Reading Notes for 9/20/2010

1)      Machtelt Garrels. “Introduction to Linux: A Hands on Guide” (only need to read section 1, but you are welcome to read the whole document) http://tldp.org/LDP/intro-linux/html/

Based on the reading, the Linux program seems to be one of the most flexible pieces of software to date.  It is adaptable, fixable, and can be adapted toward various circumstances.  I think the strongest advantage of Linux is its ability to supply maintenance and updates. Thus, it could very well span beyond the academic realms and penetrate into the mainstream/public settings.  As librarians, it will be essential to utilize this technology so that customers use it to its full potential. 

2)      http://www.kernelthread.com/mac/osx/  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mac_OS_X

Based on the above readings, I was amazed at the level of the features that the "MAC OS X" has.  For example, "Apple Graphical User Interface (GUI)" seems to produce interesting graphic like images with water based elements.  Also, "The User Interface Guidelines" might be helpful for first time users, or novices like me, who are just learning about this.  I also think the "Automator" could be helpful so that I can better organize tasks with deadlines. 

3)      Paul Thurott “An Update on the Windows Roadmap” http://community.winsupersite.com/blogs/paul/archive/2008/06/27/an-update-on-the-windows-roadmap.aspx

I currently use Windows Vista which had compatibility problems that this article points out they are fixed in the new version of windows titled "Windows 7".  Whenever an update to Windows takes place that also means an update to the Office programs is expected.  The author outlines that the compatibility options supported in Windows will allow for example a user using Windows XP to read documents that were designed using "Windows 7" until 2014. Thus, whenever Microsoft creates a new system it puts into account allowing users with older Windows operating system, to still read documents from updated Office systems. 

Reading Notes for 9/13

Computer Hardware: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_hardware

This article breaks down the various components of computer hardware.  Throughout my experiences, I have focused more on software more than hardware computer.  However, based on this article, I am noticing that there is a direct connection between hardware and software.  For example, without "Power Supply," no software can perform without the electrical frequencies to supplement that.  Also for example a "Sound Card" enables the computer to output audio devices.  Elements such as these are vital for a librarian to understand in order to be able to utilize them to the best extent possible.

1)      Moore’s Law: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore's_law also the video http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=what-is-moores-law

The above article outlines the various transmissions that are required for a computer and/or digital resource to function.  Elements such as processing, memory capacity, etc represent these transmissions.  I learned from this article, that the more sophisticated the hardware is, the more transmission and frequency is transmitted through the software, since there is more capability to do this. 

2)      Computer History Museum. http://www.computerhistory.org/ 

This website offers both historical and current information regarding the state of computers.  Learning computer history can provide a framework for those that are new to the digital age.  I think it would be important for any librarian to visit this museum in California.  It would be also vital to see physical examples that show how computers evolved throughout the years. I also think that learning about the historical implications will allow a librarian to better teach new computer users these basic elements. 

Reading Notes for 8/30/2010

OCLC report: Information format: content, not containers (2004)

http://www.oclc.org/reports/2004format.htm

This report lays out the top trends in content and what they may mean for libraries in the next five years:

• Legitimacy of open-source publishing (e.g. blogs)
• Rapidly expanding economics of microcontent
• Repurposing of "old" content for new media
• Multimedia content as a service for an array of portable devices

The report also explores the next challenge, providing context to content with tools such as contextual searching. It includes interactive example on contextual searching which is based on the static illustration within this report.

The contextual searching allows retrieval of materials in different formats through searching within three categories: Library, e-bookstore and online searching.

1)      Clifford Lynch, “Information Literacy and Information Technology Literacy: New Components in the Curriculum for a Digital Culture

 www.cni.org/staff/cliffpubs/info_and_IT_literacy.pdf

The author focuses on two fundamental factors of "Information Technology Literacy"; outlining that those basic skills, such as word processing, using a spreadsheet, etc are essential.  However, there is a new trend that librarians should have strong familiarity with the new technological advances that would have an impact on society.  The author points out how technology has evolved from basic word processing skills of the 1980's and states that basic typing skills will not be sufficient in today's technological market. Finally, the author concludes that gaining advanced technological skills is imperative for any librarian who must have good understanding of not only computer functioning, but also ways in which these technologies can be utilized in serving all library patrons. 
Vaughan, J. (2005). Lied Library @ four years: technology never stands still. Library Hi Tech, 23(1), 34-49. At http://www.emeraldinsight.com/Insight/ViewContentServlet;jsessionid=C5A0E976F56F442F9919082BF1F79360?Filename=Published/EmeraldFullTextArticle/Articles/2380230105.html

     In the above article, the author discusses how the evolution of technology through his experience in academic library creates more challenges.  Through maintaining current information systems and establishing new information systems, the examples not only pertain to an academic level but also at the public level.  The average library customer, such as many elderly customers have had a hard enough time understanding previous windows operating systems.  Introducing new systems, even for younger generations, can create many challenges and adjustments.  The challenge is to create a learning system which is universal, yet, caters to various skill levels of information technology; basic, advanced, etc.  Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, this type of information can be fiscally problematic.