Web 2.0

Rick Anderson's article was interesting and I agree that much of our print reference resources need to go. I also agree with his "one button commands" idea for user-friendly service. He states that libraries neet to integrate their services into the daily patterns of work, study and play, but doesn't offer any suggestions.

Michael Stephen's article seemed vague to me. I understand, however, his need to not purchase technology just because it is new, and I like his rather democratic way of determining what technology to purchase.

Chip Nilges discusses WorldCat which should be of great interest to all of us. Once WorldCat gets rolling, Inter-Library loan will take on a whole new meaning.

John Riemer kinda lost me, but then again, my eye glaze over when cataloging is mentioned.

Wendy Schultz makes it clear that 2.0 will not be the end all be all of technology.

My conclusion after reading these articles in regards to rural areas is as follows:

None of this technology amounts to a hill of beans unless high speed is offered to rural areas. Once outside the towns in Caroline County (and even in some towns), citizens are stuck in the dark ages of dial-up. This effectively eliminates them from anything mentioned in the articles. It is a real problem that should be addressed by government and the internet service providers. A modern day version of the rural electrification project of the 40's and 50's should be offered by both to provide vital high speed access to all of this technology. Could this happen anytime soon? With the current administration in Washington, two words sum it up: fat chance

Del.icio.us

I just created a Del.icio.us account and though it is a simple one at this point, I like the tool.

• easy to set up an account
• easy to tag favorite websites/blogs
• easy to read format
• faster and quicker access than a traditional bookmark and the icon is easy to see on your toolbar.

To the technologically challenged, it is a new and easy way to bookmark. It has many more features than that however, and I'm just beginning to explore it.