoughtful reflections, and suggestions for utilizing Web 2.0 tools in a library setting. Please remember to keep your blog available for viewing until May 1st.
I'm thrilled that you've enjoyed the challenge and discovered tools that you plan to continue using. And I'll keep reading your blog!
Please join us for the Challenge Celebration on Thursday April 24, 2-3 p.m., in the Auditorium. There will be food and drink, and you will receive your Amazon.com participant gift card and be entered in our Grand Prize Drawing!
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