There are many library related blogs on the Internet. Now that you've had a chance to take a closer look at one or two of them, add a comment to this posting with the following information:
- Name and URL of the blog(s)
- The purpose of the blog (s)
- One or two sentences about your impressions: does the blog meet its purpose, would you go back to the blog to read it again?
Sign your comment.All your comments should be made by September 26, 2008
Carol
33 comments:
My blogs of interest:
Tame The Web
Libraries, Technology and People
http://tametheweb.com/
Interesting and well laid out blog, with information and articles on all kinds of library issues including privacy of data, encouragement to sign up for a library card for library card month. On my second visit there was an advertisement for a speaker visiting a library to discuss ‘what do you know about Web 2.0’. Today the lead story was ‘The Transparent Library”.
I will continue to review this blog.
Letter Box
...for the youth of SPL
http://letterboxspl.blog-city.com/
A great site aimed at teenagers, designed by the surrey public library,it reviews books available to read in the surrey public Library system, a list of popular teen authors and also, offers a book club, and competitions. It is a very basis blog, but easy to read and navigate around.
Nice user friendly site.
Regards Joanne Dawe
World Press.com
http://wordpress.com/tag/vancouver-public-library/
A very interesting blog indeed! The blog is created by world press and there’s an entire section targeted towards Vancouver Public Library, which I found very interesting. I found the blog to be very user friendly. This is one blog I would return to.
Stephanie
Librarian Activist
www.librarianactivist.org
This blog is based in eastern Canada, and offers "news, information, and resources to librarians who want to be active in political and social issues surrounding libraries and librarianship". Although new posts are somewhat infrequent (one/week) it does have an extensive set of links to resources. It isn't a radical rant - it is really about bringing information to people who may be getting left behind in the brave new webinfo world. I will be checking this out again!
Another interesting blog is The Ten Thousand Year Blog, at www.davidmattison.ca/wordpress/ It is updated almost daily, and follows "digital culture preservation issues" but in the process also has lots of news regarding the digitization of existing library holdings, with links to them. I've been keeping track of this one for a while.
Randy Wick
The 1st blog that interested me was the Fahrenheit 451: Freedom to Read book blog. It is a discussion blog about different types of censorship around the world. I thought it was really interesting and read some of the postings. One was very 'Big Brother' and totally believable. I will probably continue looking at this one
http://www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com/
The next blog I checked out was the Gaming Research Weblog, which I thought was going to be about game systems and newly released games, but it is not. It's about gaming addictions and research about that. It was interesting, but I will probably not be looking at it too much in the future...I hope!
http://www.gamingresearch.blogspot.com/
All the best,
Morgan
The Shifted Librarian
Shifting Libraries at the speed of a byte
http://theshiftedlibrarian.com/
To evaluate new technology and how it effects libraries. How they work and what services to provide.
I have come across this blog before and it definitely meets its directive in providing relevant information. It is one blog I try to keep up with.
Sandra Cole
We read banned books, and other stuff too…
The (unofficial) blog of the BCLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee
http://bclaifc.wordpress.com/
This is a great blog for those interested in intellectual freedom and protecting libraries from censors. The BCLAIFC posts regularly (several times a month), almost always with thought provoking material. I've got it saved in my RSS reader, so I read it every time it comes out.
In a similar vein, check out http://librariansagainstpalin.wordpress.com/. It's a limited and special purpose blog, meant to remind readers regularly of Gov. Palin's apparent lack of support for intellectual freedom. I'll be keeping this blog in my RSS reader at least until the US election in November, because I'm interested to learn how the issue develops. I'm particularly interested in how the blog has been used to find more information about her actions collaboratively. See for instance http://librariansagainstpalin.wordpress.com/2008/09/04/what-books-did-sarah-palin-want-banned/.
Librarian.net
(Putting the Rarin back in Librarian)
www.librarian.net
This is a blog run by Jessamyn West, a library consultant in Vermont. Her blog is updated every few days with posts on a variety of topics - ranging from online Q & A resource sites to a list of of New York Public Libraries she visited on a trip to the city.
I found this blog to be user-friendly and easy to read. I'm definitely going to keep following this one in the future.
Kristine
Blog of Interest
Fahrenheit 451: Freedom to read
http://www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com/
The purpose of this blog is to review and discuss censorship worldwide.
I found the scope of this topic very interesting, it's always educational to eavesdrop on the rest of the world. In addition the blog discusses the act of censorship itself and what defines it.
I will read revisit this blog.
Diana.
www.librarian.net
Librarian.net (putting the rarin back in librarian) is maintained by a rural librarian and library activist, Jessamyn West, who focuses on preserving what's special about libraries. Described as a look at the intersection of libraries, technology, and politics,she has also co-edited a book called 'Revolting Librarians Redux - Radical librarians speak out'.
i really enjoy the obvious passion and enthusiasm for libraries, constructive criticisms and the latest news affecting libraries.
Overall an easily accessible sight which is also very informative, and i will visit again.
The second blog i chose is Library Garden at http://librarygarden.blogspot.com/
This is a blog created as an ongoing conversation among librarians with differing perspectives (public, academic, consortial, state, youth, LIS)but one shared perspective: ensuring the health and relevance of libraries. Regularly updated this is a very interesting site, not just for the perspectives i wouldn't otherwise read, but also the breadth of topics covered.
Well worth keeping on top of.
There were many techy oriented blogs that i look forward to understanding one day, as the easy flow among users sharing information will come in handy eventually.
'A book should serve as the ax for the frozen sea within us.'
-Franz Kafka
Blogs of interest:
Name: Simon Chamberlain’s library weblog
URL: http://chamberlain.net.nz/blog/
I found this to be an interesting blog covering many of the ways Web 2.0 technologies are altering the traditional role of the brick and mortar library. Many of posts on this blog consist of links to other blogs/sources that discuss the many aspects of Library 2.0/Information technology and their social implications. Many of the articles he linked to piqued my interest. Unfortunately this blog has not been updated since March of this year.
Name:The Shifted Librarian
URL:http://theshiftedlibrarian.com/
This blog had a very intriguing focus on the subject of videogames and libraries (what a combo!). Many of the posts have links to academic studies on educational videogames as related to libraries. I had no idea that research and implementation was going in terms of the two areas. Will videogames become common in public libraries in the future? I will keep my eye on this blog to learn more about this odd pairing.
Andrew
The Invisible Library
http://sanchezkisser.com/blog/
This is a blog written by a librarian from Oregon. The more recent posts don't actually have too much about libraries (outside of a brief mention of Librarians For and Against Palin), but deal with current events, politics, pop culture, etc. Quite a bit about politics, with the election coming up, but dealt with in an entertaining, informal way. It seems to be updated fairly regularly too. I will probably keep reading this blog from time to time.
Library Juice
http://libraryjuicepress.com/blog/
The subtitle for this one says "On the intersection of libraries, politics, and culture." This one is a little more library-specific than the first one, recent posts include brief blurbs on the controversy surrounding Sarah Palin's attempt to censor the library in Wasilla during her time as mayor, recent book reviews, a story on some librarians running afoul of the US Patriot act in Connecticut; all with links to larger articles. Seems like a very interesting site; I will definitely be keeping tabs on this one.
Fahrenheit 451: Freedom to Read
http://www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com/
I enjoyed browsing this Fonthill, Ontario library's excellent blog about censorship. The quality of the writing is strong and the mediums covered in discussion are diverse. One entry, a superbly argued case against removing a challenged book from a library, actually made me cheer as I finished reading it. The blog boasts an impressively thorough sidebar of links to sites dealing with censorship, libraries and book-lovers. I will check it again for new postings.
librarian.net
http://www.librarian.net/
I stumbled across this blog last year while doing a Google search. Jessamyn West, a library consultant in Vermont, writes regularly on a plethora of topics relating to books, libraries, freedom of information and various websites. It's always interesting to see what's captured her attention.
-Wendy
Inspyration
http://www.inspyre.ca/inspyration/nfblog/
The purpose of the blog is to inform the readers of whatever strikes Heather Matheson's fancy regarding the library world. That primarily seems to be job postings for various library positions. While the blog meets its purpose, I personally do not feel that the blog is of much use. There is no real consistency of topics discussed other than the loose library connection. The postings while frequent are not all that informative. Aslo, the blog seems no longer to be in use as the last posting was in July 2007. Thus, I personally would not go back and read that blog another time.
Sierra
Library Tech Confidential
http://libtechconfidential.com/
According to the author, the main purpose is to be a personal memory aid, so he is documenting articles and links to items of interest to him in the world of libraries, publishing, and information management.
An item that immediately caught my eye was about an RSS feed for Library Technician Jobs in Canada.
Yes, I would go back and read it again.
UBC Academic Search - Google Scholar Blog
http://weblogs.elearning.ubc.ca/googlescholar/
The purpose according to the author is:
"To advocate for librarians, better search tools and web reorganization"
At first glance, the entries cover a wide range of topics, not necessarily completely related to the stated purpose. However, there are some very interesting entries. One in particular that caught my eye was about Alex Wright, which led me to another blog…
Yes, I would go back and read it again.
Marion
I reviewed The Shifted Librarian blog that my classmates, Andrew and Sandra, had listed.
I had been following this blog via bloglines for a week or so myself..
I find it very intersting and informative. The author has a sense of humor which makes its light but factual content enjoyable to read.
For something a little lighter, I'm posting a blog that I subscribe to and visit on a daily basis. Sometimes the blog posts are purely promotional and other times they announce "hot off the press" reads and interesting (or perhaps quirky would be the better term) library and book-related websites. I believe the purpose of the blog is to make people laugh and lighten up. I give to you...
Unshelved!
http://www.unshelved.com/
and I forgot to mention that vg1111 is Vesta Giles!
I chose two blogs. The first one has already been mentioned, but it is definitely a top pick for me, too:
www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com
Fahrenheit 451: Freedom to Read
This site is maintained by the librarian and deals with censorship issues. It is clear and easy to navigate. I will be checking this one out on a regular basis.
The second one:
www.blogwithoutalibrary.net
by Amanda Etches-Johnson, the User Experience Librarian at McMaster University.
It is a blog that would be good for people who are interested in new technologies and how they are / can be used in libraries. Although her style is conversational, I find it a bit "techie" for me. I will probably check on this blob from time to time, but not regularly.
http://www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com/
Fahrenheit 451: Freedom To Read
An interesting and well thought out blog on banned books all over the world. Contains lists of banned books web sites and sources. The list ranges from a childrens picture books, including one about 2 male hamsters who get married (gay marriage) to the ever renowned novel, "Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbary. The blog is simple and easy to navigate around and their sources are reliable (ex: Globe and Mail, New York Times, MacLeans Magazine).
This is a brilliant web site and I will continue to read it over the next while.
The Librarian Activist
http://librarianactivist.org/
This site is not as radical as the name suggests, but it does offer insightful posts on social/economic issues in which library figures largely. The stated purpose of the blog is "to offer news, information, and resources to librarians who want to be active in political and social issues surrounding libraries and librarianship." There are not a lot of posts; there are two so far in September. But the posts are interesting, covering such topics as the decline of the small publishing houses in Canada and how libraries can address the issue of disconnected people in our society. A feature I like on this blog is the directory down the right hand side where one can look for topics of interest and view the posts on those topics.
I like the low key tone of this site coupled with its mission to inform; there are links to great articles and other information within the posts. I will keep this site as one of my feeds.
Jane-Marie
Computers in libraries
http://lists.langara.bc.ca/mailman/listinfo/libcom
The subscription libcompon info page is easy to use requiring a valid email address and password. Once confirmation email has been received it needs a second confirmation and then the list is accessible by providing your email address and password. To unsubscribe, simply type in your email address and click the unsubscribe or edit option window.
The authors write very short and concise opinions regarding using computers in libraries, outlining their experiences using an on-line catalogue.
Most of the posts were from students in the library program and many of them also had experience working in libraries. The layout is very informal but useful with interesting links to other urls of interest. This is an excellent source of information sharing amongst students and peers.
The list is updated regularly and the information has been archived by month and year due to the volume of posts arriving daily.
Nimisha
I chose the "Fahrenheit 451: Freedom to Read" blog to examine. It can be accessed at www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com.
I found this blog very interesting and a great resource for information regarding banned or challenged books. The postings are well-written, informative, and pleasing to the eye. Point of interest: September 27-October 4 is Banned Books Week in the US. It's been happened for 27 years now, and celebrates controversial titles and offers resources for those interested in persuing them.
Overall, I found this site gave me exactly what I was looking for and more. i will definitely revisit this site.
Typo of the Day for Librarians
http://librarytypos.blogspot.com/
This blog highlights typos that exist in library catalogues. Some examples include wrok/ work, magentic/magnetic and recently spinal chord/spinal cord. Typos in catalogues are a serious issue but this blog with its witty entries makes its point in a funny manner. This blog is informative and entertaining, a winning combination that ensures a repeat visit.
The Shifted Librarian
Shifting libraries at the speed of byte
http://theshiftedlibrarian.com
Jenny Levine is the “Information Maven” of the shifted Librarian blog. The blog name comes from a presentation given by Levine on information shifting where she makes the argument for libraries to become more “portable” in order to bring the library to the user. A recent post is about ways in which libraries can incorporate gaming and gaming culture to enhance their programs and outreach. Bringing concepts that initially seem out of step with libraries (eg. gaming), this blog is highly informative and will be a blog to revisit.
I forgot to sign my comment!
Liny is Linda Yenson
Fahrenheit 451: Freedom To Read
http://www.pelhamlibrary.blogspot.com/
The purpose of this blog is to inform the public on the importance of disputing censorship and recognizing the literary value of novels that were banned at some point for various "controversial" issues. This blog is quite effective in that it comes across as more of an informative website rather than falling into place next to your average blog. A few years ago I took an interest in books that had been banned, and I made it a goal to try and read as many as I could, so I am quite impressed with this effort. I will read it again.
Darcie
My choice of a blog I would return to is:
deskslave
http://deskslave.blogspot.com/
Which is subtitled, "Cataloging the magic moments at the reference desk".
This blog appealed for its dry humour and its accounts of day-to-day goings-on behind the reference desk. According to deskslave, anything is to be expected from the typical library patron, but there is an affectionate tone for the clientele and one day I hope to post a comment or two on this blog about my own crazy workday in the library.
Blogdriverswaltz located at http://blogdriverswaltz.com/
is an interesting blog. Blogger Geoff Harder shares his findings, ideas and opinions. The blog is comprised of links to a variety of topics including; Access to information, RRS and Aggregates, Social bookmaking, Social software, and Wikis. There are regularly new postings. Geoff is a Digital Initiatives Coordinator
in the Cameron Library, at the University of Alberta. I think he does a good job in sharing his findings.
Library related blogs of interest:
Library Tech Confidential
http://libtechconfidential.com/
This blog focuses on current events that directly or indirectly affect libraries. Its posting are sporadic which makes it easy to keep up to date with readings. The layout is clear and concise.
Library Finds
http://libraryfinds.wordpress.com
A fairly new blog which exhibits books and other lovely objects found in libraries. It also has links to some other interesting blogs. I really liked this one as it brings the beauty of books to the computer. I will look forward to following it.
Cheryl Kim Lund
This blog is called the effin librarian
http://effinglibrarian.blogspot.com/
This is a cheeky little blog written by a self described 'old' librarian. Most posts are indirectly related to being a librarian. There is a good post on protecting your identity on social utilities like facebook. Generally, I think it is a fun spot to read her musings.
kym jespersen
Citegeist
Libraries, Technology, Social networking
http://citegeist.com/
Interesting and innovative blog with links and commentaries on Library 2.0 developments. Cindi Trainor (Library Tech Coordinator) succeeds in her quest to "capture the spirit of these library times" as she discusses a wide variety of timely and topical technical applications for the modern library.
Joel
I checked out Library Journal -- Book Reviews at http://www.libraryjournal.com/blogs.html
The purpose of the blog is to review different books. I thought it was a neat way to keep up on different books that our patrons may be hearing about. I would definitely go back to the blog and read it again. I think it meets its purpose very well.
Elaine Wiebe
Wanda Bruvold
Kristina Moore
Elaine Wiebe
Activity: Evaluating a Blog
Wanda
This blog is authored by group of seven librarians in the state of New Jersey. Special guests are also invited to add comments. The authors come from various backgrounds; public libraries, academic libraries and consortia. Their goal is to ensure the health and relevance of libraries. The bloggers posts articles that effect or relate to libraries of all types. The blog is formal in nature. The site is nicely laid out and very easy to navigate. A list of links to other blogs is provided. Topics posted to this blog would be of interest to professionals and paraprofessionals working in a library setting. There are 1-2 posting per week. The latest posting is from Sept 24 2008. The author indicates the sources for facts being presented.
Kristina
Another positive aspect of this blog has to do with the number and nature of posted comments. Those who have taken the time to comment on the authors postings also share interesting points of view that are both well expressed and add new perspectives to the topic discussed in each post.
Elaine
Seems like a very interesting blog.
Inspyration
http://www.inspyre.ca/inspyration/nfblog/
The main goal for this blog is “recruit, retain, reflect”. The recruitment aspect is strong, there is a listing of job ads, library career sites and association links. The idea of retaining and reflecting on library related issues is evident in categories such book reviews and conferences. Since, there are no posts after 2007, this site is mainly reflection.
Kejo Buchanan
Post a Comment