Friday, October 2, 2009
The Green Movement
Source: Monica Antoneli (2008) " The Green Library Movement: An Overview and Beyond". Electronic Journal Vol. 1: No. 27, Article 1.
http://repositories.cdlib.org/uclalib/egj/vol1/iss27/art1
Abstract:
Libraries are choosing to become green and sustainable. Like an epidemic, it continues to spread that gives rise into a movement among libraries.
This article looks back to the history of green movement and what have been done by libraries and library associations to support environmentalism. It explains reasons why we need to help lessen the impact of climatic change and be environment friendly.
Things learned:
1. Environmental challenges will influence the type of innovation resources and programs libraries will provide to their communities.
2. Communities need libraries and librarians to act as role models for sustainability by providing accurate information on all manner of green topics.
3. The government plays an important role for the success of this green revolution.
Reflection:
We are now experiencing the effects of climate changes. As librarians, it should start from us by being a green librarian. It should be both green libraries and green librarian in order to be sustainable. With this green library now in growing number, we should never compromise safety.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Computer Use and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Source:
Andersen, Johan Hvii (2003). Computer Use and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The Journal of the American Medical Association, vol. 289 no. 22, June 11, 2003. retrieved September 26, 2009
Abstract
With the constant use of computer today at home or office, we often undermine its negative effects such as eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, addiction, musculoskeletal disorder or nerve injuries. This article discusses the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The study aims to determine the contribution of weekly use of mouse devices and keyboards, work-related physical factors, work-related psychosocial factors, and individual characteristics in the occurrence and onset of possible CTS.
Things learned:
1. The CTS were not really the result of excessive used of computer devices but also with other medical disorder.
2. It is probable that tingling and numbness are common symptoms of either specific medical condition other than CTS or are part of a large burden of medically unexplained symptoms that reflect the stresses and strains of everyday life.
3. The excessive use of computer causes a lot of strain and stress.
REFLECTIONS
In using computer devices at home or at work it is important that we observe proper posture, position of the device and the use appropriate equipments. There are a lot of equipments ergonomically made to lessen stress at the work place. Lets put in mind that proper nutrition and rest is also very important in our everyday life.
Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003vvVol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003 Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003
Friday, September 18, 2009
The Philippine Rules on Electronic Evidence
Source:
Soriano, Jaime N. The Philippine Rules on electronic Evidence: An Outline. The Philippine IT Law Journal. retrieved September 18, 2009 from http://www.arellanolaw.net/publish/itlj-issue1_02.html
Abstract:
The article discusses court rules on electronic evidence of the Supreme court of the Philippines in accordance with e-Commerce Act of 2000. It outlines rules of legal acceptability, validity and legitimacy of recorded documents when presented in court. It poses factors to reconsider in determining evidentiary weight of electronic evidence namely;
- Reliability of manner or method in which it was generated, stored or communicated.
- Reliability of the manner in which the originator was identified.
- Integrity of the information and communication system in which it is recorded or stored.
- Familiarity of the system by the person who made the entry.
- The nature and quality of the information that went into the communication system where the electronic document was based.
- Other factors affecting accuracy and integrity of the electronic documents.
Lesson learned:
1. To test the authenticity of an electronic evidence, an expert must justify that the e-copy is a true copy of the original.
2. Electronic evidence alone can't be use in court. It should be supported by testimonies. It should be testified true by a person involved or a competent person like for example in presenting ephemeral electronic evidence like telephone conversations, text messages, chat sessions and other forms of communication that is not recorded or retained.
3. Video conferencing and other streaming technologies can be done in court provided that it is properly documented.
Reflection:
Reading the article reminds me of the controversial "hello Garci tape" and FPJ case. How these cases progress and died a natural death because of paucity of evidence integrity and a questionable authenticity of electronic documents presented.
As librarians (and archivists alike), it is important that we are bounded by professional ethics not by politics. In cases where we need to testify in court electronic evidence, authentic information must only presented. What is confidential must remained undisclosed unless needed by court.
Friday, September 11, 2009
e-Publishing
Source:
Project Gutenberg: The First Open Publishing Initiative. Information for Development, vol. vi, no. 2, February 2008. retrieved from http://i4donline.net/feb08/feb08.pdf on September 11, 2009.
Abstract:
The article discusses Project Gutenburg (PG) as the unique e-Project not only digitize, store and manage old books and rare manuscripts,but also to ensure transparency, originality and operational effectiveness for many authors, editors and publishers. Been operational in 1971,PG aims to create and distribute as many e-Books in as many formats as possible for the entire world to read in as many language as possible. PG fosters open access system and provides copyright free e-books for downloading. Importantly, PG's e-books are in plain text that c
an be read without specialized software or hardware.Things I Learned:
1. Internet users have important roles in development of e-publishing. Users can create, modify and change downloaded materials. Users can own and create edition of e-books (applications of Web 2.0 technologies). Users and readers can get to select books to digitize.
2. Can get e-publications of rare books freely.
3. A milestone in digitization and preservation of classic literature.
Reflection:
E-publication is an example of collaborative work. Like in open source software help from volunteers) is just one click away. With e-publications/e-publishing we can access world literature free of charge. Hope that this Project Gutenburg will serve as our inspiration to preserve and advertise to the world the heritage and culture of the Filipino people.
Friday, September 4, 2009
IRRI Library
Visiting IRRI library last August was a good experience. More than the fresh air and the close to nature experience, we have a chance to take a look at the library, IRRI's top of the line Millennium ILS with modules reliably support simple, everyday library transactions while at the same time meeting the demands of the most sophisticated cataloger, circulation manager, or web librarian (www.iii.com) and most importantly their exemplary practices and non-traditional ways of rendering services to its clienteles.
Enriched with information resources mostly in rice literature, IRRI library continually thrives to give first hand information to researchers here and abroad by utilizing Web 2.0 concepts. Faster communication is a key to good service. Incorporating Web 2.0 technologies like instant messaging, document delivery and networking, the library paved the way to reach a lot of clienteles world wide faster and economical. The availability of online catalog and rice databases with hyperlinks to full-text electronic databases (e-journals, open access resources) is very beneficial to a lot of their researchers. Equipped with good interface. One look at their library system, one can easily understand it and be usable by individuals even with minimal computer training. These made IRRI library away further from the rest.
Like other libraries, IRRI library thrives for its existence. High quality IRS does not come cheap. Its a challenge for them how to maintain a costly library system. One thing I've learned that despite all these constraints they never stop striving to make information available (even those expensive ones) and still they were able to render efficient service to their clienteles. True to their mission, they are not swayed by financial problems but instead they become even been more resourceful, innovative and creative. A great motivation for us who are just starting.
Foodie stuff: We will never forget the mouth watery Sinugno (its sweet gata you just want to have more) and the challenging suso; all those hungry catfishes (hito) waiting for anything to be devoured (especially the sili); and all those good memories we have in this trip.
Friday, August 14, 2009
The Internet Manifesto
Source:
The IFLA Internet Manifesto.2006. accessed August 13, 2009 from http://archive.ifla.org/lll/misc/im-e.htm
Abstract:
The IFLA Internet MAnifesto sets principles for libraries and information services particularly on the access to information; to unhindered access to the Internet with a goal to make information available to all. It clearly states that every human has the right to exercise information freedom, to have equality access to information and especially the right to use and the right to the access the Internet. According to this Manifesto, libraries and information services will serve as a channel to make these resources available, a venue for learning and educating users as well.
Lesson learned:
Lifting from the text:
1. Free access to the Internet. Access to the Internet in libraries and information services should be without charge.
2. Librarians should teach the users for responsible use of the Internet. Should provide the information and resources for library users to learn to use the Internet and electronic information efficiently and effectively.
3. Libraries and information services should proactively promote and facilitate responsible access to quality networked information for all users, including children and people.
Reflections
To able to exercise our right to seek and retrieve information from the Internet, the government or policy makers should developed policies that make access to the Internet inexpensive. Business interest should not dominate or control the Internet. Libraries and information services should keep in mind that in formulating policies in the use of the Internet users interests always comes first.
Friday, August 7, 2009
The Access Principle
Source:
Stasa, Milojević.(2007). Review: The Access Principle: The Case for Open Access to Research and Scholarship by John Willinsky. Interactions: UCLA Journal of Education and Information Studies. vol. 3, issue 1, article 11. from http://repositories.cdlib.org/gseis/interactions/vol3/iss1/art11 accessed August 7, 2009.
Abstract:
This article is a book review of The Access Principle: The Case for Open Access to Research and Scholarship by John Willinsky. The book revolves around the importance of open access or free availability to scholarly and scientific literature to research institutions particularly in developing countries where access to literature remains difficult. It addresses the issue on how to improve and provide access to knowledge by comparing present-day situation to the print evolution and the emergence of online journals. This well-researched and documented book does an excellent job of presenting a case for improved access and also provides models for how this can be achieved.
Lesson learned:
1. The value of increasing and improving access to journal literature is evident with the
development of new technologies and through the use of Internet.
2. Open access is not only directed toward increasing access to researchers but it is also
"about turning this knowledge into a greater vehicle of public education." To use research
to change the way in which information is sought and disseminated.
3. Open access can be used to further advance democratic participation among citizens.
Application:
Open access to scholarly and scientific researches indeed brought new advancement in researches and brought about new ideals and innovations. As in my case, I am working in an organization that engaged in urban environmental management researches and projects most especially in ecological sustainable sanitation, a new and emerging concept in the Philippines. We usually refer to researches done in other countries. As a resource center, we greatly benefit in online researches and publications of academic institutions and organizations local and foreign sharing the same advocacy. Because of these online reports, case studies, fact sheets, etc., we are open to latest developments and able to develop and able to cope up with the latest trends and issues in the use of sanitation systems and technologies. Also we are able to share our latest researches to the rest of the world. Open access has greatly improved exchange of information and has helped the organization in further studies.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Copyright
In the success of ejournals, libraries are now examining the idea of implementing ebooks in collection development strategy particularly in academic libraries. Acquiring ebooks rely heavily on license agreements. Libraries have been adept in the processes of acquiring ebooks that the interplay between licensing as a contractual arrangement and the statutory rights available under Canadian copyright law have not given much attention. Questions were raised on how these licensing agreements will affect on how ebooks can be used for teaching, learning, and research. The article examine areas in the provision of copyright that have importance in the libraries such as interlibrary loans, access to persons with disabilities and in preservation of ebooks. The article analyzes these issues and proposes strategies that libraries can adopt to ensure that fair dealing in Canadian copyright is not eroded by licensing agreements.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Web 2.0: New Methods for Libraries
Manness, Jack M. "Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implication for libraries".Webology, 3(2), June, 2006. available at http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html
The article discusses "Library 2.0". The definition, theory and the implications of integrating Web 2.0 technologies in the practice of librarianship. Library 2.0 theory poses four essential elements: it is user-centered; a multi-media experience; socially rich; and communally innovative. It recognizes implications that will change the course of history and mission of libraries especially in access and control of information. The article introduces Web 2.0 technologies such as synchronous messaging and streaming media, blogs, wikis, social networks, tagging, RSS feeds and mashups.
1. With Web2.0, you reach more users and a stimulus for information sharing.
2. With Web 2.0 exchange of information is more innovative, more interactive and much faster.
3. Libraries can now extend services virtually thus expands user community. Utilization of information is maximized and most importantly Web 2.0 fosters new opportunities for learning.
Web 2.0 opened new doors for libraries. These technologies greatly influenced library activities without us knowing it. It penetrated library realms and what we must do is embraced it willingly for it brings promising and substantial developments in improving our services and in reaching out library users. In the end we will able to say thanks for these innovative technologies for improving our lives.
Now that i know full well the concepts of Web 2.0 technologies, i am eager to explore what it can do to my library and how it can benefit me in expanding my library's horizon.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Information Ethics: Combating Information Age
Source:
Carbo, Toni and Stephen Almagno. "Information Ethics: The Duty, Priviledge and Challenge of Educating Information Professionals". Library Trends 49, no. 3(2001). Retrieved on July 10, 2009 from
http://www.ideals.uiuc.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/8351/librarytrendsv49i3j_opt.pdf?sequence=1
Abstract
Lesson learned:
- Information professionals must first learn to develop and hone their own individual sense of ethics, live an ethical life and be educated about ethical issues in the workplace.
- Knowing how to create, find, manage, access, preserve, and use information effectively gives a sense of power or control to information professional.
- Courses on information ethics must be part of the education of information professionals. These should provide an understanding of ethical theories and how they apply to concrete practical cases and should also make explicit connection between information ethics and the mission of the library professional.
Everyday we are confronted with issues related to information access and use that may involve balancing individual and societal needs. Issues like protecting both an individual's privacy and public's right to know. As a librarian, it is important to know what are the issues and concerns of the library in order for us to know how to deal and resolve issues without compromising our values and beliefs. We have to stand our grounds and not to be easily swayed with cultural differences and with existing traditions in the workplace and conflicts in our own individual values with issues related to libraries. And we should have good working knowledge of information ethics in order to deal with ethical issues effectively.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Information to People: Information Seeking Behavior
Source Article:
Johnstone, David, Mary Tate.Bringing human information behavior into information systems research: an application of systems modelling. Information Research, vol. 9, n0. 4, July 2004. Retrieved July 2, 2009, from http://informationr.net/ir/9-4/paper191.html.
"Information seeking", "information use" and "information searching" are terms modernly use to describe ways of how people acquire and interact with information. This is the focus of David Johnstone and Mary Tate as they introduce Human Information Behavior, a new perspective in Library and Information Science that encompasses all forms of information seeking and use, including social networks, group dynamics and activities that accurately describe how people relate to information. Basically it discusses the process of how people behave and interact with received information. This is in response to the issues raised by Dervin and Dilan (1986) that the paradigm that is human-centered, situational, constructivist and holistic is essential for studying the process by which people interact with the information in their environment is incompatible with traditional approaches in Information Systems. Systems modelling were proposed to develop a research framework for different approaches and that addressed the points raised by Dervin and Dilan.
In reading this article, i have learned that:
- In seeking information, making decisions and forming opinions, people tend to process information in their personal context, according to the relevance of retrieved information to their needs.
- Information seeking as a complex, holistic process in which researchers have to coordinate a diverse set of techniques to locate, retrieve and process information
- Information processes are best explained in a group context as appeared to examinations of the storage and its retrieval by individuals.
In the midst of fast growing technology and in the advent of the Internet, as an information manager, i come to realize that getting precise and relevant information greatly influence our attitude towards information as indicated by Johnstone and Tate. It gives me confidence on how i understand, process and use information. This is far from what i am supposed to read but for me it has some significant aspect in library service. We know that the end-users perspective is always our first consideration in formulating IS and we devise our plans according to the needs of our clients. Lifting from the text, i just want to state that:
"...how individuals approach and handle information. This includes searching for it, using it, modifying it, sharing it, hoarding it, even ignoring it. Consequently, when we manage information behavior, we're attempting to improve the overall effectiveness of an organization's information environment through concerted action." (Davenport, 1997: 83-84)