#23 The end

There were many hiccups along the way and at times I did not think I would make it, but here I am at the end (thanks Paul and Dianna for all the on the spot help). I've certainly been pushed out of my comfort zone by actually using applications, rather than just looking at them. I'm not sure that I would call the process "fun" but I appreciate having been given the time to explore.

#22 Audio books

I have never been enthusiastic about e-books because they have to be read on a screen and for reading enjoyment I much prefer the book format. However I could get used to audio books. For a library I think the idea of instantly available downloadable audio books sounds great - unlimited access 24 hours a day 7 days a week, a great range of books to choose from, able to download and listen anywhere. For the library no more reshelving, lost books, or lack of shelving space. Apart from socialising and a place to study why would anyone need to come to a library anymore?

#21 Podcasts

Full marks to Yahoo Podcasts, click on listen and away you go. Podcast.net wanted me to install missing plugins and Podcastalley.com wanted me to download a podcast aggregator. If Yahoo can make listening so simple why can't the others?

#20 You Tube

I'm sure there is some fun stuff on this site but I really don't have the time or patience to wait for a clip to load, even those that are less than a minute take more time than my patience can bear. I reckon at least half the 9300 consecutive years that the Wall Street Journal estimates has been spent watching videos has been taken up watching a black screen with a little circle of dots zipping around and around to signify loading.

#19 Web 2.0 awards

Biblio is the 2nd place winner in the Books category, between the winner Lulu (online publishing) and third placed Library Thing. Biblio enables searching across a large number of suppliers to locate used, rare and out-of-print books which can then be ordered online. The search can be limited to a particular country and there is a lengthy list of Australian sources. Very easy to use,

# 18 Zoho writer

A frequent customer request is for use of Word which the Library does not provide. Could Zoho writer or Writely be suggested as an alternative?

#17 Peanut Butter wiki

Love the name, and yes it is easy to use. Was not impressed to find an e-mail informing me that I will be notified of any edits to plcmc learning favourite blogs. I hope I have managed to disable this function.