Week 7: Wikis

I completed Thing #16 by reviewing the various Wiki links provided and found some interesting and some a little boring. The layout seems to be more basic and less flashy - so I guess I compare them to web pages even though they are different in how they gain content. I like the idea of patrons/people being able to add content but would have some concerns about deletions or malicious usage. But - to be focus on the positive - it can be a wonderful way to allow patrons (thinking of library land here) to create content and comment on things of interest.

I really liked the Charlotte and Mecklenburg Counties Library Wiki on "core Competencies". They do so much there that is just cool. The page was clearly created and organized. The content was helpful and of interest. The WIKI on Library Success was also of interest to me personally. I really enjoy the idea of this running dialogue between staff and their library - where they can comment and have an arena to share ideas as well as successes. Princeton's Public Library was also nice with the Book Lovers Wiki - I thought of HCPL's Blog-A-Book where we have this concept in place now.

I found the ALA Wiki with New Orleans to be loaded with content but it was too much for me to scan. Almost information overload and I did not like the presentation of the Wiki. The information was helpful and would be of use to conference attendees but it just did not click for me.

As for library applications - I think libraries could use Wiki's in many diverse and interesting ways. Providing updates on programs, comments from patrons on library programs we offer or they would like to see, computer DIY courses for patrons, tips on doing library research, book comments and reviews, guides for teachers to databases and information for students. It seems like there could be many avenues to explore.

To complete Thing #17 - I went and played in the Sandbox Wiki and posted my blog to the list. Here is a link to the small posting I did to just get a feel for the process - not very exciting but it will be fun to go back and improve upon it. I thought it was really easy to create the content and post it - very friendly to use.
Novel Ideas Wiki