library technologies

Part A.

Blogs--brief web pages, frequently updated, in chronological order. Although not objective, they can be used by libraries for sharing information, tracking projects, for newsletters and working with communities, promoting events and for marketing purposes.

Podcast--a digital media file on the web that is shared using syndication feeds and played back on portable players like ipods and/or computers. It uses audio and/or video over the Internet as a webcast; essentially it is broadcasting on the Internet. Libraries can use this technology to record programs and tours, present news, reports, market services, and connect with the community at large.

RSS--Really Simple Syndication, Rich Site Summary, RDF Site Summary. It's an XML-based format for syndicating Web content. Used to frequently update digital content RSS delivers content through RSS feeds. Users click the RSS logo (aggregator/feed reader) software and input their address then updates are sent automatically without request. Libraries can use RSS to stay updated on particular articles on Internet sites, alert users of new hours, services and acquisitions, or connect them to other blogs of interest. Many libraries already use RSS.

Open URL resolver--is the linking capability that makes the OpenURL a useful tool. It has the "knowledge base and rule set" to process the OpenURL message uniquely to a given library. This allows a library to increase its resources by pointing to additional targets such as databases, full-text, and catalogs; connecting users from the article they want to full-text with print options in one step. Very user friendly for students.

RFID--radio frequency identification is a microchip that provides a noncontact method of identifying materials. Chips are placed in an item allowing fast, easy scanning. Libraries can use them for inventory control, automatic circulation, update patron records, etc.

Adaptive technologies--increase or improve functional capabilities of people with disabilities. Hardware devices might include modified mouse pointers, keyboards and Braille devices. There are many software products that address different disabilities such as programs enabling the visually impaired. Libraries use these technologies to make their services available to the wider community enabling them to use educational materials, read Web pages, and assist in comprehension, learning and memory skills.

Part B.

One technology that could most improve libraries for librarians is the use of RFID tags. While it is problematic with the issue of patron confidentiality and the collection of sensitive information, I have no doubt that with continued focus on technological development, this problem will become a thing of the past. For libraries, especially those working short-staffed (which is most of us) the use of RFID tags has the potential for saving money and time. Use of the tags could provide security (replacing tattle-strips) as well as information about the item itself. They could save time too, as tags can be read through book covers and video/DVD cases. Tags can also be read while in motion, so for large libraries, materials being returned via conveyer belts, check in is still fast and accurate. Inventory could also be completed quickly and easily without materials being removed from shelves. Some fear staff will be eliminated with the use of RFID tags, but as always with the advancement of other developing technology used in libraries, librarians and other library staff will be necessary to learn and educate students and the public in general on how to continue accessing library materials; physically moving materials around is a small part of library work.

One set of technologies that could most improve libraries for patrons are the adaptive technologies. In the computerized information age we cannot afford to skip any segment of the population for who knows where the next best advancement to our society will come from. These technologies give special support to those with some type of disability, dramatically increasing their capabilities. Some software programs scan text and highlight in color, read the text to you, magnify the text, have built in dictionaries, will read the Internet to you as well as any other computer text. Some programs will typeas you dictate. They support people with reading difficulties, learning disabilities, low vision, attention difficulties, those who are learning languages or who are learning to read. They help senior citizens read or listen to text. Other programs help you navigate any computer environment, reading all screen information to you, or have talking keyboards. Closed circuit television enlarges books and magazines. Some hardware address specific limitations such as modified mouse pointers and Braille devices. As libraries promote reading and further education that ultimately benefit communities and the greater society, adaptive technologies are a must.