ALA 2011 Virtual Conference

If you were wishing you could have been in New Orleans for this summer's American Library Association's annual conference, it is still possible to get in the fun and wealth of information and resources that this conference can offer.

Check out ALA's 2011 Virtual Conference and see what they have to offer. It's being held July 13-14th online and only costs $69. If I wasn't so busy with my two summer school classes that begin this next week, I would definitely check out these two workshops:


10:30-11:30
“Download This! How One Library Embraced Its Downloadable Future”
Sponsored by PLA
In 2010 the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County conducted an evaluation of its downloadable materials collection. A team collected data on 83 other libraries' collections, ranking the collections and noting best practices for presenting and supporting those collections. The team recommended dramatically increasing the Library's downloadable budget, improving its catalog and website, marketing its collection, implementing staff and customer training, and improving customer support. The session will present the results, one year later.

1:30-2:30
“Seriously Social: Leveraging Social Media”
Sponsored by PLA
Explore the fundamentals of social media, learning how to effectively use social networking to engage patrons and foster personal relationships. Discover how the Grand Rapids Public Library leverages the power of social media to provide outstanding customer services and promote their library. A live demonstration of Twitter and Facebook (or the reigning social media at the time of this presentation) will illustrate the assets embedded in online relationships.

This is just a sample of these wonderful workshops that ALA is offering for those who simply could not get away or afford traveling to beautiful New Orleans for this year's annual conference with ALA. This educational resource is great for anyone who works in libraries.

Laura Graff's Video on Closing School Libraries

This is a video by librarian Laura Graff on what could happen if the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is successful on closing all of the school libraries in the district.

The video is open captioned.



By now most folks have heard of the LAUSD's decision to remove library workers and close the school libraries. The focus now changes to the teacher librarians who are duel credential instructors.

The administrative hearing what to determine if those people could be transitioned to a classroom. The sticking point is that the teacher librarian had to be actually teaching within five years.

Over at the Library is Not A Fruit blog there is a detailed account of what the teacher librarians experienced during there two day LAUSD administrative hearing.

You should read as much of it as you can before your anger takes over.

Typical PCC Student?

During my time here on the PCC campus, I have met many students. Recently, I was having a casual conversation with a PCC student who was on the tech crew of a production I was in off-campus. He wondered why he had never seen me on campus in the two years he had been in attendance here. I mentioned that I spent a good portion of my time in the library. Imagine my shock when I heard him say that he had never ventured into the Shatford library the entire two years he has been a student here!

Of course, this made me inquire how he did his research for school. Jokingly, I asked, "I don't suppose you Google everything?" He said, "Yes, and I use Wikipedia." Right away, I started shaking my head and explained that the library has valuable tools and resources to access good sources of information. He still clung to his opinion that he did not need to come to the library.

It is my philosophy that LIB 1, which teaches basic library research skills, should be a requirement for every incoming student but we most likely would not have enough faculty on hand to accommodate all of these students. It does make me wonder how many teachers bring their classes into the Shatford library to introduce their students on how to do proper research.

With recent news of LAUSD teacher librarians having to defend their positions and other school librarians getting pink slips, students will be the ones to suffer. For those that think libraries do not have a place in schools, think again. Without libraries, students will not have access to textbooks or computers they may not be able to afford to purchase, a quiet place to study, and assistance to locating resources whether print or digital.

The typical PCC student probably does not utilize the library as much as he should but it would be nice if we could change this. What do you think could entice the average PCC student to come in to the library or at least access the library's databases at home rather than going straight to Google or Wikipedia? This is the question that I will continue to ponder and leave with you as well.

The Next Step - First Days Part I

Three weeks into the UNT/CSUN MLIS program, I'm feeling more positive. I think a lot of what I was feeling was nervousness and anticipation about how everything would go those first days at the institute when we were in class sessions 8 hours for four days straight. As many predicted, we were all exhausted by the end of that long weekend but one well worth it. I looked at this weekend similar to my first ALA conference last year: jam-packed with information and great experiences.

We started out with an optional pre-institute dinner on Thursday night so we could begin to get acquainted with our fellow classmates or co-horts as the term they use in this program. Friday through Monday, they squeezed in orientation and a semester of lectures which obviously is impossible but nonetheless they tried their best. We did experirence some hands-on as we had homework to complete during that time as well. This semester our two courses are Introduction to Information Professionals which is a bit similar to LIB 101 and Introduction to Information Access and Retrieval which is like a refresher of LIB 102 Reference and more.

I did my best to become acquainted with as many of my classmates as possible over this long weekend. But with 50 people in our class, it was not an easy thing to do. I could probably have made more of a point to be more sociable Thursday night but I find dark, noisy restaurants not an easy situation for having conversations. I did meet at least three people that first night though I didn't really see them the rest of the weekend. I made a point of talking to as many different people every day we were there. Saturday night, there was a dessert social which I did attend and got more of a chance to talk with our professors along with classmates. Over the course of the weekend, I discovered that there are four of us that are alumni of the PCC Library Technology Program. In addition, there's another classmate whose taken a few courses and was debating whether finishing the certificate program or not since she's in this MLIS program now.

I know a lot of students wonder if they could really get through graduate school. I will admit since I'm just beginning I can't really say for sure but I believe if you can get through the Library Technology program at PCC, you can do this. I am amazed at the huge diversity in my class from ethnic, education, work experience and more. For those of you who English is not your first language, a handful of students like you are making their way through this program as well. In addition, one of the professors for our first classes is not a native English user which shows that if one wants to, one can truly achieve great things.

While I will admit that online learning is not my first choice, the reason I like this program is that it gives you a little bit of that face-to-face in addition. It's nice being in a relatively small class where most of your classmates don't live too far from you so it's possible to form study or support groups as needed. It's also nice not having to go to class every week but there is what seems like more homework to make up for that. An example of that are the weekly discussions that go on in both classes which makes sense. One thing that makes this program more personal is we have a class roster where we had to post our picture along with a brief biography about ourselves. One can always look at this roster or use a web tool called SNAP which allows you to view someone's picture simply by clicking on the person's name link while participating in the discussions.

Describing a whole weekend of everything I experienced and learned is impossible in one post so I'll continue later this week.

The Next Step

"Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing." Helen Keller,The Open Door,1957

This isn't my usual "Quote of the Week" post that I've done in the past. I started out with this quote because recently I've been feeling rather discouraged about starting graduate school. I have to say there have been numerous times I've felt like just throwing in the towel even though classes hadn't even started yet. So why the frustration? While I won't go into all the ins and outs now, it's been everything from the application process to financial aid.

While I'm still not feeling all that excited even today, this quote got me thinking. I found this quote by Helen Keller while working on one of September's book displays for the Shatford Library yesterday. I will admit I've thought about postponing or avoiding graduate school altogether during all the ups and downs these past few months. While thinking about Helen Keller's quote, it has made me realize that I should look on this experience as another adventure in my life and not worry so much about everything. Before everything finally came together, people around me kept telling me that it would all work out. How they were so sure when I was so doubtful is beyond me. But I'm thankful for the wonderful support group I do have that has helped me get through this preliminary time.

In a few days, I will be officially starting the next step as Mrs. Kim always referred to it in Library 104 as I begin classes in the brand-new University of North Texas/California State University, Northridge cohort program as one of fifty students.

Many have asked me to blog about my grad school experiences. You can follow my adventures as a graduate student in this library and information studies program by continuing to read this series, "The Next Step".

Cuesta College Online Library/Information Technology Certificate Program

Cuesta offers an Associate degree and Certificate in Library/Information Technology, and collaborates on a Certificate in Web Development Technologies.

All of the Library/Information Technology courses in the program are online, and can be completed from anywhere. (One Fall course requires an on-site orientation meeting in San Luis Obispo.) The cost--$20 per unit for California residents--is still one of the great bargains in higher education.

Registration is now open; Fall classes start August 17, 2009. Links to online application information and forms are included in the attachment.

For more program information please visit our program website http://library.cuesta.edu/libt/index.htm or call Kathy DeCou (805)546-3190.

University of Arizona Digital Information Management Certificate Program

June 2009 - For immediate release

The University of Arizona Digital Information Management (DigIn) Certificate program is currently accepting applications for Fall '09. IMLS scholarships are available.

-------------------------

The University of Arizona School of Information Resources and Library Science is pleased to announce that openings are available in the school's graduate certificate program in Digital Information Management (DigIn), and that scholarships are available for students entering the program in Fall 2009.

DigIn combines intensive, hands-on technology learning and a strong grounding in the theoretical principles needed to manage large-scale digital collections in a fast-changing environment. The program supports a wide range of professional careers involving digital collections, including but not limited to libraries, archives, and museums.

Graduate certificates are increasingly being recognized as a means for information professionals with advanced degrees to enhance their knowledge and technology skills. DigIn is also open to professionals who are new to the field and who may be considering a masters-level education in the future.

The program is delivered 100% online and has no residency requirements.
Students generally complete the certificate in four or six semesters (15 months or 27 months).

DigIn now accepts applications before the start of the Summer, Fall, or Spring semesters. The application deadline for Fall '09 is July 1. Late applications will be accepted, although we cannot guarantee admission for the fall semester.

DigIn was developed in cooperation with the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records and the University of Arizona Outreach College. Major funding for the program comes from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which has also provided scholarship funding.

Additional details on the program including course descriptions, admissions requirements and application forms may be found on the program website:

digin.arizona.edu

Applicants may also contact the DigIn staff at:

digin@email.arizona.edu.
-------------------------

Sunday Morning Reflections

I'm avoiding doing the list of things I swore I was going to do today. They will get done but I wanted to put down a few thoughts about life, and the library program.

I've received my certificate months ago. My idea was to start working in a library as I continue other adventures. I didn't think that was going to be a problem. I did not anticipate the mortgage and related financial crises putting a serious crimp in my plans.

I also didn't anticipate a series of life events to knock the stuffing out of me. If this should happen to you I'd tell you honestly to do the best you can and quit worrying.

This is why they call it life, you take what you are giving, using the skills you have and find a way of dealing with the dreary and the impossible.

I am optimistic.

I've heard through the various grapevines that I am involved with that there are cities around the country that are closing libraries for two weeks cold. Not even the libraries web sites will be active.

Other libraries are having mandatory furlough days for their employees. In California, who knows how the hammer is gonna come down on state and certain local libraries but make no mistake there will be an impact.

Because there is still a need for what librarians, paraprofessionals, librarian assistants and technicians. It might be we will need to look at opportunities in the private sector.

Large law firms certain have librarians and library assistants but with the (hopeful) changes in health care there should be more options for our services.

I can tell you the software programmers and entrepreneurs definitely need our services but they don't know it. For those that have an interest in cataloging, open source development, taxonomy or programming you could make hand over fist money. You might have to convince folks of your value but I'm telling you the computing industry needs us.

That is one of the keys - having more than one skill set. I am doing a lot of writing these days. I will tell you that everything I learned in the program is being used on a daily basis.

Sometimes I use those skills to help colleagues find or verify information. I can use my writing as a way to point to credible or alternative information sources using the guidelines on how to evaluate a source.

Many times I'm researching topics I have little or no information about and I want to understand both sides. I can't tell you how many times I've been able to find what I need to prove a point with factual information by following the processes we learned in class.

You know, let me be straight with folks.

I know some of you are or were in the program because your job required it. All you want to do is keep your job, shelve books and do what you are told. You aren't interested in technology or the next new thing. You want the paycheck, health care and two weeks in July.

That is cool. I understand and respect that point of view.

There are others of you that want to be librarians in physical buildings assisting patrons, sniffing book dust and being of service, even if it means chasing the pervs out of computer room.

That is cool too. If I get the financials in place I hope to be one of Tsk-Tskers myself someday.

No matter how you see your life/work path keep learning. I don't care if you are 18 or 80 you have to keep informed. For your financial safety you have to have more than one body of knowledge or set of skills that you can call upon.

What do you know that another person might value?

I'm not necessarily talking about academic knowledge, thought that is certainly important. Knitting. Fishing. Knowing the difference between the Red Skull and the Red Claw.

Knowing the differences in BBQ styles in the country from mustard, vinegar or those that apply the magic rub. Whatever you know that is special, even if it is your family history, adds value to what you bring to any so-call job or employment.

This is a time of social networking. Well, networking has always been social but instead of face to face it is now includes keystroke to keystroke. You now have the opportunity to make connections beyond your immediate physical area.

The point I am taking way too long to make is to implore you to engage in some form of networking or electronic social networking. You should also continue to add to your personal knowledge base and take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Oh and have some fun too. Very important.

So I will be still posting on the blog from time to time. Not as much as I would like. I feel bad when I don't post a gem that I think the LT community would be interested in or you should know about.

Don't forget to dive into the archives - there might be something that answers a question from long ago that pops up again and again.

UNT/CSUN Information Meeting At Pasadena Library

You might recall Jared gave a recap of his experience attending a information session about the University of North Texas conducting a School of Library and Information Science program on the campus of California State University, Northridge. Dr. Philip Turner will give the presentation.


This is a distance learning program. Most of the classes and communication will be conducted via the Internet. The classroom meetings and exams will take place on the campus of CSUN. This program is restricted to Los Angeles/Southern California area students who can attended the CSUN class sessions. You can view the program flyer for more details.

This is a reminder for those of you considering an online library school program that they will be a information meeting March 9, 2009 at Pasadena Central Library, Pasadena, CA at 3 p.m. The address is:

Pasadena Central Library
285 E. Walnut Street
Pasadena, CA

There will be also be an information meeting the same day Buena Vista Library in Burbank, CA. The starting time for the Burbank information meeting is 7 p.m.

Buena Vista Library
300 N. Buena Vista
Burbank, CA

For more information about the Los Angeles area specific distance learning program you can visit the University of North Texas information page. You can also visit the main library school program site.

UNT/CSUN MLS Program Information Sessions

For anyone interested in applying to the CSUN/UNT MLS program there are two upcoming info sessions -- one is a Pasadena!

http://www.unt.edu/slis/distance/california/infosess.htm

March 9th, 2009

Pasadena Central Library - 3pm
285 E. Walnut Street
Pasadena, CA
(626) 744-4041

Buena Vista Library - 7pm
300 N. Buena Vista
Burbank, CA
(818) 238-5620

Reflections - Part 2

Remember how you felt your first day at a new school? That's definitely how I felt my first night of class in the Library Tech Program. I was nervous about so many different things.

Here is a list of some of them:

• Would I enjoy the class?
• Would I make any friends?
• Could I handle the workload with having a full-time job?
• Would I be able to understand the teacher?
• Would the class really be able to help me make the decision of whether the library field was for me or not?

I can say a lot of my fears were needless but understandable. I hadn't been in school in over 20 years. I found out that I wasn't the only one which helped make the start of my journey back to school bearable. On the first night, our instructor for LIB 101, Ann Dallavalle, had us all say a little something about ourselves, why we were taking the class, etc. She made it a little easier on us by starting it off by telling us about her background which was nice as well as very informational.


You may wonder at my question of "Would I be able to understand the teacher?" For those of you that don't know me and haven't picked up on the subtle clues I've left in my posts, I'm hard-of-hearing. So it's often a concern of mine if a new teacher or even new people will be easy for me to understand or not. Granted, I did utilize captionists for my first class but this was my first time using this kind of technology.

Before when I was in college, I had used sign language interpreters and notetakers. But I decided to try this new technology so I could compare what I liked best. Considering that I was going to be in a program with the word "technology" in its name, I felt I owed it to myself to try it out. After trial and error, I found that I prefer a combination of using an interpreter and a captionist usually. In addition, I also tried using a voice captionist which is even newer technology which hasn't been perfected yet but it was exciting to be the first student here at PCC to utilize such services. Basically, with this technology, the captionist speaks into a voice box and it turns the spoken word into type onto a laptop. Even though voice recognition is nothing new, this device wasn't working up to what we hoped its potential would be.

Ironically enough, later on I ended up volunteering in a test/focus group on helping improve this new technology. Surprisingly, I was the only one in the group who had been exposed to using this technology before. But I was glad I was able to give feedback based on actual usage and not just as a test respondent.

In an effort to keep the post from getting much longer, I will elaborate more on the other questions as I will continue next Tuesday. But a few quick answers for you. I enjoyed LIB 101 thoroughly and would probably have to say it was one of my favorite classes in the program. I was quite sad when it had to come to an end. I was able to manage the workload in spite of having a full-time job by using a few hours of accrued vacation time every week to do homework, projects, and studying. I have been blessed in that I have made many new friends in coming back to school. As for the last question, tune in on Tuesday.

Reflections - Part 1

As I ponder graduating from the Library Technology Program, I can honestly say, "Never, say never." Even though I had made the decision many years ago never to come back to school unless it were purely for fun, here I have been since Fall 2007. "How did she get here?" is a question that may cross your mind.

I had known for quite some time that I needed and desired a new job, preferably an actual career. I had gotten a B.A. in English that seemed to be collecting dust while I usually worked simple data entry jobs which allowed me to do all those mom things with my kids that I wanted to. After enduring the world of medical billing which lasted a total of 6 1/2 long years, I had been tossing a few ideas in my head but none seemed the perfect fit.

Less than a month before the Fall 2007 semester began, a close friend/mentor/graduate of the PCC Lib Tech Program, Terry Cannon, knowing of my dilemna suggested that I take LIB 101 just to see if it would be something I might be interested in. Even though he admitted that he started out with Mrs. Kim's LIB 104 class, he said that LIB 101 would give me a wonderful overview of the library world. Indeed, it did but more on that later.

Naturally, I had a list of objections and obstacles. I really didn't relish the idea of homework, studying, worrying about grades, deadlines, group projects, all those things that go hand in hand with academia. But Terry persisted. He called me quite a few times to see if I had gone down to PCC to enroll and register as time was ticking away. I looked online to see how many spots were still available about two weeks before classes begun and the numbers were dwindling with every day. As you can see, I was considering it but all those obstacles!

He still had the textbook which he so kindly offered to loan me. Economics was still an issue as I really didn't have the money as a struggling single mom to pay for even one class. When a fellow co-worker found out that I was thinking about maybe going back to school too, she told me about applying for a fee waiver. Also, with my 2 kids being in college and last year of high school respectively, I felt like I had no more excuses to not at least give it a try. So I trudged down to the grounds of this community college and did all the necessary paperwork.

Was I nervous? In so many different ways! I'm glad I couldn't remember all the reasons I was so glad I was done with college the first time else I probably really wouldn't have come back. Tune back in on Wednesday, January 14 for the next installment of my reflections.

Europeana - Online Library, Museum and Archives

Americans do have a problem. We tend to forget we are not the only people on the planet. It does help that we have Canada to the north and Mexico to the south but still, we need to work on expanding our world education, awareness and perspective.

He is an opportunity to make amends by introducing you to Europeana. This is a a combination library, museum and cultural archive for Europe. This is a good news, bad news and great news story.

The good news is in November 2008 10 million people an hour tried to visit the site. The bad news is that they crashed three distinct servers. As of January 3, 2009 the site is still down. You can visit the Europeana Developer's page to learn more about the project. I will update this page when the site becomes fully functional.


The great news is that there is a massive hunger for this type of information and research. If you build it they will come. This will be a multilingual search into the culture, history and societies of the continent of Europe.

It is an ambitious undertaking. This will not just be the antiquities of old but views into European societies, race relations, health, television and the various rolls that prisons played in the society. In the meantime, check out the developer site and the video. It think it will be worth the wait.

Recap of UNT/CSUN MLS Information Session

The information session held in CSU Northridge's Delmar T. Oviatt Library presentation room was attended by about 15 eager and aspiring Librarians. One gentleman said that he has been waiting "years" for a Master's program to begin at CSUN. Several people, including myself, expressed their disappointment last year, when CSUN's initial Master's program was denied ALA accreditation. Needless to say, there was an air of excitement in the room as Dr. Susan Curzon introduced herself and University of North Texas' program advisor and past dean Dr. Phil Turner. Dr. Turner made it clear from the get-go that this is the "best time in history" to be pursuing a Master's Degree in librarianship due to the upcoming retirement of up to 50% of all librarians within the next 5-10 years.

Important Info:

- ALA Accredited for 60 years
- 90% Graduation rate
- Culminates in an MLS degree (not an MLIS) from UNT
- 12 proscribed courses chosen by UNT, CSUN and LA library leaders
- GRE or the MAT (Miller's Analogy Test must be taken
- Cost will NOT increase during the course of the cohort
- Financial aid and scholarships are available

Program highlights:

- SLIS Village -
A place to connect with all the UNT MLS students across the country.
- Capstone Experience -
Like a thesis/portfolio required by other programs
- Practicum -
Required for the MLS (can be waived with 60 hrs paid library work)
- Graduate Academic Certificate -
In Advanced Management in Libraries and Information Centers

In my opinion, this is a great opportunity for students who wish to focus in Library Management. Students have the opportunity to meet with peers to study because everyone will live the greater Los Angeles area. The fact that CSUN Professors will be accessible in office hours is a plus. The graduation ceremony will be on the CSUN campus. Overall, I would recommend that if you are interested apply! Deadlines are February 15, 2009 for the first draft of 20 slots and then April 1, for the second 20 admittances.

For more info see: UNT Catalog Page for SLIS

Volunteer and Play It Foward Saturday October 11th and 12th

I know this is short notice if you didn't get Krista's e-mail. Here is the text:

We are collecting used books to give to several locations in Pasadena...one or more Elementary schools, one Middle, one High School Library and several classroom libraries. These books are going to be delivered to Lake Avenue Church this Saturday Evening (5:30 - 7:00 PM) and Sunday 9 AM - 3PM.

Also... we would love to have some assistance in our libraries that are receiving these books to help them get processed and on the shelves. So that is actually another need that will go beyond just this coming weekend.

I am looking for volunteers with some library experience to assist in receiving these books and making a rough sort or even more detailed sort if we have the personnel.

The times are listed above and if anyone could give me a couple of hours of more that would be so appreciated. If you know of anyone who might be interested they can contact Judy Boehr.

New MLIS Program on the Block

If you're applying for an MLIS program in the near future, consider looking at the newest MLIS program at CSUN (California State University, Northridge) in conjunction with University of North Texas that will be starting class sessions in Fall 2009. This special program will admit a group of post-baccalaureate working adults (limited to a maximum of 40 students per cohort) who wish to move up in the field of library management or who wish to transition into library and information management. There will be a strong emphasis on the challenges and opportunities that are distinctive to the management of libraries and library collections and services in the diverse urban context of greater L.A. and Ventura.

There are four upcoming informational sessions held the beginning of October at three different locations.

Monday, October 6 - 6pm
Glendale Public Library
222 E. Harvard St.
Auditorium, 2nd floor
Glendale, CA 91205
(818) 548-2030

Tuesday, October 7 - 3 and 6pm
CSUN Oviatt Library
18111 Nordhoff St.
Northridge, CA 91330
(818) 677-2271

Oviatt Library Presentation Room - Enter from 1st floor of library.
Parking is $5 - Visitor Parking in Lot B4

Wednesday, October 8 - 1:30-3:00pm
Calabasas Library
200 Civic Center Way
Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 225-7616

For more program information and online application materials, visit: www.unt.edu/slis.
Questions- contact: Dr. Phil Turner at pturner@unt.edu.

(Thanks to Kristen Annes for passing on this information!)

Arizona Uses School Aids Replace Librarians

Because of Arizona state budget cuts Arizona elementary, middle and high school librarians were transferred out of the school libraries. Some were placed in school classrooms. Many of the librarians choose to retire instead.

School Aids, not necessarily trained or certified Library Technicians/Paraprofessionals, will take over the duties of running the school libraries. There is discussion about having the aids take a library technology certification program at Mesa Community College but as it stands now there is no formal training.

You can read the news story at the Arizona Republic website. In addition please read some of the comments. There are folks that believe because there is access to the Internet that librarians are no longer needed. There are other people who make a good case that search has become much more complicated and you need trained professionals to access quality and reliable information.

Zotero - Reference Manager for Your Browser

Oh the joy, the rapture. I would have paid for it if I had know where to find it. Zotero, where have you been all my life? I learned about this little beauty from the InfoLit ListServ and I have plugged it in for immediate use.

Zotero is a reference manager add-in for Firefox, Netscape and Flock browsers. Yes, you Microsoft Internet Explorer folks are temporarily locked out of this goody. You add the plug in to your browser and then re-start.

You will be able to cite all kinds of material from just about anyway you travel on or off the Net. Books from WorldCat, MP3 and podcast, presentations, webcasts, journals, articles and more. You can copy and past your reference notes and export what you need as a RTF, HTML or even paper format. It is the merger of the best of the old reference techniques and new information management in one package.

All this and it is free.  Free and well documented. There is a demo on the front page that give an overview of the product. There is also a page of screencast tutorials that show you the basic function of how to use Zotero.

After losing all of my bookmarks/favorites not to mention the daily research I do just snooping around the Internet I needed a better way to log my travels. It is becoming increasingly important that we all have to start documenting our sources and find what we need quickly.  Not just for library staff but bloggers, writers, journalists or others who transfer thoughts to a fixed format.

I'm giving it a test run and if there are hick-ups I'll let you know but so far it is quarter past slick.

I feel you pain Mircrosofties so I'll see if I can find an equivalent product for you I.E. folks.

Scholarship - Jack Hom Scholarship for Library Studies

If you are library tech student or a librarian student who would be interested in working with the Chinese community you have until March 28, 2008 to apply for the Jack Hom Scholarship for Library Studies.

The Jack Hom Scholarship Endowment will award one annual scholarship of $2,000 to an AA or MA student in the field of Library Studies with a demonstrated interest and involvement in serving the Chinese or Chinese-American Library community.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be presently enrolled as an AA, Library Technician or MA, Library Sciences student.
  
• Have a minimum 3.5 GPA in your Library Studies classes.
• Submit a completed application package, including

1. Application Form
2. Personal statement of 500 to 600 words.
3. Copies of all college transcripts to date (in a sealed envelope with the school stamp across the seal).

Deadline: Complete application package must be received at the Chinatown Library postmarked no later than Friday, March 28, 2008.

Application package should be mailed to:

Jack Hom Scholarship for Library Studies
Friends of the Chinatown Library
Chinatown Branch Library
639 N. Hill Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Science Podcasts - The Questions You Want To Ask

There comes a time in every parents life when the little darlings ask "the question" Questions like:

• What is concrete made of?
• Why can't we drink seawater?
• Why do fireflies glow?

Some parents will bring the little darlings to the library. Now there are specialized books for kids that answer questions like "Why is the sky blue?" or "Is there monkey in the monkey bread?" But it never hurts to have access to places that might have a quick answer for you.

BASF Chemical Reporter is a fun way to bone up on science questions and answers. The delivery is accurate and humorous and no explanation last longer than 4 minutes.

Along the same lines is Science Update produced by the The American Association for the Advancement of Science. The online podcasts are 60 seconds of science trivia and fun facts like how a certain type of butterfly gets ants to raise their young, animal grandparents and listener questions like "How far away do you have to live to have an accent change?" I found that diving into the archives expanded the number of podcasts subjects and you could spend a good hour catching up on science news. Bonus points for providing transcripts of audio podcasts!

There is also Science Magazine Podcasts that vary between 15 - 60 minutes in length. These are drawn from the magazine and you will hear news and science stories that you are not going to encounter on the radio or PBS. Stories like the New Horizon probe, research on chronic itch and stereotyping of minorities in science education. Transcripts are available via an Adobe PDF download.

Science Update lead me to Slacker Astronomy. Nothing slacker about this. This is hard core love of astronomy, cosmology, star stuff and they do sling the lingo in the podcasts. This is way beyond Astronomy 101 but if you just relax and listen you are going to pick up the enthusiasm the speakers have about the topic. If you want to know what Dark Matter is this is your place.

So there you have it. Listen live or download to your media player of choice.