Reading notes for 9/27/2010

1)      Data Compression. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_compression

I found Data de-duplication to be interesting.  Based on this information, a computer can instantaneously eliminate duplicated data. I was wondering if there is a way to manually utilize this function.  I know “Defragmentation” to be a method.  But, was wondering if there is a more detailed manner to find and eliminate data manually. 

2)      Data compression basics (long documents, but covers all basics and beyond): http://dvd-hq.info/data_compression_1.php

It seems like the main idea data compression is to store more data in a centralized location, thus reducing overall space on the hard drive.  In order to do this effectively, it seems as though one would need to understand various coding techniques in order to create this type of space.  Financially speaking, I think this would save libraries a lot of money if more information can be stored within fewer computers, from an administration standpoint.  Also technologically speaking, data stored on public computers in libraries might not need to be changed frequently, as this would reduce a computer crashing, delay slow startups, and reduce delayed searches. 

3)      Edward A. Galloway, “Imaging Pittsburgh: Creating a shared gateway to digital image collections of the Pittsburgh region” First Monday 9:5 2004 http://www.firstmonday.org/issues/issue9_5/galloway/index.html

From looking at the pictures and reading the article, it looks like digital imaging is one of the prime methods of historic preservation.  Unfortunately, physical copies of material found in libraries could disintegrate over time.  In order to preserve the past, and more importantly, our local history, digital image collections can provide a gateway for the present to intertwine with the past, and act as a medium for a more instant and hands on look at historical artifacts. However, I think it is also important to preserve the original versions as a physical artifact to the next generations through conservation methods.

4)      Paula L. Webb, YouTube and libraries: It could be a beautiful relationship C&RL News, June 2007 Vol. 68, No. 6 http://www.ala.org/ala/acrl/acrlpubs/crlnews/backissues2007/jun07/youtube.cfm

           I agree that YouTube and libraries could be a beautiful relationship. I think the use of  YouTube in
libraries will support strong marketing and outreach programs, library  instructional services, and much more in the future.