#22 Learn how to download audiobooks

I checked out NetLibrary - wow lots of choice there. but as the account is no longer valid, I searched on Google for free audio books. Among the many results, I tried Freeaudiobooks but didn't like the layout or choices. I next tried http://freeclassicaudiobooks.com. You could download the books either in MP3 (media player) or M4B for Ipod. The choice was limited - but there were 3 screens of good classic books, I chose Prisoner of Zenda in MP3 format- the male voice had a pleasant tone, and of course with Mediaplayer no need to download anything, it started up instantly. I think audio books would be good on a long trip - as an alternative to looking for a good radio signal, or if you want a change from listening to your CDs. In our busy lives audio books it would be an aid when studying - you could listen to your prescribed reading on your iPod while travelling or cooking, doing housework! It would certainly give our eyes a rest - from gazing at computer screens day in and day out!

#21 useful tools for locating podcasts

Podcasts are like YouTube but are in audio format only. Checked out all three directories in tutorial, but went for www.podcast.net. Appeared to have a simple directory at first glance.Was first attracted to "how to tour Italy". Found that I have to download Quicktime, even though I already have iTunes. You can also get the PDF version in full text if you don't want to listen.
Searched by the tags for 'books' - interesting podcast of Fortunate Mistress by Daniel Dafoe - chapter by chapter, on www.babblebook.com. Subscribed to this site via my Bloglines account. Looked for library type podcasts - found Uni of Glasgow library's Fresher's Podcast "Don't let the cardigans fool you" was the intro line for the file- it was a groovy upbeat way of conveying library updates to students.

#20 Discover video sharing sites

I can understand the fascination the world has with YouTube - the variety and depth of videos is staggering. I typed in 'libraries' - and I found the Cookie Monster trying to 'borrow' cookies from the library - took me back a few decades when I used to watch Sesame street with my children! Harry Potter was also there being interviewed about records management....! I can see the world whiling away many hours glued to YouTube.
I can also see the value in the educational and professional tutorials that are on YouTube eg if you had to demonstrate a practical task to remote colleagues it is quicker and easier to convey it by video rather than by typing out laborious instructions.

I'm a cat lover so I liked this clever video "when cats attack" which has excitement building camera shots and music.

#19 Explore a Web 2.0 site

So many sites, so little time!
Went for the short list. Spring widgets, and Yourminis - The first was confusing - did not explain too much. Yourminis was slightly better. The sharing factor is big. I'm sure we could apply widgets to our working life. Also looked at Goowy - personalise your online desktop, or as they tell us Goowy enables you to "manage your digital life and express youself on the web." Sounds like you could create a desktop with instant links, RSS feeds, news updates, online messaging etc etc and etc. The most relevant site that I could relate to my work, is of course Library Thing. After wading through widget world, sharing heaven, twitterland, lists and lists, coming upon Library thing warmed my heart! What is obvious from this exploration of WEb 2.0 sites, is that the world is becoming a smaller place, compliments of the WWW.

#18 Online productivity tools

Checked out Zoho. The "portable" word, spreadsheet, presentation, notebook, calendar tools etc look useful in that you can access them from any PC. Managed to create word document and notebook pages. Added image and text to the notebook feature, but could not embed it in my blog.
Also twice there was an application error and I was kicked out. So I'm moving on. But "I'll be back" to try and put that thing on my blog!

#17 Add an entry to sandpit

Played around in the sand, added favourite vacation spots, (last big holiday to Europe and Middle East!) read some other posts, and now want to go to Saba! Added name to log on main page.

#16 Wikis and innovative ways libraries are using them

Re-attacking Learning 23 Things in the great year of 2008!
Even though I have learnt much about wikis through contributing to the ATO eLibrary country profiles and Learning and Development wiki, it was interesting to see other wikis, eg special event wikis. Also St Joseph's County Library pathfinder caught my interest with its enriched content and various ways of displaying blocks of information eg special links, special events. Not only did it point me to books it linked to events, tips, history and other websites.