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March 31, 2006
Podcasts, Anyone?
One of the hot topics at this year's Computers in Libraries conference, which I attended in March, was podcasting, a new technology for distributing audio and video files over the Internet. The "pod" in podcasting refers to the Apple iPod, the best-selling mp3 player, but you don’t have to have an iPod to take advantage of this new technology. Podcast files are supplied by content providers from the worlds of journalism, broadcasting, and entertainment. The new technology enables you to subscribe free of charge to these regularly broadcast files, giving you access to favorite audio and/or video programs when you want, where you want, and on whatever device you choose. I was familiar with iPods and had navigated the iTunes website, but usually for music files. Podcasts are relatively new. Using my PC-compatible laptop, I logged on to the Internet, entered “podcasting” in Google, and was soon looking at Apple's iTunes podcasting webpage. In order to listen to podcasts through iTunes, I needed to download the iTunes software (version 6.0.4), which works on a PC computer with Windows 2000 or XP or a Mac computer with Mac OS X v10.2.8 or later. Once I downloaded and installed the iTunes software (the combined process took less than 5 minutes with my cable Internet connection), I was able to browse an extensive collection of podcasts from a variety of suppliers, including commercial television networks, The New York Times, the BBC, NPR, and The Wall Street Journal. For my first foray into podcasting, I chose All Songs Considered from NPR, described as “an eclectic mix of fresh music by emerging artists and breakout bands.” I was able to fold my laundry and get an update on new developments from the world of music (with clips included). In a busy world, podcasting makes multitasking possible. It’s easy to do and, in many cases, free. (Episodes of Lost and other TV shows cost about $2.00 each.) If you’re ready to add another notch to your computer skills belt, try podcasting.
Posted by JudyS at 11:25 AM | Comments (1)
March 28, 2006
Beware of Brand-Name Spammers
Spam artists are at it again. Watch out for emails bearing the logo of some of the most popular consumer brands, including Wal-Mart, Home Depot, and Starbucks. "Brand-spam" emails, promising $500 gift or shopping cards, are just a new way to get you to enter your personal information so you can receive even more spam in the future. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is!
Posted by JudyS at 09:53 AM
March 23, 2006
Computers in Libraries Conference 2006
It's spring, and the Darien Library staff is on the road again. While several of my colleagues are in Boston at the annual Public Library Association meeting, I am in Washington, D.C., for my third year at Computers in Libraries. Described as North America's largest technology conference and exhibition for librarians and information managers, this conference covers all aspects of technology as it relates to the library world. This year's hot topics are RFID (radio frequency identification) for faster, more efficient check-in, check-out, and inventory of library materials, and RSS feeds, which enable libraries to bring news and personalized content direct to their patrons. The Darien Library, a leader in the use of library technology, is working on using both of these technologies to improve services to our patrons. Stay tuned....
Posted by JudyS at 08:55 PM
March 18, 2006
Don't Become a Victim of Identity Theft
With the increased use of computers in public settings like the library, there is an increased threat of identity theft. Forgetting to log out of your instant messenger or email account can leave your private information up for grabs. It's more important than ever to be aware of your surroundings and to use caution when entering personal information into public computers. How can you lessen your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft? Start by educating yourself about the problem. Steve Weisman has written an informative book on this subject called 50 Ways to Protect Your Identity and Your Credit. Eric Gertler's Prying Eyes is also worth reading. If you're looking for something shorter on this topic, try these recent articles:
Or, if you prefer to do your reading online, visit the Federal Trade Commission's website for free, up-to-date information.
Remember to travel safely on the Information Super Highway!
Posted by JudyS at 02:40 PM
March 09, 2006
Windows Live Search Debuts
Yesterday Microsoft launched its new search engine, Windows Live Search (WSL), in a beta, or testing, version. Designed to replace MSN Search, WSL will provide an alternative to Google and Yahoo. The new search engine will give users all the usual tools, including email, blogging, and instant messenger, and will also allow you to customize your search screen with RSS feeds. For more information on WSL, visit http://www.live.com.
Posted by JudyS at 07:50 PM