In my current MLIS course, we were asked to explore the world of Web 2.0/ Library 2.0. Since I participated in this program already, I chose to review my experiences with Web 2.0 and address the features from this program which I still use. I will create a blog post for each task, as we did before.
I will begin with the topics of blogs. Since 2008 and my last engagement with 2.0, I have only used this account to keep a diary of my recent success with the Atkin's Diet program. This blog was very useful for me because I agree with the belief that writing out your accomplishments makes them more fulfilling and creates a source of motivation to continue to succeed. Keeping a food diary also helps you to understand what you are putting in your body and how it may be affecting you. And, of course, what better way to keep yourself accountable for your actions than to post them on the Internet and let your friends criticise/encourage you along the way! :D
I also have a WordPress account to contribute graphic novel reviews for the Palm Beach County Library System blog, ToshokanComix. Although, with attending school and working full time, I don't find a lot of time to contribute reviews.
Now for the tech stuff... Creating a blog on Blogger is definitely easier than figuring out WordPress. There are fewer options here and, as far as I'm concerned, they are not at all confusing. WordPress has many more options to provide for multiple bloggers to contribute to the same blog, making it easier to use in the library setting where multiple librarians will likely be charged with keeping the blog interesting and relevant. I do find it useful to know some basic HTML for including links and changing the format, but both of these programs offer formatting toolbars for those of us who prefer to not overstress about where to place the . and /. They've really made it easy to create a blog.
PBCLS uses ToshokanComix to promote new and classic graphic novels that are currently circulating in our system. Everyone on the internet (presumably our patrons and staff will be the only people actively participating with comments) is welcome to suggest new titles or simply share their opinions regarding graphic novels, comics, manga, super hero movies, comic movies, or whatever else they feel is relevant. Anything really.
Blogs are a great way to engage in passive reader's advisory with your patrons, so long as they are tech savvy - at least, savvy enough to access the blog from home. Another great way to utilize blogs is to create a "news" blog. Our library home page displays links to programs that are offered across the county. However, patrons cannot receive an RSS feed from our web page to keep them updated. They could receive an RSS feed from our blog.
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