Shopping online for a new black dress or the copy of the first book in a popular trilogy comes as second nature to many of us. We do not hesitate to buy concert tickets online, but how many of us have taken advantage of online resources provided by public and university libraries? In Chapter 12 of the Neal-Schuman Library Technology Companion, we learn of the noteworthy Library 2.0 tools that will help reaffirm the need to create and maintain libraries and become the impetus to take full advantage of the free resources they provide.
I have used Chicago Public Libraries' online catalog to perform a myriad of tasks. Aside from finding out whether my favorite books were available and if so, where, I have also put my own book on hold. (I felt proud of myself!) Keeping abreast of upcoming children's programs in the libraries is a great way for my students to maintain a home-school-library connection. The Ask A Librarian feature on the Chicago State University Library website is a hidden treasure. It is reassuring to know that there are very knowledgeable “live” people who are able to help me with research questions.
Last year, I began creating monthly newsletters to keep my students aware of the various literary genres associated with our reading program, ROBERTO—Read Or Be Read To. I sent a letter to faculty and staff, suggesting ways that we can work together for our students’ success. The blog that I am creating for this course is actually being followed by several co-workers and other friends who are not in the education profession. My desire that these small gestures will garner library-related issues the respect and support that it deserves.
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