21. Wikis

Wikis are simple to use. I don't use Wikipedia for information because I'm cautious about the site. It was easy to add a comment about Manny's Ice House.

20. Podcasting

I listened to the Cornell University Library podcast. The audio was clear and easy to follow. I wouldn't be interested in subscribing because I don't think I have enough time or interest in the topics presented. I'm not sure customers would be interested searching out the podcasts either. Perhaps teens would like being involved with them in some way.

19. Hulu

I was surprised by the amount of program offerings on Hulu. I don't watch a lot of television so it would be a way to catch up on a missed episode or program. I think our patrons will still check out DVDs because  they will enjoy watching a program or movie, commercial free.

18.You Tube

The videos I watched tried to promote the invaluable services of libraries and librarians. Some videos were more effective than others. (This is true of You Tube in general.) Last summer Claudia and Cindi made their video promoting summer reading. I can't remember if they put it on You Tube or not, but that would be one way to share information about the library.

17. Music Streaming and Sharing

I downloaded Pandora to my phone. I like being able to personalize my choices of music as I'm sure our patrons do. I think they will continue to check out CD's to explore different artists.

16. Google Docs

This was a helpful tool to learn about since online accessibility of files is valuable. Because the employees of the library have such varying schedules, I can see where this would be helpful for department projects.

15. Google Maps

I was interested in the different options offered. I've always printed simple maps and directions, but I was able to explore other aspects of maps.
http://maps.google.com/maps/place?cid=2910272594980079744&q=Public+Library+near+Frisco,+TX&hl=en&dtab=0&ie=UTF8&ll=33.152508,-96.840191&spn=0,0&z=17

14. You Send It

This speeds up the process of downloading a video file. I wasn't able to do this at the library, but I did download a file and sent it to a relative at home. Fantastic!

13: Tiny URL

I changed http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nookcolor/index.asp?cds2Pid=30919 to http://tinyurl.com/4b7ejoh
It was easy and would definitely be a useful tool for the library.

12. Facebook

I was anxious to set up a Facebook account. I especially wanted to be able to look at my son's profile! I have enjoyed contacting and reconnecting with people. Most of the time you cannot visit a store or view an advertisement without seeing "Visit us on Facebook!" It would seem the library would have no choice but to follow other businesses enticing customers to see what they have to offer.

11. Linked In

This would seem to be a great source of networking in various areas. It would also appear to offer some connections for job hunters. The economy has proven to be overwhelming for many as evidenced by several patrons who visit the computer lab not only weekly, but sometimes daily. Perhaps adding sites like these to the library's employment link would be helpful to patrons.

10. Library Thing

This is very interesting. I would like to continue using this with Facebook friends. Some of my favorite reading materials have been recommended by friends and this is a great way to share.

9. Delicious

This seems to be a useful tool and time saver. Many times I've wanted to find a site I bookmarked, but couldn't because it was saved on another computer. This would seem to be a helpful tool for reference staff sharing sites and also personal bookmarks no longer lost in the shuffle.

8. Tagging

I think the use of tagging is welcomed by our patrons. They are definitely in a fast-paced, "need it now" search for answers and information, so it must be an asset.

7. IM

 Our problem in circulation, as always, is limited computer time. I don't use IM as a regular form of communication. I usually IM when I'm on Facebook. As far as using IM at the library, I'm sure our customers would love the opportunity to IM with our reference librarians. I think it would prove challenging to do that and answer questions of library patrons standing in front of them.