Libraries and Podcasts

After creating a podcast for the recent class assignment, I can truly say ... that it is FUN! (I usually don't blog in CAPS but this assignment was cool.) I am partially wondering if there are libraries that have positions open just for this! How cool would that be? Enough of my excitement rant. Let's get to the real topic.

I did a search for "libraries podcast" and came up with a few library sites. It seems that most libraries use these podcasts as an instructional medium. I think that's a great idea. Not only do they provide another entry point to the library, but they also provide an opportunity to reach out to other communities in their areas. For instance, these podcasts may appeal to the visually impaired community, just like text instructions would appeal to the hearing impaired community.

I am sure that most libraries have a target audience (that has nothing to do with disabilities), however, by providing information in various formats libraries can optimize their outreach. I am not naive. I'm sure that many students of podcasting academic libraries have no idea that these resources exist. I do hope that as librarians continue to use emerging technologies and that students begin to expect these podcasts.

The only drawback I can think of with podcasts is that they take time. You have to outline what works best in audio. For instance, a library's newsletter may have to be reworded for a podcast. Each format needs a different adaptation of the message to be effective. There needs to be a team or committee working together or designated librarians. If not, we will see inconsistencies in the amount of podcasts and when they are done.

I don't think podcasts will replace newsletters, calendars, etc. I think it is just another way of getting the information out there.
  

Module 4 Podcasts Give Virtual Reference a New Meaning

My podcast is a reader's advisory for adults with young children. The podcasts answers a reference question providing listeners with book choices appropriate for their children's reading level. This podcast promotes the use of local libraries. It is meant as another bridge between communities and their libraries.

Prezi and PPT: Bromance or frienemies?

Bromance
PowerPoint and Prezi both have the distinct ability to showcase a topic. They are both designed for presentations. In my opinion, they both take the same amount of time to learn and use. They also require a preconceived finished product. You need to have some idea of the end result to complete a project on either one.

I don't believe PowerPoint or Prezi cater to a specific age group. If they do, it's probably the same age group. Both PowerPoint and Prezi require practice and patience. You can be as creative as your imagination allows.

Frienemies
I think both PowerPoint and Prezi were intended for the same purpose. This is the reason they might be frienemies. They are competing with each other. More people may know how to use PowerPoint than Prezi, however, the concepts are the same. Prezi could easily do the same things done by PowerPoint.

Prezi has an advantage. It is online and cloud computing is very convenient. Of course, Microsoft has joined up with MSN and created a cloud computing alternative. However, users need to create an MSN account and there is an issue with back compatibility. In my opinion, it is easier to upload a presentation in google docs.

It is your prerogative. They can be in a bromance or they could be frienemies. I think it might be a little bit of both.