Monday, December 15, 2008

Wikis

Wikipedia is a resource I use regularly at home; I find it helpful for looking up general information and trivia, but would use at least one other reliable source to confirm facts. It was interesting to discover and explore some of the other wikis that are available.
I started out by looking at the St. Joseph County Public Library and found there a good range of information regarding services and collections.
Also, I found some interesting snatches of information e.g. the difference between biography/memoir/journals or diaries. And there is plenty of additional material connected to this subjects on offer, such as : from the new shelf; award winners and staff recommendations.
I found The Book Lovers wiki @ Princeton Public Library a straightforward, no frills wiki with reviews from librarians and readers and links to Princeton Public Library.
It was also interesting to have a look around Wookieepedia as Star Wars is something I know very little about. I was impressed by the volume of information-including graphics- that is available there to fans and for those with no or little familiarity with the subject. I imagine that due to the fans depth of knowledge, passion and interest there would be regular editing occurring.
Some ways that I think Wikis would be useful at the library are: for exhibitions and comments/feedback from visitors to the exhibitions; information about library items e.g. best sellers; reviews; staff recommendations and book award winners.