Skype-o-phobe

As a “power librarian” I never considered myself afraid of technology until today. We have a 2-hour delay and my in-laws are here. They came down to breakfast this morning and found me listening to a podcast. That prompted an explanation of podcasting. Since the podcast (guess I should really be using the term netcast) I was listening to was of a live netcast that used Skype to call into the program, I had to explain Skype which is where my techno-fear comes in… I am Skype-o-phobic. I have a copy downloaded on my desktop but I have never used it. Why haven’t I? It’s because I am afraid. I don’t know exactly how to use it so it is easier not to use it. Now I know how other teachers in my building feel about the SMART Board. I am lucky, the SMART Board is in my library and I can play around on it to find out how it works. But what about Skype? I think that is a different story. I can play around on the SMART Board when no one is looking or listening. Skype is out there for all to use and call… who do I Skype with that will be understanding of a newbie? Hopefully, I can get someone to show me how to use Skype to allay my fears and I will show teachers in my building how to use the SMART Board to allay their fears. That is the way it has to be with technology… we have to help each other so that we can become technology and information literate. Technology is not something I should be afraid of… it is a tool… I shouldn’t be afraid of tools! The students in my building are not afraid of technology and I should not be either. Skype away!... who knows where it will lead… maybe my own netcast! Consider the technological possibilities.

Juvenile Series & Sequels Database

Many thanks to the bookdragon (http://thebookdragon.blogspot.com/) for turning me on to this wonderful website that tells the names of books in a series. I won't have to falter when one of my students asks me which book comes third in the Artemis Fowl series. (Yes, even PowerLibrarians can falter when put on the spot!) Now I don't have to worry, I can bring up this website, check it out for myself and give the student an answer quickly. The site is:

http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us/readers/series/juv/

Mid-Continent Public Library is responsible for the site and I applaud them for their effort. It makes finding a series much easier. No matter which jobber I choose to use, this database will help with book selection. It also gives definitions for the audiences that the books in the database are geared toward. Since these are audiences I deal with, I will be using this site often and will recommend it to parents, teachers and students. Again... thanks bookdragon.

Last Day of Library Classes

It is hard to believe that I have finished my first year as an elementary school librarian. Today was the last day of library classes. It seems like I just opened the library and now it is the end of the school year. It all seems like a blur. It is now time for assessment. Assessment of myself as a librarian. So far all I see are the things I have not done. After I get all the books put away and back in order I will take some time and do a comprehensive self evaluation.

www.powerlibrarian.blogspot.com

Valentine's Day- Day 1

This is my first attempt at a blog. It is a little strange having my thoughts published for the world to see. So, if you are viewing this, know that what you are seeing are the published thoughts of a fledgling librarian and blogger. Hopefully, I will grow in both and the novice will learn to be as the name of this blog suggests a PowerLibrarian! In the meantime, I will continue to post to this site as I learn and grow in my new profession.
Just Me,
Jan
:-)