Social Applications

MySpace is certainly the best known social networking site with Facebook a close second. The use by libraries to reach teens is a fun possibility. Many libraries are using social networking tools to obtain and retain patrons whose interests are beyond the traditional offerings of public libraries. Every day we encounter new opportunities for shaping the evolution of the public library. Seeing where technology is already implemented out in the world and then determining what else we can do with it is very exciting. Florida's Ask-A-Librarian has a MySpace page, for example, and we are part of that service. I would love to see LCLS develop a serious e-presence. P.S. Tom is a Libra. His page is filled with comments from people who don't know him but want to. They are faux socializing, reaching out to a seemingly accessible person who has a automated program that "friends" them upon joining MySpace and who, himself, has millions of friends. That word seems devalued in this context.

Billiard Game: After numerous attempts and numerous losses I won this match when the computer sunk the 8 ball. I'll take it. Steve Mizerak of the computerized pool table I am not. I'll stick to a real pool table. Generally, I like computer games and video games. I play the simple variety like Bejeweled as well as more complex like Myst. I also have 3 different video platforms at home and games of all types. I have never joined an online game although technically Second Life is considered a massive multiplayer online role playing game (mmorpg) and I volunteer reference for Alliance Library System. There are certainly applications for libraries in Second Life, but the technical aspects of the software prevent our patrons and staff from accessing Second Life via LCLS computers at our current standards.