Online Book Communities

Online Book Communities...What is that?????

Ever had so many books in your mind that you felt you needed to sort or make sure you organized them to read.  Forget the paper and pencil, or the notepad...online book communities are here!  

An online book community allows you to save your books under one site.  Several websites are available for you to accomplish this goal: Goodreads, LibraryThing, Shelfari, Booklikes, Biblionasium.  Every site is different and can be chosen according to the needs of the audience.  Lucky for you, I have researched all of them and I am thrilled to report back to you!!!  

Warning: Do NOT, under any circumstance allow me to influence your decision.  Each site is different for everyone, you must find the one that fits your needs!  

LET'S BEGIN

Good Reads.....

Goodreads is definitely geared towards adults.  If you are going to school and need to read several books for a course, this is your site.  Of course, if you are a book lover, this is also you site.  

The physical appearance provides a very mature look.  Searching for books is simple; however, your searches can sometimes be very lengthy!  What I do absolutely love about this site is that you can type in a keyword, and immediately all books related to that keyword are provided in an instance!  For example, if you type Harry Potter, you will see an immediate list.  Furthermore, you can create shelf your books according to your categories.  This can be ideal if you have a variety of books for a variety of purposes.  "Shelf"ing them does not take a long time at all.  Easy to use and simple to navigate! 

LibraryThing

Of all my library book communities, this would probably have to be my least favorite.  The physical appearance is very similar to Good Reads; however, the ease of navigating through the site is not as simple.  What I felt was most inconvenient, was that if you made the same search of Harry Potter, the list was not as beneficial.  There was a variety of Harry Potter results that were not relevant to what I was searching.  This caused my time efficiency to decrease.  Moreover, after finding the books I decided to add to a list, it was categorizing them to a shelf that become very tedious.  To complete this task, you needed to select the book, which then a lengthy profile to the book is provided (with lots of information), then you needed to find the right icon to select, by then your time has been prolonged.  Finally, I was also not enthused that I was not able to create my own shelf titles.  Perhaps I did not not find it, but nonetheless, this would only provide another reason why I would not recommend this site (at least not at the top of my list). 

Shelfari

Although the physical appearance of this site is friendly, the efficiency is similar to LibraryThing.  To begin with, loading information took a very long time.  As I progressed through all the sites, Shelfari was the only one that gave me this type of trouble.  Let me know if this happens to you too.  Furthermore, the searches were not as fast and relevant.  Once again I made the same search and found that the results were not categorized according to popularity or relevant to most searchers.  For example, Harry Potter, the result given were mixed: book, coloring book, book collection, etc.  In my opinion, it would be much easier if the search results were organized systematically to help the audience.  However, that being said, after finding the book desired, only allowed me to shelf it according to read, plan to read or currently reading it.  

Booklikes

As we approach the end of our online book communities, have no fear, my favorite ones are on their way!!!!  Booklikes was among my top of the list.  The physical appearance is very friendly and the ability to navigate was extremely simple and efficient!  In a world were time if of essence, time efficiency ranks a top priority.  Once again, I decided to make the same search, Harry Potter.  Immediately the list was provided and organized to provide the most relevant searches first.  This made my listing quick.  Furthermore, once the list was provided, you were able to simply select "Shelf" and automatically it prompted you to the shelf you wish to assign it to.  What I also appreciated about this site was the ability to create a shelf according to your needs, in an expedient manner.  Finally, what I also loved about this site was that how after selecting the book, I was immediately taken to the background information of that book. I was able to view a quick summary with multiple reviews on it.  Awesome feature and very quick!!!!!

Biblionasium

Last, but definitely not least, Biblionasium.  Immediately the name provides a friendly atmosphere.  This would definitely be the site for teachers!  When registering, you are prompted to answer what you are using the site for.  This allows the site to provide you with the most beneficial features that cater to your needs.  For example, I selected teacher.  I was completely fascinated by how many features were provided to me.  I was immediately able to create a classroom name, in which my students would be able to visit the site and instantly know which books are recommended or needed to read in my classroom.  One disadvantage was the inability to create shelf titles that extend beyond what is provided: favorites, recommended, required.  Among the many features, another one that surprised me was how you can assign books to specific students or as a whole class.  In this manner, teachers are able to assure students are reading books that are to their ability level.  Other awesome features include: parent letter, additional fun stuff for children, award winning books, student reports....I can go on, but please I encourage you to visit this site and discover how much more it has to offer!!!!  By far, Bilionasium is my #1 site to use with my students!!!!

In conclusion, I have evaluated each of the book community sites that are highly recommended....each one with its own advantages and disadvantages (keep in my, I have provided you only with my opinion), but what are you waiting for?   Start your exploration and find which one if right for you!  

Till the next time!

Podcasts

Thank you for joining me on another technology adventure.  Today we are exploring the usage of Podcasts?  Such an intriguing word, yet some of us might not know what it is.  If this is you, have no fear, I am here!  

Let me begin by clarifying, I too once had no idea what it was, but my gosh am I loving it now!  A Podcast is a form of digital media that consists of an episodic series of audio or digital radio, subscribed to and downloaded through web syndication or streamed online to a computer or mobile device. The word is portmanteau of "pod" and "broadcast."

......Still confused?

Let me help you with that.  Basically, a Podcast allows you to record audio information, which you are then able to upload it onto the internet.  Your students or staff can then use it as a reference tool via internet-any place, any time!  Awesome right?

Upon searching several podcast sites, I have provided you with three choices to begin your exploration: Soundcloud, Audioboo, Podomatic.

Though each of them provide the same purpose, my personal favorite is using Soundcloud.  Soundcloud allows you to record with unlimited time and is easy to navigate.  Audioboo allows a maximum of 10 minutes and Podomatic, 1 hour.  I will not discourage any of them because they are all awesome, so check them out and choose which one is right for you.  

Moreover, each podcast site offers a deeper look into other podcasts that are created and categorized by topics.  You can search podcast related to news, education, music, sports and much more!  What are you waiting for........

If you not convinced, let me show you how I have create a podcast for my students.  Below you will find a podcast I created to help readers become successful.  

Though this is only one of the many strategies proven to help readers become successful, students, parents and staff can continue listening weekly (or as desired) for more podcasts that become relevant  for a child's success.  

Finally, there are many ways to use podcasts: teachers can provide audio podcasts to deliver additional lessons or support that extend beyond the classroom, students can create a podcast to demonstrate information that has been researched, and librarians can communicate news or provide newly arrived booklists to students....the possibilities are ENDLESS!  

Whatever the reason, a podcast will definitely provide a method of delivering information that will meet the demands of a 21st century technology learner! 

SO ARE YOU READY TO PODCAST??? 

Julie Trevino

Videos and QR Codes in the Library

All About Youtube

With technology growing everyday, Youtube and gradually QR codes have become among the most popular tools used by people of all ages.

Youtube is an excellent site that provides you with an abundance of information that can serve all purposes.  Wether you're looking for a yummy recipe for dinner or instructions on how to do a math problem, Youtube has the answer!

In today's educational world, Youtube is also paving the way to the spotlight and awareness of multiple issues facing students, parents and teachers.  Let's take a closer look on how various schools are incorporating Youtube in their everyday lives.

TheNHSLibrary

Considered one of the most important aspects of the library, librarians are able to upload videos on the instructions on how to use EBSCOHost.  Too often students and sometimes even teachers do not understand or even know what this tool is for.  By creating a Youtube video with its fundamental purpose, librarians are able to save time and provide easy accessibility to all school members.

Always a favorite...when you record a video incorporating teachers and students, it is bound to become a favorite.  Usage of key staff members allows a message to be transmitted with greater appreciation. The teachers at this school decided to use one of the most popular songs on todays' radio and mix it with a groovy dance and theme.  

The Unquiet Library

How to Embed a VoiceThread or Prezi...IN A WIKISPACE, is powerful!  Technology can be difficult, but if you upload a video with the proper steps, you can watch it, take notes and assure you don't miss a step.  The Unquiet Library has done exactly that.  By uploading a step by step process, you eliminate confusion and doubt.  Questions are just a click away!

Among the favorites for students would definitely be the Art Show Preview.  As a student, seeing my art would create an overjoy feeling.  The value of knowing that a message transmitted through art can have an impact on others who are viewing the Youtube channel is impacting.  When uploading a showcase of work, students feel appreciated! 

Yet another reason why Youtbe is such a great idea! 

Pikesville HS Library

Moving on to Pikesville HS Llibrary.  One of the most important features that differentiate middle school to high school are the courses that will have an impact on your college career.  High school can be a stressful chapter to begin.  Every method of assistance will help alleviate any questions and concerns from the students and their parents.  With Youtube videos made accessible, help couldn't be any faster!

Ever wonder which memories will leave an impact on students......?  When you capture several moments throughout the year, the magical effect of Youtube is that you can create a montage of memories that will forever be instilled in student's mind!

Speaking from personal experience, I recently found a high school video that showed the effort and hard work that a band demonstrated through competition.  That memory was mine and it has been triggered by a Youtube video.  Thank you for that! 

Bonnie Branch Middle School Media

As I approach the end of my most helpful and interesting videos found on Youtube uploaded by several libraries, I came across one of the most detrimental lessons that every high school student should learn....citation!  With the severity of plagiarism, a Youtube video elaborating on the effects of citation is critical.  Through the incorporation of a Youtube video, teachers are transmitting an important message. 

Last, but definitely not least, the thematic song from the movie Frozen mixed with an important concept for librarians: OVERDUE BOOKS!  Sadly, at times students do not understand the value of returning books on time.  If we present the value through a popular song, then perhaps the message will become clearer!  And if it doesn't, it was at least worth a shot.  As librarians and educators, we must be willing to explore new boundaries! 

In conclusion, as a future librarian we must find new ways of engaging our students.  With Youtube made extremely simple, librarians can deliver lessons, introduce new books and showcase what students at the campus are doing.  Youtube videos can be an exciting way of assuring the library is not becoming obsolete.  

Show the world what a library is all about and the wonders it can bring to everyone!  

And one more thing.........QR CODES!!!!!

Though I had heard of it several times, I was always hesitant about it.  Never quite sure how to build one myself.  (Sound familiar?)  Say no more, I am infatuated with this technology tool and SO SHOULD YOU!  

After exploring QR Codes I realized there are several ways of incorporating these in the classroom and as a future librarian!  It is an intriguing method of capturing student's attention.  And most importantly, incorporating some of the most popular technology tools among students: phones, tablets, iPads and more! With QR Codes you can advertise a book, increase social following such as Twitter, Blogs and Facebook, or simply promo a video.  Take example the following: 

By using Animoto, I was able to create a book trailer on one my favorite books and most popular among children.  The Day the Crayons Quit is an enjoyable story written by Drew Daywalt.

"Poor Duncan just wants to color. But when he opens his box of crayons, he finds only letters, all saying the same thing: His crayons have had enough! They quit! Beige Crayon is tired of playing second fiddle to Brown Crayon. Black wants to be used for more than just outlining. Blue needs a break from coloring all those bodies of water. And Orange and Yellow are no longer speaking—each believes he is the true color of the sun.

What can Duncan possibly do to appease all of the crayons and get them back to doing what they do best?
 

Kids will be imagining their own humorous conversations with crayons and coloring a blue streak after sharing laughs with Drew Daywalt and New York Times bestseller Oliver Jeffers. This story is perfect as a back-to-school gift, for all budding artists, for fans of humorous books such as Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems and The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Sciezka and Lane Smith, and for fans of Oliver Jeffers' Stuck,The Incredible Book Eating Boy, Lost and Found, and This Moose Belongs to Me."

Using your QR application, scan the QR code to view the trailer.

Don't have one....say no more: 

DOWNLOAD a free QR Code scanner to your phone.

iPhone:

Scan - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scan-qr-code-barcode-reader/id411206394?mt=8

QR Reader - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/qr-reader-for-iphone/id368494609?mt=8

Android:

QR Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=la.droid.qr

Scan for Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.scan.android.client

QR Reader for Droid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.tapmedia.qrreader

HOPE YOU ENJOYED AND LEARNED SOMETHING NEW!  

TILL THE NEXT TIME.....JULIE TREVINO