Library Elf Tutorial

As some of you may know, we've been promoting Library Elf, a library material organization tool, to patrons at the Ames Free Library.  That's why I decided to focus my most recent class assignment, a technology tutorial related to libraries (in wiki format, nonetheless!) on Library Elf so I could learn more about it and pass it on to you.  Here's my tutorial (not in it's original wiki format because only Simmons password holders have access to it-I'm disappointed about that....it looks awesome and it took a lot of hard work but there's no way to import it here).

What is Library Elf?

Library Elf is a tool that provides personal reminders for when library items are due in order to avoid late fees and to help card holders keep their library items organized.  It provides email and text message alerts and can even be linked to Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar and Apple iCal.    It is especially helpful for families because it links multiple library cards together so that families can view all the items checked out on multiple cards on one screen, eliminating the time it would take to log in to their separate accounts from the library’s site.  One of the best features is that a cardholder at more than one library consortia can link cards from different consortia to their Library Elf account to view all checkouts, holds, overdues, etc.

 Is Library Elf Free?

If your library is a subscriber, then Library Elf is free.  The consortium subscribes to the service for a fee, allowing all member libraries to benefit.  See below to find out if your library network subscribes.

MA	Babson College - signup
MA	Boston Public Library - signup
MA	Boston University School of Theology Library - signup
MA	C/W MARS - Central - signup
MA	C/W MARS - West - signup
MA	Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing - signup
MA	Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries - signup
MA	Merrimack Valley Library Consortium - signup (subscriber)
MA	Metro-Boston Library Network - signup
MA	Minuteman Library Network - signup
MA	North of Boston Library Exchange - signup
MA	Old Colony Library Network - signup
MA	SAILS Library Network - signup (subscriber)
MA	Sharon Public Library - signup (beta)
MA	Stan Getz Media Center & Library - signup
MA	Tilton Library - signup
MA	WEBnet Library Consortium - signup (beta)

Basic Vs. Premium Service

An important element to note is that if your library consortium is not a subscriber, there are two levels of service that are offered for individuals, a basic service that is free and a premium service that is not.

Basic Service

The basic service provides email reminders similar to those found in existing library email reminders: single card with pre-dues and over dues notice only (holds ready and holds requested are not included). This free service is useful for users whose libraries do not have a pre-due or overdue email reminder service. If your library does provide such a service then you may want to sign up for your library's reminder service. 

Premium Service

The premium service provides multiple ways of monitoring your library cards. The premium subscription makes things more convenient for users who frequent different libraries, have families with young children as well as users who frequent the library a lot.The premium, or subscription service, provides features including pre-due and overdue library material notices, holds available and requested, RSS feeds, text message alerts, account support services and even allows users to see their items in any iCal based calendar like Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar and Apple iCal to help stay super organized! Another cool feature is that the patron can customize their account to set up features like how often to alert (every day, every other day, etc.), how to alert (email, text messaging, etc.) and who in the family to alert (the most responsible one!).  The downside to this service for individuals whose libraries don’t subscribe is that it costs twelve dollars a year for a single card and twenty dollars a year for multiple cards.  For some, this price may be worth it if the family has multiple library cards to keep track of.

Basic and Premium Comparison

	Basic	Premium
Library cards allowed	One	One or more
Customizable settings	Partial	All
Type of alerts	Pre-due and overdue	Pre-due, overdue, not due, holds ready and holds requested
Email format	HTML	HTML
RSS	No	Yes
Text message alerts 1	No	Yes2
Items summarized in Elf calendar	No	Yes
iCal calendar	No	Yes
Private daily snapshot web page	No	Yes
Real-time checking by browser	No	Yes
Ads	Yes	Optional
Support	FAQ	24-48 hour email response
Cost (single card)	Free	$12.00 USD/year
Cost (multiple cards)	Not available	$20.00 USD/year

How To Sign Up

If you've decided Library Elf is for you, it's easy to sign up.  There are four steps to follow.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Enter your name, email and create an Elf password.

Sign Up

Create Your Account

Sign up and receive a free trial period at the premium service level. The trial period is for three weeks or after six notices have been sent (whichever is longer). To continue the premium service, you can subscribe to Library Elf anytime you want. If you decide not subscribe, the free service will continue at the basic service level.

If your library has subscribed to Library Elf, you will continue to receive the premium service at no cost.

Privacy Policy.

Step 2: Add A Library Card

Sign Up

Add Library Card

The following card(s) have been entered.

• to add another card, click Add Another Card
• to delete an existing card, click the Delete icon

• to continue, click Next

This is what it looks like when you register more than one library card from different library consortia:

After you add all cards, click continue to step 3.

Step 3: Set Up Preferences

This is where you can subscribe to email and text alerts, RSS feeds and calendar features.  You decide how often you want the notifications.

I signed up for text, email and RSS feeds and linked my Google Calendar to my Library Elf account. I started getting the alerts immediately.  I really liked the text messaging feature to remind me when something was due and when I had a hold available.  I use Google Calendar to keep track of when my items are due as well.   I think families would especially benefit from these alerts since there can be many cards involved.

After you select your preferences click finish. 

Step 4: Verification/Confirmation

Step 4 will ask you to confirm the information you've entered, including library cards, personal information and preferences.  An email will be then be sent to you to verify your email address.  In order to complete registration, you must sign in to the email you provided and follow the link from Library Elf to confirm registration.

After you click on the link you will see this message:

Confirmed 

Your Elf email notification has been activated.
Sign in if you want to check on the latest status of your library loans.

You can now sign in to your account, check your cards and view your account settings.  A small summary is also provided with items checked out and holds available.

You will see all library cards that you've entered, as well as a small summary of overdue items, items checked out, holds available, etc.

I registered both of my library cards on Library Elf.  The sign-up was easy and fast.

Features

Now that you've signed up you can start to enjoy all the special features that Library Elf offers!

Detailed Summary Of All Linked Library Cards

One of the features I really like is the detailed summary list.  It shows you all library account information for every single library card entered all on one easy to read screen.  It also specifies what library consortium the items are from to help keep track of items taken out at multiple library consortia.  The detailed summary even tells you what place you are on the holds list! 

Link to Google Calendar

Another feature that I've mentioned is the ability to keep track of items in different forms of online calendars.  I linked Google Calendar with my Library Elf account.  Here are the instructions on how to do it yourself:

How to Subscribe To Calendars in Google Calendar

To add a calendar using its address, follow these steps:

1.         At the bottom of the calendar list on the left, click the Add down-arrow button and select Add by URL.

2.         Find the address of the Google Calendar in iCalendar format, or if you have the iCalendar address of a calendar from a different application (for example, Apple's iCal), you can use this as well.

3.         Enter the address in the field provided.

4.         Click Add Calendar. The calendar will appear in the Other Calendars section of the calendar list to the left.

Bestseller Lists and Links

Library Elf also has a neat page with links to popular literary sites:

http://www.libraryelf.com/Links.aspx

Learn More

If you'd like to learn more about Library Elf, check out the Library Elf website or click here for a real time demonstration.

Important Notes

It’s important to note that even if you link cards from different consortia (which to me is the unique feature about Library Elf) the library must be a premium subscriber to benefit fom all the features.  For example, I have two library cards.  One of them is from the SAILS library network (a subscriber to Library Elf). The other is from the OCLN library network (not a subscriber).  Therefore, I will be able to get all the features of the premium service for items on my SAILS account for free, but only basic alerts for items on my OCLN account unless I want to pay for the premium service.

Summary

I think Library Elf is an easy to use technology that individuals, families and libraries can benefit from to keep items organized, returned on time and to prevent overdue items and fees.  The downside is that the basic service is not anything new.  Library users can already get free alerts through email for items coming due and overdue from their library consortium.  What makes this technology useful is being able to link multiple cards, which is only possible with the paid subscription service. There are some libraries in Massachusetts signed up as you've seen the list above, but not many.  That leaves it up to the individual to decide if the paid subscription service is worth it.  My verdict? If you have many library cards to keep track of Library Elf probably pays for itself. By keeping all items from all consortia for all family members organized and on time, Library Elf prevents overdue items and to me would be worth the subscription price.

Google and Cloud Computing

For last week's blog entry I was trying to figure out a way to transfer my Microsoft PowerPoint presentation to my blog (which is basically a wiki format) and there was no way to add an attachment (that I know of).  I was only able to add links, pictures or videos.  So my co-worker Kathy and I played around with Google Docs.  I really liked my experience using Google Docs and wikis in the past because they are open source and available online through Google to anyone (check out my recent blog on open source software if you haven't already to find out more).  You can make links to these tools open to the public, to anyone with the link or they can also be private.  There was actually a feature to transfer my PowerPoint slides to a Google Presentation, which allowed me to post the link here for all to view.

Because Google Docs(which includes more than just documents by the way; you can create presentations, wikis, calendars, etc.) stores all the info on the web, it's called Cloud Computing because all the info is stored in the "cloud" of the Internet.  This is great because the files don't take up space on your computer or flash drive, but you are dependent on Google always working correctly and must have Internet access.  As I mentioned before, it's great for group projects because everyone in the group has access to the project from wherever they are and can make changes, even all at the same time! I definitely plan on doing more cloud computing, mostly because it's convenient and allows me to easily share links with you!

To see what else Google has to offer check out this link:
http://www.google.com/intl/en/about/products/index.html

To find out more about Cloud Computing and how it works check out this YouTube video:

Simmons Systems Librarian Interview

The first assignment for my Technology for Information Professionals class was a group project to interview a Systems or Technology Librarian.  Now, many of us dread group projects, but I must say I had the best group ever (Thanks Amy and Jake!).  We were all on the same page and put in out best effort for a seamless group project that literally paid off! We got our grade today...it was the only 100% that our Professor gave out, and he even made a note that a high percentage like that is very rare but our project exceeded his expectations and then some! Woohoo!

Anyway, much of the credit is due to Amy Deschenes (yes, another Amy...we had three Amy's involved in this project), who is the Library Technology Specialist at Beatley, the Simmons College Library.  Kudos to Amy for letting us barrage her with questions and answering them gracefully, insightfully and in a way that we non-techies understood! Here is a presentation of our paper which is based upon the interview with Amy, librarian extraordinaire.  Click on the link below to view:

Systems Librarian Interview Presentation

Beatley Library at Simmons College

Ubuntu and Open Source Software

Ubuntu is a fast, secure and easy-to-use operating system from Linux used by millions of people around the world.  it is a free alternate to Microsoft Windows or Mac OS.   Ubuntu is an open source software from Linux, which means the software is distributed, usually for free, with the source code so that it can be studied, changed and improved by users.  This is unlike proprietary software like Microsoft Windows, which does not release the source code, or programming language to users.  A programming language (as defined by Baldauf and Stair) is the primary tool of software engineers, which provides commands for writing software that are translated to step by step instructions executed by the processor to achieve an objective or solve a problem.  One of the benefits of open source software is that when people find errors or bugs, they themselves can modify the software.  Other operating systems require a series of error reports, patches and even new versions of software to correct issues that may arise. 

For a better understanding of open source software, take a look at this interesting video from Richard Stallman, a pioneer of the free software movement.

In class, we actually were able to play around with Ubuntu software.  It has all the same capabilities of mainstream software that users are familiar with such as spreadsheets, word processing and presentation software and is supposedly much faster at executing commands.  It is easy to use and it is free.  So why don't most people use this? Mainly because people believe that well known mainstream companies are better because of their name.  Another supposed downside is the support, which is online based. 

There are businesses that have reorganized all of their operating systems to run Ubuntu as a money saving measure.  This would be a great alternative for libraries that don't have the budget to pay for operating systems.  I am seriously considering switching to Ubuntu when I next upgrade my operating system at home.  It is easy to use and it compatible with all other operating systems.  You can also look into the option of running dual operating systems, where you choose which one you want to use when you log on. Another option for running multiple operating systems at a time is called virtualization.  Virtualization software, also called virtual machine, allows users to run one operating system on top of another.  This allows users to go back and forth between operating systems easily. 

For more info, take a look at the ubuntu website:

http://www.ubuntu.com/

Follow this link to download, save to a disc or flash drive, or to learn about running Ubuntu with Windows. 

http://www.ubuntu.com/download

For a tutorial check this video out:

What is a Computer? Key terms and definitions

It may seem like a silly question, but how would you define a computer? What devices are considered computers? What are the key terms used in the technology world? You'll find the answers here, provided from the textbook Succeeding with Technology by Ken Baldauf and Ralph M. Stair.

A computer is:

 nA digital electronics device that combines hardware and software to accept the input of data, process and store the data, and produce some
useful output.

 Digital Technology

nTechnology refers to tools, materials, and processes that help solve human problems.

nMany of today’s technologies fall under the classification of digital electronics.

 

nDigital electronics devices store and process bits electronically.

¡A bit represents data using 1’s and 0’s

¡Eight bits is a byte – the standard grouping in digital electronics

¡Digitization is the process of transforming information into 1’s and 0’s

Producing Valuable Information

 

nData: items stored on a digital electronics device: numbers, characters, & sounds

nInformation: data organized and presented in a manner that provides value to the user: documents, graphs,

  music, photos

Microprocessor

 

nSometimes called a chip or just a processor, combines microscopic electronic  components on a single integrated circuit that processes bits according to software instructions.

Digital Technology Metrics

 Personal Computer (PC)

 Types of General Purpose Computers:

Supercomputer

Most powerful with fastest processing speeds

Special Purpose Computers

nA kiosk is a computer station that provides the public with specific and useful information and services.

Example:The Kindle

Telecommunications and Computer Networks

nTelecommunications are communications that take place electronically over a distance.

nA computer network is a telecommunications network that connects two or more computers for data communications.

The Internet and Web

nThe Internet is the world's largest public computer network, a network of networks, that provides a vast array of services.

nThe Web is an Internet service that provides convenient access to information through hyperlinks

Wireless networking

nWireless networks use radio signals rather than cables to connect users.

nWi-fi is a popular wireless standard.

The Computer and the Human relationship

Computation

nComputers were invented to compute – calculate solutions to mathematical problems.

Automation

nAutomation involves utilizing computers to control otherwise human actions and activities.

Communication

nComputer systems control, support, or provide many forms of communication.

¡E-mail

¡Instant messaging

¡Blogs

¡Social networking

Entertainment

nDigital technologies not only enrich people’s entertainment experiences, but also have revolutionized entertainment distribution.

Information

nA Computer-based
Information System (CBIS) uses these components to manage and distribute
information.

Information Systems and Information Technology

 

nIT can be defined as issues related to the components of a computer-based information system.

nSystems development is the activity of creating or modifying existing information systems.

Information System Types

•  Expert System
• Decision Support System
• Management Information System (MIS)
• E-commerce

Transaction processing System (TPS)

Information Security

nInformation security refers to the protection of information systems and the information they manage against unauthorized access, use, manipulation, or destruction, and against the denial of service to authorized users.

Does your brain hurt? Having a basic knowledge of the key terms and concepts of computers and technology helps to understand how computers function and in turn can assist with problem solving and trouble shooting.

Technology for Information Professionals

Hi all!
I've begun my summer class, Technology for Library Professionals! The summer semester moves so quickly since it's only 7 weeks and we've hit the ground running.  We've already covered a lot of terminology used in the field and yesterday in class I took a computer apart and put it back together again! I'll keep you posted on all the techie things I'm learning.  The first assignment is an interview with a Systems/Technology Librarian and it's due in only two weeks! It's a group project so my group is interviewing the Technology Librarian at Beatley Library from Simmons College! I'll let you know how it goes as I'm sure it will be fun and interesting!

What I'm Reading Now

Hi! I've completed the spring semester at Simmons and received A's in both classes, ending my first semester with a 4.0! I have a quick break and then I start my summer class (ugh) on June 13.  During my weeks off, I've been reading up a storm! Here are some good books I've read recently:

The weird sisters by Eleanor Brown
A well-written novel about three sisters named after heroines of the bard's famous plays by their Shakespeare Professor Dad.  When their Mom falls ill, the sisters all return to their childhood home to find that some things never change...but some things do...for the better.

Water for elephants by Sara Gruen
I didn't read this book when it came out, so when the movie version hit theaters, I figured it was time! The book hooked me from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down! The book tells us the story of Jacob Jankowski, a young man in veterinary school who loses everything he's known when his parents die in a car accident.  What ensues is an exciting tale of adventure, romance and murder when Jacob joins the Benzini Brothers traveling rail circus.

The red garden by Alice Hoffman
Alice Hoffman is one of my favorite authors and I always look forward to her books.  In her latest novel she weaves together stories of generations in the fictional Blackwell, Massachusetts.  The town carries secrets and the supernatural from one generation to the next.

The peach keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
A great summer read! In this quick but nicely written short novel, two totally different women are brought together by their grandmothers' pasts when a skeleton is found.  The writing is poetic at times and the book is filled with magical realism.

On the road by Jack Kerouac
I'm listening to this audio book in my car.  The book is a detailed journal account of Sal Paradise and his crazy friends as they travel across the U.S. and back again...and again...and again. 

The fates will find their way by Hannah Pittard
A coming of age tale that takes you into the adulthood of a group of male friends whose lives have been changed by a female friend that goes missing on Halloween night.