After finishing the 23 mobile things this spring, I decided to try the Disco Tech 2.0 this fall. I admit I wasn' t too sure about the first one because I told myself that I know everything about these things. 23 mobile things taught me there are always surprises. I do have experience with the activities so far, but I hope to go about them in new ways.
As someone who can suggest online resources to others, I am eager to learn everything I can about these.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Saturday, April 26, 2014
23 mobile things mn #23 THE END :)
After finishing my 23 mobile things experience, I have learned more about using my Iphone. Some of the activities were things I already knew about, but I didn't know about infographics and the presentations tools for example. I'm not sure if I will use my phone for creating presentations, but knowing that I can allows me to tell others and answer questions. I am also more open to using my phone during my off time to enrich and enhance what I do during the day.
My favorite discoveries would have to be that apps gone free app from #22 and the photo app from #9. I plan on using my iphone as my primary camera, especially when traveling. The ability to edit my photos without having to transfer them to another computer is huge. The apps gone free app, as I said in a previous post, lets me discover new apps in an easy way. The app also limits the selections to apps that are highly rated and useful. I actually found a couple this way that I still use.
I did talk about the experience with Jean C-N here at Hayden, and we went through the course together. We were able to banter back and forth over what apps we chose to talk about and what we thought about each one. I also was able to help her with her Ipad when she got stuck, especially at the beginning.
If something like this was offered in the future, I would probably participate. It would be more interesting to offer the list of categories and allow participants to pick which ones they wanted to do. There were categories this time that I already knew about as well as ones new to me. One category missing would be travel apps. These could be city guides, not just booking apps. Maybe also look at library apps or local apps from another state.
Finally, if I had to describe my experience in one word it would be "Inspiring". It's always nice to learn something new when you didn't expect to. Especially about the latest technology. Thanks for the opportunity to learn something new!
My favorite discoveries would have to be that apps gone free app from #22 and the photo app from #9. I plan on using my iphone as my primary camera, especially when traveling. The ability to edit my photos without having to transfer them to another computer is huge. The apps gone free app, as I said in a previous post, lets me discover new apps in an easy way. The app also limits the selections to apps that are highly rated and useful. I actually found a couple this way that I still use.
I did talk about the experience with Jean C-N here at Hayden, and we went through the course together. We were able to banter back and forth over what apps we chose to talk about and what we thought about each one. I also was able to help her with her Ipad when she got stuck, especially at the beginning.
If something like this was offered in the future, I would probably participate. It would be more interesting to offer the list of categories and allow participants to pick which ones they wanted to do. There were categories this time that I already knew about as well as ones new to me. One category missing would be travel apps. These could be city guides, not just booking apps. Maybe also look at library apps or local apps from another state.
Finally, if I had to describe my experience in one word it would be "Inspiring". It's always nice to learn something new when you didn't expect to. Especially about the latest technology. Thanks for the opportunity to learn something new!
Friday, April 25, 2014
23 mobile things #22
This time, I am looking at ways to get free apps on the Iphone. From my experience, the app store doesn't really tell you if the free apps are worth it without downloading them first. This leaves me with the options of using google or finding an app that tells you about free apps. I have done both successfully, but like the second option better. There is another option I sometimes use, which is watching Feedly to figure out apps that have gone free for a limited time. This is how I found out about Knots 3D, which I covered in my previous post.
Apps gone free is the app I chose off the list given. Every day, different apps that meet certain standards show up as free downloads. A nice description is given, making it easy to tell if the app is worth it. With 2 clicks, the app is downloaded and ready to go.
I did find at least 2 apps that I kept. One is called Vert and is a unit converter with more options than I can ever use. The other is a break-out style game called Anodia. This seems to be a fun game so far.
Personally, this is a nice way to keep up with free apps, and I have always found something new. They may be apps I would have never considered searching for. Not every app is worth it, but there is usually something worth looking into.
Apps gone free is the app I chose off the list given. Every day, different apps that meet certain standards show up as free downloads. A nice description is given, making it easy to tell if the app is worth it. With 2 clicks, the app is downloaded and ready to go.
I did find at least 2 apps that I kept. One is called Vert and is a unit converter with more options than I can ever use. The other is a break-out style game called Anodia. This seems to be a fun game so far.
Personally, this is a nice way to keep up with free apps, and I have always found something new. They may be apps I would have never considered searching for. Not every app is worth it, but there is usually something worth looking into.
23 mobile things #21
Since this a free-for-all category, I looked at every app I have to determnine which one was the most fun to write about. I finally decided on Knots3D. Though this app is currently 99 cents, it was free when I downloaded it to try it out.
The app has a list of 94 knots for use in various situations. When you look at a knot, there are step by step instructions. There is also a 3D image of the knot as it's being tied that you can rewind and look at from mutliple views. The knot can also be shown in full screen mode.
This app is useful for both personal and professional reasons. If a patron were to come up to the desk and ask how to tie a certain knot that is on the list, I could show on my phone the correct way and let him/her see it a couple of times. I would then print out a list of instructions, but the ability to see it being tied up close is too cool.
The app has a list of 94 knots for use in various situations. When you look at a knot, there are step by step instructions. There is also a 3D image of the knot as it's being tied that you can rewind and look at from mutliple views. The knot can also be shown in full screen mode.
This app is useful for both personal and professional reasons. If a patron were to come up to the desk and ask how to tie a certain knot that is on the list, I could show on my phone the correct way and let him/her see it a couple of times. I would then print out a list of instructions, but the ability to see it being tied up close is too cool.
23 mobile things #20
I am now to the games portion of the 23 mobile things experience! Ever since I had a cellphone, I have always tried to have some games to play. The iphone is no different. I probably have a good dozen games or more going at any one time. This includes everything from card games to yahtzee to crossword puzzles to bingo to slots etc.
Some of these games can be highly addictive if you're not careful. Candy Crush is the most addictive of the free games I tried. Though I can resist buying in-app purchases, I always felt the need to try the level one more time to beat it. I would have to remind myself to put it down after breaks and at night. I finally decided that enough was enough and deleted it from my iphone. There is always temptation, as you can redownload past purchases, but so far I have resisted.
My new addiction would be Bingo Blitz. This game has bingo, slots, and things to win. There are in app purchases, but you can also request items from your bingo friends. I played it on Facebook first, so I was familiar with the game already. I just can't figure out how to limit my requests from friends to target certain people.
These are just two of the games that I use or have used on a regular basis. I of course would not play games at work, but I do during breaks and on the bus. The fun thing about the free games is that if you don't like something you can always delete it and download something else.
Some of these games can be highly addictive if you're not careful. Candy Crush is the most addictive of the free games I tried. Though I can resist buying in-app purchases, I always felt the need to try the level one more time to beat it. I would have to remind myself to put it down after breaks and at night. I finally decided that enough was enough and deleted it from my iphone. There is always temptation, as you can redownload past purchases, but so far I have resisted.
My new addiction would be Bingo Blitz. This game has bingo, slots, and things to win. There are in app purchases, but you can also request items from your bingo friends. I played it on Facebook first, so I was familiar with the game already. I just can't figure out how to limit my requests from friends to target certain people.
These are just two of the games that I use or have used on a regular basis. I of course would not play games at work, but I do during breaks and on the bus. The fun thing about the free games is that if you don't like something you can always delete it and download something else.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
23 mobile things # 19
For the hobbies app, I chose to write about College Hockey News. I am a big fan of Gopher sports and follow the teams whenever possible. This includes football season tickets and a goal of at least seeing one football, one basketball and one hockey game a year. Because of this, I am eager to use an app that will let me keep track of my team throughout the season.
I chose college hockey news because it gives scores, news and standings throughout the year. It updates in near realtime and even alerts me to goals scored by and against my team through sounds.
I don't use this professionally, unless specifically asked for the score. I do use it personally, especially if I am at work during the game. I set it to vibrate and check it during my break. It is a nice way to keep up with my favorite team.
I chose college hockey news because it gives scores, news and standings throughout the year. It updates in near realtime and even alerts me to goals scored by and against my team through sounds.
I don't use this professionally, unless specifically asked for the score. I do use it personally, especially if I am at work during the game. I set it to vibrate and check it during my break. It is a nice way to keep up with my favorite team.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
23 mobile things #18
For the education app mobile thing, I decided to try wikipanion. It is similar to the wikipedia app listed and seems to work better on my phone. In the past, whenever I downloaded the wikipedia app, it would freeze or take too long to load. I gave up and tried the free wikipanion app. For the most part, it works great. The app is like accessing wikipedia in look and performance.
I am able to type in a topic and suggested options would appear below the text. Sometimes it would not find what I am looking for. In that case, I would use safari and try wikipedia there. In most cases, there would simply be no wikipedia page for that topic. The app also has a history feature so I can find places I've been to before.
I have used this personally alot to understand various topics as they come up and answer reference questions. If the internet were down, I would definitely use this at work as a backup.
I have also used google earth. It is entertaining but I stopped using it because the computer version is easier.
I am able to type in a topic and suggested options would appear below the text. Sometimes it would not find what I am looking for. In that case, I would use safari and try wikipedia there. In most cases, there would simply be no wikipedia page for that topic. The app also has a history feature so I can find places I've been to before.
I have used this personally alot to understand various topics as they come up and answer reference questions. If the internet were down, I would definitely use this at work as a backup.
I have also used google earth. It is entertaining but I stopped using it because the computer version is easier.
23 mobile things #17
This thing is about connecting to the community. In that spirit, I chose the going out app by the Star Tribune for my Iphone. I sometimes need information on things to see and do and find it's much easier to find it on my phone than have to find a paper or computer. This app is also easy to use. You can narrow by category and date.
Another app I used was the Saint Paul Connect. That is interesting because it allows you to report problems with potholes to the city. This year, this tends to be more useful in other years. Apparently, if enough people complain something will get done. The connect app does have a nice feature that lists neighbors, but they are listed by screen name. I was able to report a pothole and agree with another report however. I would use both personally but not professionally. I have found things to do using the one and successfully complained by using the other one. I would talk about them as suggestions in certain specific situations however.
Another app I used was the Saint Paul Connect. That is interesting because it allows you to report problems with potholes to the city. This year, this tends to be more useful in other years. Apparently, if enough people complain something will get done. The connect app does have a nice feature that lists neighbors, but they are listed by screen name. I was able to report a pothole and agree with another report however. I would use both personally but not professionally. I have found things to do using the one and successfully complained by using the other one. I would talk about them as suggestions in certain specific situations however.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
23 mobile things thing # 16
Before my current iphone I would never think about recording sound and sharing it. Now I think it would be fun to record storytimes or other programming that can be used as publicity or a way to get better. I would record myself and share it for comments or critiques from other librarians.
I used soundcloud for this and found it easy to use. There is literally a nice big red record button. You can also follow others and have them follow you. I did look up a jimmy buffett song and share it under inspiration. It seems like it would be easy enough to share with a select group. Very nice to use.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
23 mobile things #15
I have heard of infographics before but never seemed to have any use for them outside of my own knowledge. Though I don't get asked for this type of information on a daily basis it may come up.
In that spirit I tried info.graphics on my iphone. It worked for a short while but has since stopped. I did find another one called lemonly that is an infographic app put out by an ad firm. I can't create any but I can see some fun ideas to see how it's done. In my current situation this is all I need.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
23 mobile things #14
Other than using the standard camera, I have never thought to do videos on my cell phone. My past phones didn't have the capability to do so, and I never had the occasion to do so. After working in the library, I have found cases where it might be a fun and useful tool. Now that I have an Iphone 5, I have the power as well.
In looking at the various apps listed, I chose to try socialcam. It seemed to be the easiest to work with and it was. I just had to hit a big red button and the phone became a video camera. I liked how easy it was to add a theme and music. I could also tag the people in it and send it to facebook if I wanted.
The video I shot was a few seconds long but I could see using this as a project or even taping a class or speaker. I even love that it can be emailed or sent to youtube.
In looking at the various apps listed, I chose to try socialcam. It seemed to be the easiest to work with and it was. I just had to hit a big red button and the phone became a video camera. I liked how easy it was to add a theme and music. I could also tag the people in it and send it to facebook if I wanted.
The video I shot was a few seconds long but I could see using this as a project or even taping a class or speaker. I even love that it can be emailed or sent to youtube.
Friday, April 11, 2014
23 mobile things #13
When thinking back on all of the presentation tools I used in school, I had some idea on what I wanted for a presentations Iphone app. It had to be similar to both Jing and Powerpoint and still be usable. After looking at the choices, I came upon Deck.
After trying to create a presentation, I found that the app gives me choices, including the ability to create charts and add images. I can also change the theme and layout, though most cost extra. It seems to be like a basic Powerpoint like tool. The only thing I wish it had was the ability to add video. I could then tape myself doing whatever I want to show and play it back. This would be wonderful when trying to explain how to use databases and advanced search.
This seems to be a viable option if I ever needed to create a presentation on the fly in order to teach classes and I can't get powerpoint. However, Office is now available for free on the Iphone so that should be considered when choosing a presentation app. I haven't tested Powerpoint but that may give Deck a run for its money.
After trying to create a presentation, I found that the app gives me choices, including the ability to create charts and add images. I can also change the theme and layout, though most cost extra. It seems to be like a basic Powerpoint like tool. The only thing I wish it had was the ability to add video. I could then tape myself doing whatever I want to show and play it back. This would be wonderful when trying to explain how to use databases and advanced search.
This seems to be a viable option if I ever needed to create a presentation on the fly in order to teach classes and I can't get powerpoint. However, Office is now available for free on the Iphone so that should be considered when choosing a presentation app. I haven't tested Powerpoint but that may give Deck a run for its money.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
23 mobile things #12
When looking at the choices for this topic I was tempted to try the audiobooks, as that would be nice on the bus ride to work. However, knowing how little experience I have with teen and young adult books, I chose the YALSA app. While I'm talking to a patron about book ideas, I could be looking at my phone for more ideas.
When using the YALSA app, I wasn't sure if it was a work in progress because parts didn't seem to work. If you look under book title, anything you select will result in a book not found message. If you look for the same book in any other way it works. I also like the variety of ways to search for books.
I tried using the find it part of the app. That also doesn't seem to work so well. In addition to assuming I am in Saint Paul Kansas, it can't show books available in the SPPL system. Instead, it directs me to college libraries and other county libraries.
I would use this app for informational and idea purposes, being careful to not search by title. I would then use Sierra or Mnlink on the computer to find the exact location of the book. Otherwise, it looks like a fun app.
When using the YALSA app, I wasn't sure if it was a work in progress because parts didn't seem to work. If you look under book title, anything you select will result in a book not found message. If you look for the same book in any other way it works. I also like the variety of ways to search for books.
I tried using the find it part of the app. That also doesn't seem to work so well. In addition to assuming I am in Saint Paul Kansas, it can't show books available in the SPPL system. Instead, it directs me to college libraries and other county libraries.
I would use this app for informational and idea purposes, being careful to not search by title. I would then use Sierra or Mnlink on the computer to find the exact location of the book. Otherwise, it looks like a fun app.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
23 mobile things #11
For this post, I looked at the elm4you.org website on my Iphone, as well as the library apps for Saint Paul, Ramsey County, and Hennepin County. These are a real time saver when helping patrons, especially if I'm away from the reference desk or the internet goes down.
Elm4you.org looks almost the same whether on a mobile device or the desktop. In fact, I think the mobile version is easier to use. Once you click the research now, it gives you a list of mobile friendly databases that work nicely.
What I would use day to day, though, is the mobile apps from the 3 library systems named above. There are times when I am away from the desk or at home and want to know which library has which book or dvd. I can easily find that out and even request from the app.
What I would hope for is a Mnlink app that can be used for inter-library loans without having to be on a desktop computer. I would assume that the same rules apply, but it would make things easier for patrons to get the materials they want.
Elm4you.org looks almost the same whether on a mobile device or the desktop. In fact, I think the mobile version is easier to use. Once you click the research now, it gives you a list of mobile friendly databases that work nicely.
What I would use day to day, though, is the mobile apps from the 3 library systems named above. There are times when I am away from the desk or at home and want to know which library has which book or dvd. I can easily find that out and even request from the app.
What I would hope for is a Mnlink app that can be used for inter-library loans without having to be on a desktop computer. I would assume that the same rules apply, but it would make things easier for patrons to get the materials they want.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
23 mobile things thing #10
For the tenth mobile thing, the topic is sharing photos. For this, I looked at Instagram as a possibility. As I said in my last post, I use my Iphone for any pictures I take on vacation or day to day. I usually share my photos through text message, or occasionally Facebook. This doesn't seem workable as a permanent solution because I would either have to text everyone and have their phone numbers or post for the world to see. If I could limit it to who is following me, I could feel more comfortable with the sharing process.
After registering with Instagram, I found that many of my Facebook friends are already actively sharing their pics. I found out that even Prince has an Instagram account, which is really cool. I lingered around and finally decided to share a test photo of my birthday cake. I posted it both on Facebook and Instagram and was surprised by the results. It seems that I get more feedback and "like"s on Facebook. I realized that it's probably because I don't have many followers on Instagram yet.
Since I don't use Twitter though I do have an account, Instagram is probably my best choice for sharing photos I don't want the public to see necessarily. I'm not sure I would actually use it in the library, but in day to day life it will be fun and interesting to use.
After registering with Instagram, I found that many of my Facebook friends are already actively sharing their pics. I found out that even Prince has an Instagram account, which is really cool. I lingered around and finally decided to share a test photo of my birthday cake. I posted it both on Facebook and Instagram and was surprised by the results. It seems that I get more feedback and "like"s on Facebook. I realized that it's probably because I don't have many followers on Instagram yet.
Since I don't use Twitter though I do have an account, Instagram is probably my best choice for sharing photos I don't want the public to see necessarily. I'm not sure I would actually use it in the library, but in day to day life it will be fun and interesting to use.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
23 mobile things thing #9
For this mobile thing, I looked at different apps to make taking pictures easier on my Iphone. I use my Iphone as my primary camera and would love to find ways of making fun pictures for displays and promotional materials. I tried Linecamera, CamMe and one called TimerCam.
I first tried to use CamMe. When taking a picture, it was hard to get it to recognize my hand. I probably should have tried to set my camera down further away. I could get it to work somewhat but instead decided to try TimerCam next. TimerCam works in the same way as CamMe, but there is a timer that can be set before the picture is taken. This seems to work better for me than having to raise your hand.
The editing app I tried was Linecamera. This was a fun app that let me combine pics, add words, add background and do other things. I would use it for fun pics both in and outside the library. There are so many different ways to change things that it is very useful.
After using these apps, I feel that my Iphone will continue to be my only camera for everything. They really work well together.
I first tried to use CamMe. When taking a picture, it was hard to get it to recognize my hand. I probably should have tried to set my camera down further away. I could get it to work somewhat but instead decided to try TimerCam next. TimerCam works in the same way as CamMe, but there is a timer that can be set before the picture is taken. This seems to work better for me than having to raise your hand.
The editing app I tried was Linecamera. This was a fun app that let me combine pics, add words, add background and do other things. I would use it for fun pics both in and outside the library. There are so many different ways to change things that it is very useful.
After using these apps, I feel that my Iphone will continue to be my only camera for everything. They really work well together.
Monday, March 10, 2014
23 mobile things- thing #8
I tend to sign up for many social media sites but either forget to use them or decide against it. The only 2 I use regularily are facebook and linkedin. I do have a twitter account but it's been years since I used it. I do have both the facebook and linkedin mobile apps and check them quite frequently.
I downloaded Hootsuite to see if being able to check both facebook and linkedin at the same time would be helpful or not. It is easy to refresh the feeds and get the info, but I couldn't figure out how to post or comment on anything like I can in regular facebook. Also, it seems geared to someone with a twitter account.
Though I like the idea of Hootsuite, it doesn't seem to be as useful to me as it could be. I would rather check the few apps I have. For professional development and networking, I would probably stick with linkedin. However, I do welcome any librarian friends on facebook.
I downloaded Hootsuite to see if being able to check both facebook and linkedin at the same time would be helpful or not. It is easy to refresh the feeds and get the info, but I couldn't figure out how to post or comment on anything like I can in regular facebook. Also, it seems geared to someone with a twitter account.
Though I like the idea of Hootsuite, it doesn't seem to be as useful to me as it could be. I would rather check the few apps I have. For professional development and networking, I would probably stick with linkedin. However, I do welcome any librarian friends on facebook.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
23 mobile things: thing #7
For this part of the experience, I decided to try Bitly. I had already used Delicious in library school to save bookmarks for a project and hoped that Bitly would be the same thing. It would be nice to be able to save my favorite websites and access them wherever I went. However, neither Bitly nor Delicious worked for me. I couldn't figure out how to import my Firefox bookmarks into Bitly and there was no help for that.
I did find out I could transfer bookmarks from Delicious to Bitly. Unfortunately, when I logged into Delicious, every one of my links is duplicated and I can't erase the duplicates. Also, Firefox is incompatible so I can't import those.
It seems to me that Bitly, Firefox and Delicious should be compatible with each other. Otherwise there doesn't seem to be a point in content sharing. I could use Pinterest, but I had more experience with Delicious and thet type of application.
I did find out I could transfer bookmarks from Delicious to Bitly. Unfortunately, when I logged into Delicious, every one of my links is duplicated and I can't erase the duplicates. Also, Firefox is incompatible so I can't import those.
It seems to me that Bitly, Firefox and Delicious should be compatible with each other. Otherwise there doesn't seem to be a point in content sharing. I could use Pinterest, but I had more experience with Delicious and thet type of application.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
23 mobile things- thing #6!
This time I looked at Quick Office as a way of editing and saving documents on my Iphone. I have always used Google Drive and Gmail to send and save documents I want to use elsewhere. Before Quick Office, I would have to download my documents to my laptop to make any changes before uploading back to Google. I could never edit anything unless I emailed it to myself first.
After using Quick Office, it has gotten better. Though not perfect, it is a nice step in the right direction. I am able to create and edit files on the go and save them to my cloud drive. I can even create a powerpoint on the bus and finish it at work. I love I have used it to edit lists of things I need to do or books I want to get. I love the way you can track the changes made and center the text.
The only problems I see with Quick Office are the limitations. There is no way to see or add page numbers or change the margins. It would be nice to be able to insert pictures into the document as well. Maybe, at least for the Iphone version, one could insert things saved to Photos. This could be cleared up in another version. I know that it can never be the same as Office, but these could make things better. All in All, this is a great use of mobile technology as long as you get used to the Iphone keyboard.
After using Quick Office, it has gotten better. Though not perfect, it is a nice step in the right direction. I am able to create and edit files on the go and save them to my cloud drive. I can even create a powerpoint on the bus and finish it at work. I love I have used it to edit lists of things I need to do or books I want to get. I love the way you can track the changes made and center the text.
The only problems I see with Quick Office are the limitations. There is no way to see or add page numbers or change the margins. It would be nice to be able to insert pictures into the document as well. Maybe, at least for the Iphone version, one could insert things saved to Photos. This could be cleared up in another version. I know that it can never be the same as Office, but these could make things better. All in All, this is a great use of mobile technology as long as you get used to the Iphone keyboard.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
23 mobile things thing# 5- notetaking
While I use my iphone for many things, note taking is usually not one of them. When I do, the app that came with the phone is used, mainly to remember certain things. However, I did have Dragon on my old phone and looked into using it again at the library.
The problem with Dragon for me is that I would need to find a quiet place to use it. Because it relies on the microphone, it either picks up other conversations or doesn't recognize my note. When I used it before, it was to send texts without having to type it in. However, I now have Siri to do that. Otherwise, I would try the voice memo app for notes during meetings.
When thinking about how I would use the Iphone for keeping organized lists personally, I like my current set up and do not plan on changing it. The various apps listed would work depending on the needs of the individual user.
The problem with Dragon for me is that I would need to find a quiet place to use it. Because it relies on the microphone, it either picks up other conversations or doesn't recognize my note. When I used it before, it was to send texts without having to type it in. However, I now have Siri to do that. Otherwise, I would try the voice memo app for notes during meetings.
When thinking about how I would use the Iphone for keeping organized lists personally, I like my current set up and do not plan on changing it. The various apps listed would work depending on the needs of the individual user.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
23 mobile things thing #4
When using an RSS feeder to keep up with the news and other information, I used to use google reader. I was able to check on it through the web easily. When that left, I tried many other possibilities until I landed on Feedly. It doesn't work with internet explorer, but it does have a free Iphone app you can download. Until I got to this point in the 23 mobile things, I was content using this alone.
For this, I downloaded and tried Flipboard. The setup was fine, and I am able to view what I want. I was reluctant to try it because I am used to Feedly and can get all my news and technology info that way. However, after trying Flipboard, it does have things that Feedly doesn't. One example is the ability to see new books that are coming out as well as current books in categories such as reference, travel and nonfiction. This lets me keep up to date. This way, when I get asked for certain books, I have a clue about what it is.
My thought is that I will use both Feedly and Flipboard in the future. For times when I want to see quick and up to date news without extra stuff, I use Feedly. When I have time to read through multiple sources to get what I want, as well as look at things to help professionally, I will use Flipboard. Between the two, I should be able to stay well informed and in touch with the world. This is the point of the applications involved.
For this, I downloaded and tried Flipboard. The setup was fine, and I am able to view what I want. I was reluctant to try it because I am used to Feedly and can get all my news and technology info that way. However, after trying Flipboard, it does have things that Feedly doesn't. One example is the ability to see new books that are coming out as well as current books in categories such as reference, travel and nonfiction. This lets me keep up to date. This way, when I get asked for certain books, I have a clue about what it is.
My thought is that I will use both Feedly and Flipboard in the future. For times when I want to see quick and up to date news without extra stuff, I use Feedly. When I have time to read through multiple sources to get what I want, as well as look at things to help professionally, I will use Flipboard. Between the two, I should be able to stay well informed and in touch with the world. This is the point of the applications involved.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
23 mobile things- thing#3 utilities
For this blog, I downloaded Red Laser. At first glance, I was hesitant because it didn't seem useful. However, after scanning a few barcodes for different products, I changed my mind. Personally, I could use it to track the ads and sales for a certain item and even check prices online. It also lets me scan qr codes and opens them in Safari. Professionally, I could use it to create qr codes to advertise library programs and events. I could also use the scanner to check prices for people if they would rather buy an item instead of check it out, or if the library can't get it any longer. Another utility app I found and use is called iCatchall: 27+ apps in one. The most useful parts of this is the currency converter, the tip calculator, and the level. It also tells you when the next full moon is and has many fun sounds and games. Considering it's free, the price is well worth it.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
23 mobile things- thing#2
When thinking about my iphone 5, the tips given are really useful. Another one would be how to get the flashlight to work, through swiping up and choosing the right button. When closing apps by holding the home button and swiping each one, it is possible to do it sideways by sliding your finger to the right. Two can be closed at once as well. The tips shared allow me to make the best use of my iphone. Probably the only thing I still don't know how to do would be transfering pictures to a computer directly without using itunes.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
23 things- thing 1
By doing this program, I hope to learn more about the technology available. In this way, I can improve the library service I provide.
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