Thing 17

The tools/databases here have become some of the most, if not THE most important tools available to patrons. The databases provide very current information as well as helpful historic information. Some of the tools have all but replaced reference texts, general use books and magazines/journals. Fast and easy searching makes research so much easier than the methods used decades ago. Some of the tools better lend themselves to academic and research activities than general public library use but are really helpful.

Thing 16

What a helpful resource for keeping a student or project coordinator on target. The organized person is more likely to love a plan like this. The teacher guides provide a visual, tangible step-by-step plan. Any large library project would probably benefit from a tracking system like this.

Thing 15

Puzzle Pirates is entertaining. It's a stretch, in my mind, to find strong ties to a library "purpose" but I suppose something like this draws children and young adults to the site. Second Life is like a step into "FutureWorld" only the future is now. Again, I wonder how much impact a Second Life "life" has on potential library use. If a person's spare time (what spare time?) is spent in a virtual world, is there time to pursue knowledge, entertainment, etc. in the real world library? I'll probably have a different impression as time goes by.

Thing 14

LibraryThing is a good way to share favorites and recommendations. I created an account and added a few items.

Thing 13

Online calendars and personal organizers can work really well when you are online much of your day...at home, at work, and away. Portable internet access (iphones, etc.) lend themselves to this better than having to find a wireless access, cable, access, etc. Backpack is amazing. With other systems in place at work and at home, I don't anticipate using these in the near future.

Thing 12

These tools are great if you enjoy sharing your thoughts or are interested in reading what others think. One drawback is that statements/headlines may not be based on fact. One headline pronounced the results of an event that had not even taken place, yet. They may be productivity enhancers if you're compiling information or thoughts about information. They may be productivity detractors if you become bogged down in the volumes of thoughts.

Thing 11

I added tags to my blog and created a Del.icio.us account. These are really helpful with collaborative projects...especially in the education field. If I spent more time gathering research data I would definitely use this tool.