There has been some recent discussion on Libnet about Web 2.0, how to keep up, reading what blogs, who has time, what are libraries allowing/blocking etc. It is hard to keep current with the acceleration of new technologies. I use Bloglines and subscribe to about 45 RSS feeds. I rarely get to them all but about once a month, I skim through everything. About ever couple days (I’d like it to be daily but…) I read my top blogs. I love technology applications so most of them are “tech/web 2.0″ related, but there are library grant blogs, teen programing blogs and lots more too. I also subscribe to vodcasts and podcasts via blogines.
One of my top blogs is The Librarian in Black (by Sarah Houghton-Jan) http://librarianinblack.typepad.com/
I try to read this blog if no other becasuse Sarah’s blog serves as a one-stop-shop for keeping up with technology without having to read dozens of websites, blogs, & RSS feeds related to web 2.0, web design, technology news, library world news, reference stuff, funky gadgets, and other amusing news/sites/posts. She keeps up with reading tons of other blogs and creates posts about what she finds; whats new. I can find out about a cool projects/ideas (Such as IM & Security:How to talk to IT; New blog Friends: Social Networking Sites for Engaged Library Services; sarah’s post of A few good presentations to take a look at), good blog posts by another(such as Top 10 Library 2.0 “no brainers” for Public Librarians; How to Allow for Change in Your Library, Tech for Small Libraries) or fun new free online tools (such as Firedoodle – turn web into whiteboard; Cool Tools for Webmasters; and 3 Sites Worth Checking Out)
On the con side, I have seen inaccurate reporting in blogs – we need to remember blogs are still someone’s opinion, not reviewed, and their interpretation of what they read/see. An example on Sarah’s blogs deals with her interpretation of the upcoming Collaborative Virtual Reference Symposium in Denver and several comments explaining the true purpose of the event.
Conclusion – always remember to evaluate the information you read or yourself!
What You’re Saying