So often I come across library websites that have blogs and even Twitter feeds,
but don’t integrate the content into the page thereby forcing users to add
another click to see the content.
Meebo is common and easy enough to figure out
on one’s own, perhaps, but what about the many other channels through which
reference could take place? Skype, for instance? If one of the challenges
of the virtual reference interview is missing out on non-verbal cues from
patrons, then what is stopping the library from implementing webcam reference?
By providing social media tools and the opportunity for your users to provide
commentary and feedback on library programming and services–especially if those
comments are acknowledged or even acted upon–is an easy and unbelievably
effective way to increase appreciation and support for your organization.
Without an understanding of how to separate personal and professional or public
and private identities online, it is far too easy to end up excluding or
alienating users that normally could have found a home in your library’s online
community. Social media is too exposed, and too exposing, to ignore in our
education any longer.
She has described this research in a website: http://www.netlenses.fit.qut.edu.au/ If you click the link to
the Flash animation you will go to a site that includes animations that portray
each category - if your computer does Flash, do explore this area (the link is
in the middle of the paragraph of the site's home page).
Only a small proportion of respondents in any age group say they use
‘emergent technology’ (e.g. Web 2.0 applications) in their research, although
those that do generally find it valuable.