I love it when I get to go out and do presentations during which I can highlight what my member libraries are doing. I’ve said before that I think 2005 was the year libraries started to “get it” when it comes to using some of these newish online tools to become more efficient, better meet patron needs, and expand their online presence, and I’m happy to say that I include my libraries in that statement. Earlier this year, the regional Illinois Library Systems did a survey of Illinois libraries in which they asked some tech-related questions. Things like do you know what blogs are? RSS? Podcasting? I haven’t seen the survey results yet myself, but I heard anecdotaly that MLS libraries scored the highest on the tech questions, which is why I say my libraries ROCK! Here are some great examples.

• Brookfield Public Library will be re-joining our SWAN catalog, and theyre using a blog to document the migration for their patrons!
   
• Inspired by Josie Parker at Ann Arbor District Library, Megan Heligas – Director of the Flossmoor Public Library – has started a blog called A Minute with Megan in which she is talking directly to and with her patrons. How incredibly awesome is that?! Two posts and she’s already got a comment from a patron!
   
• Lansing Public Library is Flickring (new verb) and is partnering with a library in Singapore to offer additional book reviews and reading suggestions their patrons wouldn’t otherwise see.
   
• If you can believe this, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (yes, they are one of my member libraries!) is using iPods to disseminate information internally! Here’s info from an email Keith DeWeese sent me with the notice they’ve posted on the intranet:

  “The Knowledge Center has brought iPod technology to the Chicago Fed. It is pleased to announce the opportunity to listen to books and podcasts through the Knowledge Center's own iPod. Call us to request the titles you want to hear. We will load your selection and have it ready for pickup. If you are not familiar with using iPods, Knowledge Center staff will give you a demonstration. Please be aware that due to the two-week borrowing period, your request may be added to a waiting list.

  Some things you should know about the Knowledge Center's iPod:
  Due to copyright restrictions, books cannot be loaded on personal iPods or other players.
  The lists of available titles and some podcast sources are below.
  The Knowledge Center will load your book selection plus all current podcasts.
  Your Bank ID must be presented when you check out the downloaded iPods.
  iPods cannot be sent through pouch or mail; all borrowers must pick them up and return them in person (special arrangements may be made for Midway staff).
  Several pieces of equipment, including a charger, will be included in the kit.
  For personal preference and sanitary reasons, we ask that you use your own headphones.

  Available Book Titles:
  The Art of War by Sun Tzu
  Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
  The World is Flat : A Brief History of the 21st Century by Thomas L. Friedman
  The Tipping Point : How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcolm Gladwell
  Blink : The Power of Thinking without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
  How to Talk to Anyone : Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships by Leil Lowndes

  Podcasts - A Selection from Our Ever-Growing List:
  Best Accounting Practices
  Business Week - Cover Story
  CBS News Podcast - "60 Minutes"
  Marketwatch Morning Stories
  NBC News - "Meet the Press"
  NPR: Motley Fool Profiles
  Wall Street Journal Report
  Washington Week Podcast”

How freaking cool is that?!

Have I mentioned lately how much I love my libraries?!