Module 5: Google World

Now I'm on familiar territory, almost familial! I've been 'googling' since first touching a computer in a library. Information through the Google search engine is limitless. I haven't made Google my home page, as I remain loyal to http://www.ninemsn.com/, but I do have an iGoogle account, through which I established this blog. I've just added an artistic 'theme' as background; one created by Rolf Harris, who in turn has an interesting website at http://www.rolfharris.com/. Also, I'm offered a 'gadget' in the form of a spider, which appears from nowhere and wanders over the screen in response to the mouse. Quite realistic! Kids' stuff really, but I enjoy it! I've also taken the opportunity to add a 'news alert' to my account to keep me informed on a certain news issue, via email.

E-Books and Overdrive

The most exciting section of Web2.0 to date. I wonder how Yarra Plenty Regional Library became involved with Brisbane City Council Library Services in a Download Collection of books. The idea of Overdrive Downloadable Media is new to me and I can't get involved with it soon enough. My experience of audio books is limited to overnight recordings on ABC local radio. The prospect of downloading books, music and videos is fantastic and the Digital Media Guided Tour provides help for the 'newest user'.


Reading aloud to my child was one of my favourite pastimes and relinquished with regret when he learned to read. The discovery at http://www.librivox.org/ promises to be an eventful one. LibriVox was established in 2005 and the website is up-to-date! It provides free audiobooks from the public domain and offers an opportunity to volunteer to record chapters of books in the public domain. Would I like to? What a silly question. I think I'm in overdrive. Another possibility for indulgence comes at http://www.bookmooch.com/ which offers the opportunity to exchange books over the internet.

StumbleUpon Podcasts!

http://www.stumbleupon.com/ webcast site seems to most aptly describe my web experience to date! It proves to be a comprehensive site occupied by some 5,864,250 Stumblers with seemingly unlimited access to any subject. Also of interest to this expat. is http://www.news.bbc.uk/ which offers a 1 min. news summary. http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/ has a page on What are podcasts? and 'delivers new files to one's computer, usually at no cost.'

YouTube

Reminds me of now obsolete slide-shows of holidays. Fancy sharing them with the whole world! Searching my old home town, came across a protest about high-rise development in the area. Comments tend to be puerile. Don't have to read 'em! Can appreciate why librarians like 'Conan'.

Module 4: Podcasts, Video & Downloadable Audio

I've had this video on my desktop for ages. It is a rare insight into the bonds that can be established between humans and other animals! Brightens my day when I'm feeling blue. Hope it lifts you up a little also.

Module 3: LibraryThing

LibraryThing is definitely not to be compared to sliced bread. It is sheer heaven! As an avid reader since childhood, and not having access to all my books, titles and authors of some of which elude me, I am re-united with best loved books and can see them arranged on my bookshelf. At http://www.librarything.com/ it is so easy to join and then the world of books is your oyster. Since there are only 10 days left to complete the Web2 programme I''ll have to return to this website ASAP.

Image URL copied courtesy of Friendster profile editor

Sunset over Glenelg, South Australia

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Originally uploaded by Hedda Gabler

My first attempt at Flickr. Has taken me hours to blog my photo entry! I couldn't believe it when I was invited to Blog this photo. Eureka! I get immense satisfaction when something works out for me and urge any intrepid library members like myself to 'give a Taste of Web 2.0 a bash. It's worth it. Don't be afraid to enter the World of the Internet. The sky will definitely not fall in!