Flowchart..

For our assignment, we were asked to create a flowchart. In this particular flowchart, comes from the view of a Non-resident person, who wishes to get a library card and take out one item. See: http://www.gliffy.com/publish/1323129/

"Wikipedia becomes class work"

This article discusses how one professor, Martha Groom from the University of Washington-Bothell "transforms" wikipedia into a classroom assignment. She uses wikipedia as a tool, in which students edit an existing article or post an original one (rather than writing an environmental history paper). Professor Groom states, " Wikipedia has been vilified as a petri dish for misinformation". While students found that writing online allowed them to receive "better than average" grades versus writing a paper.

Reference:

Workology section (unknown author). (Nov. 6,2007). "Wikipedia becomes class work" (Metro)

More about Library 2.0

Check out: http://ajkeen.com/e.htm

(sent to me via email at work)

Evaluation of Greenstone..

As professor Nickerson states, some of the ways in which to evaluate software such as Greenstone include the following: 1) Scope, 2) Design, 3) Development, 4) Testing , 5) Production and 6) Maintenance (Lecture 5: October 9,2007). Other factors to consider are available features, customization abilities, technical support, various costs and scalability. Through the evaluation of Greenstone, it is able to achieve the majority of its objectives. Being open source and multilingual, is a major advantage for libraries or organizations. This means the elimination of cost and the possibility of widespread use among a diverse audience. Though like any other software, Greenstone has its own set of limitations such as downloading the product. As it was confusing and cumbersome (for me to figure out how to download), which can be problematic. However, if such downloading feature is improved or having a more concise instruction (i.e. how to download manual), its features are generally positive.

Future of Libraries..

I haven't had a chance to really look into this book, A Brief History of the Future of Libraries: An Annotated Bibliography by Gregg Sapp, but I thought it was interesting to think about "the future of libraries". Some people have posulated that libraries and/or profession of librarians being "taken over" or replaced by technology. These concerns are also raised by Sapp, the following include:
- libraries becoming increasingly less relevant due to the electronic world
- libraries receiving less fudning and support
-information controlled by a selective population
-librarianship will cease to exist as a profession
-library principles will disappear
(Sapp, p.vi)

Another perspective is that libraries are seen as:
-providing all information needs
-services will be seen as highly valued
-libraries are contested sites for information rights
-recognized as "consummated information professionals in society"
and "libraries will thrive"
(Sapp, p.vii)


Reference:

Sapp, Gregg. (2002). A Brief History of the Future of Libraries: An Annotated Bibliography. London: ScareCrow Press, Inc.

Updated...

I've spent a fair amount of time, re-working the 1311 blog, as well as taking the time to work on all the assignments for 23things. Anyone interested about it, you can visit the "updated version" at:http://tpl-faye.blogspot.com/ though I don't know for how long I'll be able to catch up :/

Library Humor- "massive fine on this one.."

23 Things

We have a self-taught course called, 23 Things at TPL offered at work (it's a 10 week workshop). I finally decided to work on the assignments today, I still have alot of assignments for school awaiting for me...so I am most likely to fall behind again with this.

Here is the cool site (for anyone who wants to learn more about blogging): http://tpl23things.blogspot.com/

This is my work assignment blog, http://tpl-faye.blogspot.com/. I've learned alot of cool things :) I hope I can keep it up!

The term: Library

Where does the historical term library come from?

Libraries were not called such, but rather archives with unpublished records, such as the temples of Sumer. These included clay tablets in cuneiform script, similarly with Ancient Egypt and their papyrus scripts. While the first private or personal library (consisting of fictional and non-fictional books) appeared in classical Greece during the 5th century BC. Two famous libraries include: The Boston Public Library and The New York Public Library (retrieved at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library ). This also reminds me of a course I took last year, the history of records and records keeping taught by Professor Craig. I have yet to take Rare books and Manuscripts.

See also:

Davies, David William. (1974).Public libraries as culture and social centers: the origin of the concept. Metuchen, N.J. : Scarecrow Press.

Dilevko, Juris. B. (2007). Readers' advisory service in North American public libraries, 1870-2005 : a history and critical analysis. Jefferson, N.C.: McFarland & Company.

Polastron, Lucien X. (2007). Books on fire: the destruction of libraries throughout history. Rochester: Inner Traditions.

Imagination Library..

It was awhile ago, but I remember watching Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. It really was transformative because of the ability of one person, who used her fame to promote literacy for chidlren. To this day, I can recall that Dolly Parton became involved with children and reading, because of her father, who was illiterate. It was a painful experience growing up for her and knowing that her father couldn't read that brought about this idea. Though she could not have children of her own, Dolly's love for children also aspired this project to come true.
This is her site: http://www.imaginationlibrary.com/

I know others such as Oprah who have helped young girls obtain a better education. Her site is:
http://www.oprah.com/presents/2007/academy/academy_main.jhtml

Ontario Early Years

There's this really cool program called Ontario Early Years (Family Day) that is offered in my community. Here is the link to their home page:
http://www.ontarioearlyyears.ca/oeyc/en/home.htm

The reason why I've included this in my blog, is that this program basically offers activities that help with parents learn with their child, and that involves reading! It's a free two hour program for kids and parents/guardian, or nannies/babysitters and kids (based on a first come first serve basis), which includes a variety of programs such as Baby Time for ages 0-18 mths, CPNP Prenatal program, Family Time, Toddler Time ages 19-36 mths


One of the reasons, why it's great, is that they provide articles and pamphlets about reading activities. For example, Reading Aloud with Children of All Ages by Derry Koralek, which emphasizes that reading aloud assist children learn about the world around them through scaffolding of parents and professionals. It also offers tips with reading aloud with babies, such as associating reading with books that are warm and pleasant, words that have patterns, sounds or rhythms. By asking engaging questions babies and/or children develop cognitive and comprehensive skills. In other words, not only do kids become aquainted with reading, interaction with their peers and professionals, but it also educates parents/guardians the imporantance of reading. Some parents may already know this, but there maybe some parents who are not aware about the significance of reading in a child's development.

References:

Schickedanz, J.A. (1999). Much More than the ABCs: The Early Stages of Reading and Writing. Washington: DC: NAEYC.

Trelease, J. (2001). The Read Alound Handbook (5th ed.). New York: Penguin Putnam

Green Gables and Library Landmarks...

One of the visits to P.E.I (Cavendish), is the Green Gables, which inspired the stories of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Also, here is a link more about this wonderful building, http://www.gov.pe.ca/greengables/. I remember watching Anne of Green Gables played by Megan Follows, as a child, I have yet to re-watch and read the books (again). I wonder if I still like them?? I'm sure as most of us read various types of books in our lives, it's always interesting to compare if we still like them; as a childhood compared to as an adult.

Also, there will be a new T.V series of Anne of Green Gables played by Anne Shirley (Retrieved on October 21, 2007 at http://jam.canoe.ca/Television/2007/10/15/4578373-cp.html)


Visit to the Saint John Public library in P.E.I:


This is the old Public Library in Saint John, P.E.I. which is now an Art Gallery/ Museum







The new Public Library in Saint John, P.E.I


I haven't travelled as extensively as I wish I could, but these are a couple of architectural libraries in P.E.I. I have yet to find the picture of the National Library of Quebec, from my travels, which features a really nice area for children and youths, who can watch dvds in the library!! It's very modern, and as I recall, the library opens til 10pm!
For now, you'll have to settle for the website version: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grande_Bibliothèque_du_Québec


Also, a friend of a friend, works at an architectural company, A.J. Diamond, Donald Schmitt and Company, which designed the Central Library in Richmond. Though he was not working there at the time of the construction, it's just cool to know!
More information here at: http://www.rhpl.richmondhill.on.ca/Libraries/CentralLibrary.cfm

Young Voices Conference 2007

"Young Voices Writers Conference. Work with professional writers on your creative writing! Meet other youth who like to write. ..."

Being one of participates, I was very honoured to help out with the Young Voices Writer's Conference, which was held yesterday. It enabled me to see a small glimpse as to some of the big responsibilities that entailed being a Y.A (Young Adult) Librarian. It's not an easy job, but I'm sure it is rewarding! (ramp.torontopubliclibrary.ca/secondary/stufftodo/events/youngvoiceswritersconference/three-content.jsp)

There were about 165 students that registered for this awesome workshop, and the turn out was great! Guest speakers included Wayson Choy (writer of "All that Matters" and the "Jade Peony"), Jean Paul (comedian writer), Karen Crossingly (I believe that is how you spell her last name? who is an editor), to name a few. It made me realize how fortune teens in this generation have resources they can turn to, esp. in public libraries. Although I was born in Toronto, I don't recall having such wonderful events as a teen growing up here. I hope events and activities promoted by public libraries continue to thrive, so we can have inspiring young authors, poets and artists always!

The Toronto Public Library has a great resource for teens on their website called Ramp (http://ramp.torontopubliclibrary.ca/)

Conclusion: The Rise of Library 2.0 by Talis et al.

The notion of “readily available information” that is accessible anywhere and anytime (Chad and Miller,p.4) forces users, such as ourselves, to question Library 2.0. As stated in the article, it is a library service that has the ability to fulfill the needs of the modern user and their expectations (Chad and Miller, p.4,8). However, as pointed out by Chad and Miller, one of the limitations such as “up front charges” may be a barrier in enabling the notion of “readily available information”. Thus, How can we further evaluate the benefits and cons? What are some of the criterions that can be used as a level of indicator? Are there articles that offer a different point of view about Library 2.0 (i.e. more insight towards Library 2.0, negative impacts or downside of Library 2.0). Overall, the notion of Library 2.0 appears to be a “rational” concept because of its ability to adapt to change in order to meet the demands of the users and their expectations. While encouraging participation feedback, it is also a system that provides information that is more “easily obtainable” through a “user-driven” method (Curran et al, p.288). However, we need to ask ourselves if such a concept is viable and practical?

Currently Reading..

Currently Reading: The Cupid Chronicles by Coleen M. Paratore

Bramble Cape Cod's only library is facing dangers of closure, til thirteen year old Willa Havisham decides to help! (Putting her crush, Joey Kennelly on hold)....

just some light reading, no blogs on technology or other computer related stuff here :( (Next time!)

"Google Promises a discreet View" by David Ljunggren

Article posted on Tuesday Sept 25, 2005:

Google Inc. is considering in having a feautre that allows "street-level close-ups of city centres"; a "street view map feature". I think it's much better than the orginal geo-tagging, that only gives you a mere glimpse of the destination you are heading towards :D What will technology and technology "experts" think of next? :)

http://www.thestar.com/article/260107

Then there's the problem of security, while I was reading the posts from fellow colleagues. However I was unable to locate the link :( I'll try again,when I have time.

The article was on the Toronto Star, Technology- Business section: Tuesday September 25,2007 "N.Y. probes Facebook security"

Parent's Guide...

A collegue of mine had asked me to do an interview for Parent's Guide. Remember I wrote an entry about how students decide on their "career path" and choices amongst universities and colleges and an article of a graduate of MLS or MLIST program. Well, it's something along the lines of such. I was asked how I got to where I am today, and that is being a poor and busy grad student. Oh I mean, an "official librarian", once I graduate!

Once the article is published and out on press, I will post it up! :)

Information as a "lethal weapon"...

What I learned today, whatever you post on the internet (i.e. blog), information is stored somewhere. I'd like to know where? As mentioned in class, isn't that an act against one's privacy? I also noticed that facebook has even pointed out that anyone can search our site by free texting on the internet, that's kinda scary. Social networking as information that can be "potentially harmful?" hmm.. makes you think twice about what to post, what is out there, and who could be tracking you down???

Came across..

I came across an article in the York U magazine, Oct 2007.

It features a blog by a science librarian entitled: " Confessions of a Science Librarian", and how he started blogging, his reasons for blogging, and a variety of science books that he's interested in sharing wih others. Like him,I thought it was something interesting to share with you all.

Here is his blog: jdupuis.blogspot.com

Collection Development..

Here I was sitting in class, learning about how libraries have become this "demand driven" market, or as it is called, the "bookstore model". It's so true, working at a public library, our collection seems very consumer-oriented. As I think about this in class, how many copies of Harry Potter, (the whole series from the first to last one), do we own in the entire system? I can say alot! Not just books, but DVDs, books on Cds (I think books on tapes are out of date though?), and I've even seen Harry Potter books in Chinese! What's my point?

As my professor was pointing out, we've become so absorbed with the idea of getting the most current item into the public library, as a need for the patron, what are the consquences to such? The philosophy of collection development represents a collection that encompasses everything. With that in mind, a collection such as that is a good thing, right? However, it does have a downside, and that is an "opportunity cost" meaning if budget is allocated for current books, then there is the possibility that money for other material can not be bought for another particular type of patron (i.e. interior design books). Also, what happens if books such as Harry Potter become "outdated"? Will people still re-read them or will they become discarded or sent off to book ends (books sold at a discounted price)? I've also kept in mind that not everyone reads at the same pace as the Harry Potter series have been advertised (such as myself, but I've read them all, just not at the pace as some people have read them).

In the end, my question is how do we manage a collection that serves both pragmatic and entertaining items? or can items be both pragmatic and entertaining that is long lasting within a collection? Should surveys be done? doesnt' that cost money? How can a balanced be made at a "fair" price and how can such collections be "objective" in such a balance? It's just a few questions I'm wondering what a librarian would do? However, according to the Professor, librarians do not have a choice, but choices are already made by them through advertising and needs of a particular clientele.. Well that's another topic altogether.

Reading..

"A Librarian's Course" by Kathryn Klages

So if it wasn't confusing enough for high students choosing a degree that leads to their "ideal dream job", it can be complicated even in library school or when one specializes within library science. As told by a recent MLS or MLIST graduate from Western (in this particular article), Kathryn Klage's decisions posed such dilemmas. Her experiences include an eight month co-op placement at the University of Saskatchewan's Health Science Library, records management in Dohar, Qatar and now does contract work in Africa. Through reading Klages's article, the opportunities of a "professional librarian" is not solely bound to the reference desk, but many windows of opportunity (i.e. cataloguing, records management, specialized libraries (law, health, fine arts, business), the public library (adult librarian, teen librarian, children's librarian), also the management aspect to name a few). Her journey is one that "is never straight-it is a sequence of zigs and zags" (Klages, p.43).

Anyone have any ideas what specialized field in library science they want to be in? or a particular type of librarianship? and why?


Reference:
Klages, Kathryn. (2007). "A Librarian's Course". Access OLA. 13(4), 42-43.

Another week..

It's another week of classes, getting into the routine of things, assignments and expectations. Lots to do and so little time...

Hmm.. wondering if can I make the time to read a short easy read (amongst the pile of assignments that lay ahead of me)? What to read, what to read? I find myself during my commute to class that I should be reading! anything! Sometimes it's hard to find something you can really enjoy reading and also it's difficult to read when there's so many people on the tube! At times, I resort to the Metro. I can't say anything in the news really stood out today, but I did find an article about a survey as to how students make their decisions on post-secondary education and their career choices. Accoring to the article, most people resort to online sources about a particular career or ask for advice from friends or colleagues. It was just something that I thought was interesting. As for the numbers (stats) I don't have it on me, but I think it's about divided among the two resources. I find that a growing number of young adolescents and even adults have a hard time knowing "what they want to be when they grow up" or their "calling".

So, how did some of you decided to take upon the "MLS" program at FIS?

1311_Faye

Welcome!

So I decided to post another blog.. I wanted to edit my first entry or at least, post another entry under the first entry, but I didnt' know how to? I figured blogger.com doesn't allow new entries?? Feeling disappointed that 1) perhaps there isn't an editing feature after a blog is posted 2) having to repost another blog, do I feel silly! 3) is there a spell checker here? ( you never know when one misspells a word, it's highly embarrassing)

Then I realized I can use this feature called dashboard (to modify my entry), by the time I figured that out, I've already posted this new one, grrr.

As I looked onto other colleagues and their blogs, I feel that my inital post is rather dull :( I have no pictures, no real substance, but a mere blog about blogs. How boring is that? Who wants to hear about it, except when taught by our professor, of course! :)

I thought to myself, maybe I should write something that is perhaps remotely interesting? What about novels we've read lately, does anyone keep a reading log? or what about books that we use to like reading, but wondered why we ever liked it (vice versa).

Recently read: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Most liked book that I can reread over and over again: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Favourite children's book: The Princess and the Pea by Hans Christain Andersen

I sometimes wonder to myself how many authors (who write children, young adult, adults books) are out there in the publishing world? How do they get their inspirations, and what makes a book or novel " a best seller" or "successful"? What about advice to future aspiring authors? Hmm.. that's something I can address in my next blog.

btw, I apologize for any confusion for posting blogs on the main course website :(