Podcasts

Yes, I have actually used these before :) in real life (as opposed to web 2.0 life).  I have worked in a couple of libraries which have used pod casting for various uses.  One  academic  library used them for a walking tour of the library, which was very useful for new students (and staff).  I also had to learn to use an ipod that day, which was educational, but once we found the tiny little buttons which were cleverly disguised not to stand out, was actually quite logical and worked like a tape player or CD player for those of you who are younger :)

Another academic library used them for lectures.  Come to think of it, I have listened to those lectures myself as a student.  (change hats) which was good as I couldn't get to the real things.

Public libraries, hm... more fun stuff I suppose, author talks or special events could be podcast, although we need to be very careful of privacy issues.  Sorry, can't think of anything more creative than that.  If I think of anything at Midnight, I shall  add it to  another blog, (not a t Midnight), which will then make no sense at all unless you read sequentially like us fuddy duddies.   Which reminds me, I am actually really enjoying reading the other blogs (sequentially of course) - I think that is one of the most enjoyable parts of this course - but then as I said earlier I am a reader not a writer). 

What would I subscribe to?  I was actually quite interested in the Scientific American pod casts and the ABC pod casts (neither very library related).  Unfortunately I couldn't get on the the Curtin one, there seemed to be an issue with that.  Also many of the pod casts were an hour or more long and although we are encouraged to do this, I just can't justify spending so long on them, so while I browsed the library sites I didn't spend long there.   I did e mail one to myself at home to listen to in real life - if I get a chance over Christmas.  Perhaps there is a message for us in that.  Maybe some of the shorter pod casts would be good for libraries, for those who have shorter attention spans, or are time poor (possibly the same people).   I think there is a need for a range as libraries also attract those who are bored or money poor but time rich as well.  We need as always to cater to a range of needs and styles.

XXX Harry