Greening the Library

Antonelli, Monika. 2008. The Green Library Movement : an overview and beyond. Retrieved on October 1, 2009 at http:// search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a3h&AN=36655863&site=ehost-live

Abstract of the article :
The Green Library Movement has been in existence for over 15 years.The movement emerged in the early 1990s and gained popularity in the library profession in 2003. It's two objectives are a.) To make librarians and others more aware of diverse environmental information sources.b.)To recognize environmental concerns within libraries and seek solutions to them. It is comprised of a growing number of librarians, libraries, cities, towns, college and university campuses committed to greening libraries by reducing their environmental impact on the planet. This innovation is happening by building green libraries and embracing environmentally supportive practices within the library.

Lessons Learned :

1. The term " green" is defined as pertaining to, or supporting environmentalism while the term "sustainable" relates to forms of human economic activity and culture that do not lead to environmental degradation, especially avoiding the long term depletion of natural resources.
2. There are several reasons why libraries would want to build green or incorporate green features into their buildings. First, the cost of constructing green buildings has become affordable. Second, most readily available energy resources are definite resources. It is important to our health and to our planet and in our libraries' budgets that we use these energy sources wisely.
3. The role of the library is to serve it's community. Communities needs libraries and librarians to act as role models for sustainability by providing accurate information on all manners of green topics to renewable energy options.

Reflection / Impact to work:

The time is right for librarians to support and continue to grow the Green Library Movement. We all agree that planet earth is under stress. "Global Warming" is certain and that human activity is very likely causing most of rise in temperatures and undetermine climate changes. This means people and institutions will need to change their behaviors so we can begin repairing the planet. For librarians and staff members interested in adopting green practices such as recycling in libraries. A simple green step that libraries can do for the health of the planet and their employees is to quit using toxic chemical cleaners and adopt environmentally friendly cleaning products. Our library for example we used to collect to the faculty all used bond papers from term paper of students then we try to recycle them. During community services we collect empty bottled and old newspaper in these manners we're trying to save our mother earth.

Health concerns on computer use

Ross, Peggy E. 2008.Ergonomics : Improving safety in the laboratory environment. Retrieved on September 23, 2009 at http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1599441801&Fmt=3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the article :

The article identify all ergomonie stressors that influence risk for a particular job. Cited examples are laboratory jobs, they varied and may include the use of microscopes, fumehoods, chemicals, pipettes, flasks, glove boxes, automated analyzers, compressed gases, computers and similar equipment . They enumerated stressors that workers experienced with corresponding tips on how to avoid or lessened stress and how to work comfortably through proper evaluation of furniture or tools while on the job. Understanding the concepts of general ergonomics and how they translate to the lab environment provides the foundation for a solid ergonomic program. A strong ergonomic program will protect lab workers and benefit the company.

Lessons Learned :

1. These are the things to consider in using computers especially those who really devoted their time in using computers on their job,a.) Keyboards should be placed to the worker's elbows at approximately 9 Q angle.b.) Monitors should be placed directly in front of the worker with the top of the monitor just below eye level to promote neutral neck posture.c.) Avoid placing the computer in a position where glare from the window reflects on the monitor screen or in the worker's eye.d.) The mouse should also be within easy reach.

2. It is important to identify all ergonomie stressors that influence risk for a particular job. Posture is another important consideration when evaluating the ergonomie stressors and determining the level of risk.

3. If a worker is experiencing a health problem such as fracture, diabetes or circulatory problems he/she is at greater risk of encountering pain or injury. Major ergonomie hazards include repetitive movement, excessive dynamic force, prolong statis force or posture; direct pressure and exposure to cold.

Implication to work :

As a librarian we cannot avoid the use of computers especially now in the age of technology. Computers serves as a tool in doing our work done especially in cataloging books and daily transactions to the library users. Let us always remember that were not making money to live or rather than we live just to make money in return we let our health suffer. As the saying goes " health is wealth" so to avoid unnecessary stress, pain, injuries, blurred visions consider the proper usage of computer. Proper posture is number one. If ever were experiencing uncomfortable use of computer don't be afraid to report it to our heads so that they could make proper action on it.

9th Reading Assignment : Rules of court on electronic evidence

Troy, Christopher L. "Electrifying" : Changes to the Federal Discovery Rules .[electronic version].The Brief 36 (3), 2007.

http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1405537601&Fmt+3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the artticle :

Issues concerning the preservation of electronic evidence continue to arise with increasing frequency. Until recently, courts have offered little guidance on this issue. The new rules should serve as a wake up call to attorneys and their clients, both of whom must now become familiar with the data storage systems and policies or risk violating the new rules. Sanctions may be imposed in the form of fines or depend upon jury instructions. Now many attorneys and judges posses a better understanding of computer and electronic documents. They are not so easily persuaded that deleted or corrupted data is unrecoverable.

Lessons learned:

1. Electronic records and information differ from hard copy records in several aspects. First, it is easier and more convenient to retain and retrieve informatio electronically than in hard copy.

2. Information stored electronically can be changed over time and may be falsify when separated from the system and or software through which it was created.

3. Electronically stored data is fast becoming relevant than paper evidence. The amended rules give the courts the flexibility to learn what is not accessible and what is not accesible.

Reflections /Impact from work:

The new trends in technology has fast spreading to everyone. Electronic devices is easily accessible to all this includes mobile phones, fax machines, internet through emails. As a librarian let us be a responsible user of electronic devices let's not abuse the use of it. Don't dwell in sending sexist jokes, pornographic pictures and offensive letters. Be careful in sending emails to others because this could be used against you in the future.

Open Source Software

Chuvnov, Daniel. What Librarians Still Don't Know About Free Sotware [Electronic version].Computer in Libraries 29 (2), Feb 2009. http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=169779181&Fmt=3&clientld=57020&RQT=309&VName=PQD

Abstract of the article:

Talking about open source software is about the freedom. It is not about the cost but the four aspects of freedom. These are the freedom to use the software for any purpose. The freedom to study how the software works, the freedom to modify the software to adapt it to your needs, and the freedom to copy and share copies of the software, with or without any vhanges you might make to it. These freedoms are enshrined in free software and open source licenses which use copyright law and licensing terms to enforce them.

Lessons Learned:

1. Open source technology delivers free access with unrestricted use and flexibility, sharing of intellectual property.
2.Use, study, modify and copy is a summary of both what free software is and why free software works.
3. I am now ware that I am using open source software in doing my work, free software helps me get my work done.

Reflections / Impact on Work:

Many new devices use more advanced technology I use all these things all the time. Really, I do everyday, Free software is being used all over the world, even at home especially now in the library and business sector. In our daily transactions such as searching to google, using Facebook, receiving and sending email and as a librarian in doing my cataloging tasks in using the LC in parsing MARC records. These simple stuffs that we do use free software and sometimes we are not aware of that. Now I started to value or recognized computers as one of the powerful tools in getting my work done.

Field Trip at International Rice Research Institute

Going to IRRI is really such a nice experienced. After two and half hours of travel we were able to see the place. We took our breakfast first at the IRRI cafeteria then to IRRI library. At the IRRI library we were warmly welcomed by Ms. Mila Ramos and the rest of the staff.

IRRI was founded in 1961 with a staff of twelve. It has the world's largest collection of rice literature. During the lecture we were exposed to the different information retrieval system as well as web 2.0 application in the library. I found out that the "Millenium Software " is a very user friendly. It has a complete sets of features which is ideal for any library system. Milleniem modules which consists of OPAC, Cataloging, Circulation Services, Acquisition and a peripherals with URL checker and advanced searching. I learned the use of "skype" through reference service, a loan policy where library clients may renew their own loans online for additional two weeks period. Simply indicate their name and library barcode number "Do it Yourself" renewals can be made anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection. The Ariel Document Delivery Services it is free of charge with a 3 modes of delivery- direct or instant access, electronic and conventional. To meet the growing needs and due to demands of IRRI researchers they created freely open access to journals. These can still utilized at home which is very convenient to users.

The greatest thing about all of these field trips was we would always have lunch together with our classmates (bonding time) which in returned we've learned how to build a harmonious relationship to my other classmates. I gained new sets of friends. The field trip itself strives to develop leadership, communication and critical thinking skills for all of us.

Field trips can create relevancy to our work as a librarian it connects and exposed us the used of Millenium database. As a librarian we should be flexible in changes especially in today's technology. Technology is changing the way people run their personal lives in more ways than one.

The IFLA Internet Manifesto

The IFLA Internet Manifesto.2006.accessed Agust 13, 2009 from
http://archive.ifla.org/lll/misc/im.e.htm*Abstract*

Abstract of the article:

The article presented the United Nations " Universal Declaration of Human Rights -1948
"Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Three Things I learned from the article:

• The internet is an important source of information especially in today's generation therefore the manifesto seeks to proclaim the fundamental rights of users both to access and to publish information on the internet without restriction.
• The manifesto intends to develop international guidelines for implementing the principles. The guidelines shall assist and support librarians developing policies and priorities for internet services in accordance with the needs of their communities.
• UNESCO and IFLA declares a principles which guide the creation and operations of public libraries and school libraries world wide.

Impact/ Reflection:

It is a good step that the UNESCO and IFLA is trying to create manifesto which intends to have a freedom of access to information via internet because based from what I read almost 84% of people around the world choose the internet as their first source of information.But I think it is impossible to implement this manifesto since there are certain factors to consider.First thing is the censorship, second thing is the budget because it says in the manifesto that it is "free of charge" to whom?.How will the third world countries cope up if they don't have any budget on this?It is easy to establish but it is difficult to maintain if it is already establish.As we all know public schools still don't have their libraries and a licensed librarian to man the library.Trying to picture the whole manifesto is a good thing and such a good learning experienced to everyone but how to start this, I think it's impossible.

Linking Users to Open Access

Grogg, Jill E. Linking Users to Open Access [Electronic version].Searcher, 13 (4):52-56, April 2005

http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=821739421&sid=l&Fmt=4&clientld=57020&RQT=309&vName=PQD

Abstract of the article:

Providing practical and effective access to OA (open access) content form the focus of the article. It hopes to help those librarians and information professionals to provide their users with access to quality scholarship whether free or fee based.

3 Things I learned from the article:

1. The difference between OA journals and OA archives, is that OA journals conduct peer review while OA archives do not conduct peer review.

2. Web sites, ebooks, discussion forums, blogs, wikis, RSS feeds, list servs, P2P file sharing networks are other OA vehicles that we could use.

3. There is a designated color code to classify journals ; gold : publisher provides OA to its research articles, without delay, green : publisher permits postprint archiving by authors, pale green : publisher permits, i.e., doesn't oppose, reprint archiving by authors and lastly, gray : publisher offers none of the above.

Implications :

There is always a way in providing information to our patrons, the major point here is to point the users to the copy appropriate for them and their current needs. Librarians still play an important role in decision making. Before if a library doesn't have access to an article from a publisher or a print copy on the shelf then the library could still try to acquire a copy of the article for the patron through outside holdings from other library or what we call interlibrary loan. This time because of the latest technology if someone is asking a copy, as a general reference librarian I would suggest or advise the users to the official copy for purposes of scholarly authentication and to the open access version, for purposes of access ( if they do not have licensed access to the official version).

Visualize the Perfect Search

Visualize the Perfect Search
Tenopir, Carol. Library Journal. New York:
March 2009. Vol. 134, Iss. 4,p. 22 (1 pp.)

Abstract of the article:

The article pointed out that when it comes in searching, visual interfaces are much more visually appealing than a simple search box.Combining visualization with interacting allows researchers to discover, not just retrieve.Learning through exploration and letting kids to discover new things by themselves.A cited example is the International Children's Digital Library, it was designed by a team that included kids, as we all know kids are really amazed in seeing colorful pictures, moving objects etc., it provides search filters for things like color of covers, types of stories, happy or sad books, length of books, and more.PhotoFinder was mentioned (now Photomesa) displays thumbnails of all photos in a collection, allowing users to go over images to see larger versions, zoom in to regroup photos this allow children in learning by exploration.They could manipulate and explore new things by themselves. it really help them to discover new things by experiencing it.

Three (3) things I learned from the article:

1. Visual interfaces that display the entire contents of a database matters most and allow manipulation than searching in a simple search box.

2. It is a habit of the student to search first to Yahoo or Google whenever they need something for research therefore, it is advisable nor we should encouraged them that the library databeses has a high quality and authoritative content.

3. Even in food we have different preferences, when it comes through their taste. Just like in learning some people are visual learners who learn best by seeing; others are auditory learners while others are kinesthetic learners. Let's respect every learners/users choice.

Implication to my work:

Whenever I received a query I always recommended or ecouraged students to check first their references through the use of OPAC or the databases that we display and present in the library web page because these are all pre evaluated and pre selected by librarians. Instead of visiting first to Yahoo or Google better used the databases in the library because of their authoritativeness, currency, style and organization are much better.

Library 2.0 Theory : Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries

Library 2.0 Theory : Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries
Maness, Jack. Library 2.0 Theory : Web 2.0 and Its Implications
for Libraries [Electronic Version].Webology 3(2), June 2006.
http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html

Abstract of the Article:

Libraries are cornerstone of a knowledge society, that puts them at the center of learning, culture and community life. Now libraries and librarians have the opportunity to take part in existing knowledge communities. As we all know technology is expanding every now and then just like in our libraries. Libraries are moving into web 2.0 and it only has just began. Web technologies allow us to converse and communicate with library as never before. Through these online communities, people are not only creating and publishing content but also sharing it with others. These includes blogs, wikis, tagging, RSS feeds, mash ups. The article point out the four essential elements of library 2.0, It is user centered, it provides a multimedia experience, it is socially rich, it is communally innovative. We should not forget that librarians have used various mechanisms for social interaction and knowledge exchange over the years. This can be the start of a new library technology.

Three (3) things I Learned from the article :

1. Web 2.0 is an easy ways to connect with other libraries and librarians. To reach people on their comfort zone especially for those people who spend time online.

2. Web 2.0 applications enable libraries and librarians to build a powerful web based tools such as search engines. It discovers information about specific technology, For instance, as a user browses through ceratin resources, repeating steps and moving on it again and again, by using web 2.0 these could be avoided. In a way web 2.0 will know when users are lost, and will offer immediate assistance.

3. Today, people from all walks of life can share their stories, participate, make friends and be heard and express their feelings, thoughts, share opinions on a certain things through online.

Reflections/ Implications :

Web 2.0 is a social phenomenon concerned with linking people to people, not just through information. These social tools offer the opportunity to form relationships with patron. It is also useful in a library setting because it can assist libraries and librarians who work in partnership from distant libraries. It much easier for the staff members who are located in separate building and still have a continous communication through the use of this technology web 2.0.

Computer Ethics / Netiquette

Abstract of the article :

Network usage is growing exponentially. Learning how to use a system properly involves more than simply learning the mechanics of how to make it do things. Learning how to use a system to its maximum potential without offending others, involves etiquette. In academic settings it is very often the librarian to whom faculty and staff turn for initiation rites. As public libraries begin offering internet access to patrons, it is once again the librarian who is faced with the challenge of making some order out of the chaos. Ethics involves behaviors which have useful or adverse effects on society as a whole or on its members. A discussion of ethics centers on issues of greater magnitude than good manners or common sense.

Szofran, Nancy. Internet Etquette and Ethics.

[Electronic version]. Computers in Libraries,14(1),2005

3 Things I learned on my Reading Assignment:

1. It is not just nice to have an etiquette on line but also it is necessary just like in dealing with our clients we should consider their feelings, thoughts to avoid offending them personally and for them to feel comfortable in dealing with us.

2. When it comes to communication it is better if you meet personally or face to face meeting because it has the most impact, then phone call, then voice mail, and lastly email. Still remember that the first one is the most important thing.

3. Do not do unto others on what you do not want them to do with you. Don't send abusive insulting email. Treat each person with respect like what you want them to treat with you.

Application / Implication of the new things I learned to my work:

In a personal manner if you feel a new user is abusing the use of the system and you are the appropriate person to point this out, do so and do not be afraid, but not something that you will post on a bulletin board or in a way that the public could see, this is a disrespectful manner of informing the person. Better try to communicate to the person and set face to face meeting with him/her.

Techniques in Information Retrieval

Abstract of the Article :

Many search engines have adopted a new standard and tag URLs to help with the problem of multiple URLs pointing to the same page with identical content.To have only one specific version of the page indexed the following like Google, Yahoo!, Live and Ask now support a standard way of designating the "canonical URL" with the header of the web page. They have mentioned here several updates take for example the Google. Google has cancelled or stopped developmentr on several lessused projects, mostly non search related. The site now redirects to the main Google page.Yahoo! is using its search monkey technology to create enhanced listings in its result for certain websites. While Hakia released a new version of the Hakia scoopbar for both Internet Explorer and Firefox. The new version has a highlight button that can result from Hakia, Google, Yahoo!, Live or other search engines.There is an unending search of the development of technology for the convenience of the user.

Notes, Greg R. Search Engine Update . Online. 33, 13. Retrieved June 30, 2009, from ProQuest database.

Three things I've learned from my Reading Assignment

• 
  
  How can we measure the quality of information retrieval? maybe we can include : the relevance, ease of learning, ease to use, user acceptance, and satisfaction of the user.


• 
  
  Learning to use retrieval techniques such as Boolean operators, truncation, natural language, field and keyword searching. ( Oulanov, Alexei, Pajarillo Edmund."Academic Librarians' perception of Lexis-Nexis .The Electronic Library. 21,123-129. Retrieved June 30, 2009, from ProQuest database)


• 
  
  To keep updated on the development of the latest technology it is advisable to read or search through journals in technology and have an open access to the mentioned system. Having enough time to explore for application, because for me application is different from theoretical.

Application / Implication of the new things I learned to my work

Technology today has been regularly updated they find ways to make it easier for the user to cope up with the latest trends.To keep updated on the development of these latest technology I think we should apply them to our work on the positive side and not abusing the system. Let's find a way of helping or teaching our library clientele on finding information in doing their researches through the application of search engine.