Seminar at RMIT 14th May 2008 : Brimbank Public Libraries

Seminar at RMIT 14th May 2008 : Brimbank Public Libraris
Information Night: 23 Items/Web 2.0
RMIT Library : Wednesday 14th May 2008

3. Brimbank Public Libraries
Introduced by Chritian West : christianwe@brimbank.vic.gov.au

- A single council library network : 5 libraries including Sunshine & Deer Park
- 170,00 residents : large proportion of residents are non-English speaking and also a considerable refugee population
- Very low computer usage by population : Area has very low take-up of Broadband connections - lowest/2nd lowest in Victoria

23-items/Web 2.0:
- Staff of 90 : 55 started Web 2.0 and 23 have completed
- Staff were encouraged by training sessions
- All staff were enthused and showed interest; even if they didn't take up Web 2.0
- Library system has one internal Wiki : a big opportunity for staff

Use open source : Joomla (chosen for its multi-lingual capabilities)
- the support from Joomla has been fantastic
- check out : http://developmentbrimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au
- combine activities : google maps (ability to place 'pins' in maps to locate libraries)
RSS feeds,
on-line chat :available weekdays in a 2-hour block during 'Homework Help'

Social Networking :
- Previous blog used mainly by Readers Advisors - not really appropriate for local residents as they are not IT savvy
- Now use 'Quick Pick' - and this is generating interest
- have bookmarked 'Delicious'
- have entered individual libraries as a 'Facebook' account
- The Wall : news items; library classes etc.

* Web 2.0 : 'Basecamp' - a Project Management tool : is fantastic as staff able to work from home
* Library system does not use 'Youtube' because of low internet usage in area
* Able to recommend 'google.docs' for community groups who need to document minutes or reports.
* library uses external servers due to access to updates and free availablility
* Staff ideas wiki : has had low usage but have received ideas from unexpected people

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Comments:
A very interesting evening with speakers who showed just how varied are our patrons; and what the diverse range of libraries who have taken up Web 2.0/23 items.