Thing 23~Final Thoughts

First of all, I just want to express how much fun and learning I have experienced. I have learned so much, thanks to everyone who put together the 23 Things on a Stick. I wish there was more than 23 Things. I hope you continue to put together more 23-type programs for use to explore. Technology is ever changing and this is a fabulous way to keep libraries more up-to-date. With our day-to-day activities it is hard sometimes to take the opportunity to learn new things without a push. Some of us get stuck in a rut and need a gentle push.

Reflecting back on this experience: I have spent a good 2 hours on each of the activities. At first, I was concerned with being able to do some of the things. Now I am going back and spending more time and sharing all of the information that I have gained in this experience. I will continue to return to the 23 things on a stick list and explore more thoroughly each of the things. I just wish that there were lots more.

As to a one word or sentence summary to promote the 23 Things on a Stick, I am not quit sure that I can due justice in just one word or sentence. A technology enhancement and professional growth experience that will forever change the way that you view the library of today and tomorrow.

Personal Growth: Our media center has about 30 computers in it. We have PC for students to use throughout the day. We have Macs for students to create movies. We have a huge collection of books, which some are out of date. I feel more inspired to get rid of some of the really out of date books and utilize more of the ELM resources that are available online for free. We take pride in providing an open friendly, safe place for students to come. I would love to be able to cater more to all types of learners and will continue to work on making the media center user-friendlier.
Favorite Tools and Discoveries: Through this experience, I have a wider variety of tools to use to help my students in their research such as ELM, Flickr, and Big Huge Labs. I have more tools to help myself manage a busy schedule.

Connecting: I just wish that there had been more collaboration with others as we progressed through the 23 things. Would be nice to have a place to create more discussion, such as a discussion board. The blogs are nice to post your thoughts and experiences but more collaboration would be beneficial. I spent a lot of time reading other blogs but not responding to others. A discussion board could enhance the 23 Things on a Stick.

Future Plans: I will continue to check the NLLN website to see if there will be more 23 Things in the future. I would love to participate again. I will give more time to learning more technology and more friendly ways to open up the media center to more patrons. Once again, thank you very much for this great opportunity to explore technology and the ever-changing library world.