del.icio.us

Another way to stay organized! This website looks like an excellent tool for research. It's easy to use and it makes sense. It organizes websites to eliminate confusion. Although I don't really need this resource at this stage in my life, I will keep it in mind for future reference.

WorldCat

From experience, I know that filling out the OCL-ILL request form can be a little difficult since I don't know the ISBN#, publisher, etc., of the book I wish to borrow. Sometimes I wonder whether not knowing this info is why I never get the book. WorldCat can be a very useful resource when customers want a certain book that isn't in their library system. It could also help libraries find the book easier. Just go to WorldCat, type in the name or author of the book, and all the information about it is at your fingers.

NetLibrary

This is an excellent resource, especially for students. I think the OCL should publicize NetLibrary more. It's easy to use and you don't have to worry about fines.

Library Thing

Library Thing is a useful way to connect people of similar interests. It's interesting to see how many other people enjoy the books you like to read. My books on Library Thing were somewhat popular. The Star Wars series "Legacy of the Force" wasn't as popular as one of my favorites, The Count of Monte Cristo. People who've read "Legacy of the Force" were in the hundreds, while people who've read The Count of Monte Cristo were in the thousands. This surprised me since it's such a large book.

Blogging Away the Time (Thing #10)

Well, so far all the "things" posted for the OCL Webchallenge have been very informative and useful. Before the OCL Webchallenge, I didn't know what RSS feeds were. Now I'm using them for everything. They're really helpful when you're in a rush and using Bloglines is much easier than going to a hundred different websites. I've also learned a lot about blogs and will probably create a new blogspot after this challenge is over. It's a good way to connect people of similar interests and ideas.

Finding Feeds

Finding feeds that suit your interests seems like a daunting task at first because there are so many out there. However, using available search tools makes this task a lot easier. I liked Syndic8 the best. Their alphebatized list of RSS feeds is easy to browse. Technorati and Topix were a little confusing because they had information all over the place and it doesn't look very organized. Friends and family are probably the best source for finding feeds. They usually know what you like and what interests you the most.

Really Simple Syndication and Newsreaders

RSS definately makes life a little easier. It saves tons of time looking up individual websites for the latest news or your internet favorites for the latest blogs. It's much easier just to go to one website (e.g., Bloglines) and read the latest. I'll definately continue using this resource in the future.