Task #7: Cloud Computing - Google Docs and Dropbox

This was a good task so I can get a better understanding of "the Cloud".
Free services are great! After some review I think the preference would be how you use the storage. Google docs is great for editing and documenting, also great for mobile access. Dropbox can also let you share whole files such as photos etc. So simple is good and a place for the more complex is even better.
This needs more time to understand and play with. Specific tasks in mind....

Task #10 - New Website

Great work on the new website! Goodbye drop-down menu!!
I love the layout, things are much easier to locate in multiple places. Also the library account log-in at the top is great.
At first the footer seemed rather large and too wordy but I think it will be a great tool for finding exactly what the patron wants.
I am anxious for the branches to each have their own pages!

Task #9 - Universal Class

I realized I had not blogged about this task! Redo...
I chose not to enroll in a class at this time but many were enticing. I can't believe the extensive list of courses to choose from. This is a great resource especially for someone who is thinking of any online courses to get a taste of technology and commitment.
My favorites would be the photography courses and the psychology information. I can see this also being useful for the serious learner as well as someone seeking a new hobby.
Great Resource!!

task #8 Spanish lib guide

At first I did not get that great of score.. I missed three. But I took some more time examining the guide and was successful in the end. There is so much information here. Great work! to all who had a part in it. It will be great to recomend this and a good learning experice for myself as well. It did seem easy to use and I'm excited to be able to pass it on to patrons.

Task #3

playing catch up... I had watched the video but didn't finish or blog about it, busy summer reading.
Intro to master file:

Extra credit-Google-a-day

Google a day: I had no idea this was available! I could see trivia buffs spending lots of time here. It would be a good tool for someone just learning to search for things and how Google works. I never chose race the clock, it made me too crazy...although it's like when the patron is right there waiting for an answer as you are looking for it ;-)

Enter this for the Sony e-reader, please.

Task #6

Helping Patrons: Yeah! I got all the answers correct. It was good review to make sure we utilize all our resources not just the obvious. Sometimes we give the quickest answer and can surely be more thorough.
Example question:
A student is looking for information about a battle that took place in Colorado during the late 1800's, and also needs an example of a prominent historical figure around that time.

a) show the student the Colorado History collection in the children's center.
b) open the Regional History Room and spend time finding appropriate info
c) search the Colorado Historic Newspaper Collection for battles.
d) all of the above

Task #5

Chilton Library: This database is a big hit at the branches and we no longer have to try to keep the large manuals around. Previously the auto repair was not as easy to navigate and printing wiring diagrams etc. was not straight forward. This is a valuable database to tell patrons about and then they can use it from home.."in their garage at all hours of the night "as one gentleman told me. I would like to see a simple bookmark type handout to promote this tool.
There is a lot of information at the Chilton library including recall notices and maintenance recommendations.

Task #4 downloading e-books

1). After researching many e-readers and the hands-on Sony session (which was very helpful)I have chosen a Nook Color. Nook Color offers many of the features I would be using. Barnes and Noble makes it very user friendly, and Free Fridays are great. I can change font, highlight, and share with friends. Checking FaceBook and e-mail is easy as well as Pandora, pre-loaded.
2). First make sure the Nook is out of sleep mode and plugged into the computer. Make sure adobe digital editions is ready to go!
Browse, this can take a while many things to choose from and seeing what is available or needing to be put on a wait list.
Add to book bag, check-out, download, and drag the e-book. Copy documents... I have noticed that things take a little bit of time to show up in my Nook library after the download is complete. I'm not sure why maybe connection.
Nook is addicting, just a warning.

Task #1 & #2

Yeah! Back to Webolution. I already had my blog set up so just getting back in.... Task two was a fun scavenger hunt. I admit I did get one wrong because I did not read the question close enough. The Downloadable media guide I answered Great Lakes because I found it on the troubleshooting guide on the left, but I realize the answer was in the text and error messages can be found on Hoover.
Thanks for getting us started again.


I think I would like to be in the drawing for the Downtown gift certificate.