Keeping Track of Green Libraries
Pinkowski, Jennifer. Keeping track of Green Libraries. Library Journal. 2007.
http//www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6475365.html
Abstract
The concept about greening the library was clearly introduced with its new resource - Green Libraries (online site). Along with its promotion, some ways are practiced by different libraries: (1) rooftop solar panels to generate 15,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, (2) natural day lighting and chemical free fabrics and materials to entrance indoor air quality, (3) rainwater collection tanks that irrigate the trees that provide natural shade and heat reduction. The author does not view environmental and economic changes as threats but as an opportunity for libraries to develop new and exciting ways to support their local communities.
What I have learned:
1. Greening the library is one of the solution for the environmental and economical crisis we are facing.
2. Green Libraries – a new online resource for creating an environmentally sensitive library.
3. Permaculture – (permanent + culture combination) it uses ecology for the basis of designing integrated systems of food production, housing, technology and development.
Implication/Application:
Since I don’t have the authority or power to insist rules or do what I want to do from the library I am working with about the idea of greening the library, one way is to lead by example. By simply recycling materials (papers) that are worth to be used is one way. I also turn off unnecessary lights and electronic equipment to save electricity. In our institution that has not enough budget, it is very essential to save and conserve water and electricity and make the most of our resources.
“God can forgive, man can forgive but nature does not.”
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Reading assignment (for September 26, 2009)
Computers Responsible for many Health Concerns
Park, Ellie. Computers responsible for many health concerns. San Fernando Valley Business Journal. 2003.
URL: http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/workplace-health-safety-employment/641313-1.html
Abstract
Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) or also called as repetitive stress disorders were defined as disorders caused by working too much on computers and without having enough knowledge about it. The article states that prevention is the solution for all the health problems concerned about computers. Exercises like stretching is one good tip to avoid such health problems especially the application of ergonomics to workstations set up to serve workers.
What I have learned:
1. Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) or also known as repetitive stress disorders.
2. Ergonomically correct workstation helps to improve painful situations quickly.
3. The key to all problems about health concerns on computer use is by prevention. A simple exercise for wrists and body parts and taking regular breaks while typing is one of the basic tips to avoid stress through the use of computers.
Implications/Application:
Just like in any other libraries there are two types of tasks in the library where I am working: the mechanical and technical processes. It is really impossible that I will not use computers because this is a big part in my every day routine work. At the end of the day, sometimes I feel back pains and tired painful eyes. I learned from this incident so every time I do my work on the computer, I make sure that the chair where I am going to sit is very comfortable. I also do a little stretching of my arms before and after I type and I applied my readings in an article from a magazine which advises to blink the eye many times to keep it lubricated and to look around to surroundings every 15 minutes. The best thing one can do, as the article suggested, is to be responsible to keep good health and posture of oneself. In addition to that I always bear in my mind that prevention is better that cure.
Park, Ellie. Computers responsible for many health concerns. San Fernando Valley Business Journal. 2003.
URL: http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/workplace-health-safety-employment/641313-1.html
Abstract
Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) or also called as repetitive stress disorders were defined as disorders caused by working too much on computers and without having enough knowledge about it. The article states that prevention is the solution for all the health problems concerned about computers. Exercises like stretching is one good tip to avoid such health problems especially the application of ergonomics to workstations set up to serve workers.
What I have learned:
1. Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTD) or also known as repetitive stress disorders.
2. Ergonomically correct workstation helps to improve painful situations quickly.
3. The key to all problems about health concerns on computer use is by prevention. A simple exercise for wrists and body parts and taking regular breaks while typing is one of the basic tips to avoid stress through the use of computers.
Implications/Application:
Just like in any other libraries there are two types of tasks in the library where I am working: the mechanical and technical processes. It is really impossible that I will not use computers because this is a big part in my every day routine work. At the end of the day, sometimes I feel back pains and tired painful eyes. I learned from this incident so every time I do my work on the computer, I make sure that the chair where I am going to sit is very comfortable. I also do a little stretching of my arms before and after I type and I applied my readings in an article from a magazine which advises to blink the eye many times to keep it lubricated and to look around to surroundings every 15 minutes. The best thing one can do, as the article suggested, is to be responsible to keep good health and posture of oneself. In addition to that I always bear in my mind that prevention is better that cure.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Reading assignment (for September 19, 2009)
Rules on Electronic Evidence
URL: http://chanrobles.com/rulesonelectronicevidence.htm
Abstract
The Rules on Electronic Evidence was submitted for the Courts’ consideration and approval prior to take action on the memorandum of the Committee on the Revision of the Rules of the Court to draft the Rules on E-Commerce Law (R.A. No. 8792). These rules took its effect on August 01, 2001.
The Rules on Electronic Evidence have the following:
Rule 1: Coverage
Rule 2: Definition of terms and construction
Rule 3: Electronic documents
Rule 4: Best evidence rule
Rule 5: Authentication of electronic documents
Rule 6: Electronic signatures
Rule 7: Evidentiary weight of electronic documents
Rule 8: Business records as exception to the hearsay rule
Rule 9: Method of proof
Rule 10: Examination of the witnesses
Rule 11: Audio, photographic, video and ephemeral evidence
Rule 12: Effectivity
What I have learned:
1. Some computer terms defined in the legal aspect which was covered on the rules on electronic evidence, namely: asymmetric or public cryptosystem, digital signature, electronic data message and electronic document that can be used interchangeably.
2. Electronic documents can serve as powerful evidence and as functional equivalent of paper-based documents provided that it certifies to be authentic based upon the Rule 5 of the said law of- Rules on Electronic Evidence.
3. Ephemeral electronic communication such as telephone conversations, text messages, chat room sessions etc. and other electronic forms of communication, the evidence of which is not recorded can be proven by the presence of witness who has a party to the same or has personal knowledge thereof according to the rule.
Implication/Application:
It only means that even in electronic transactions and the documents involve in the process can play as an evidential part to court cases. In our institution, every move we make especially in our library system was documented. For a particular mistake in the transmission of a book record to the other division, the recipient will know who made some errors because it was recorded electronically. We trace the errors in the system records/reports and based it from the one who made such errors. The important thing is, every employee in our library has its own and unique identification username and password to determine one from another. The word electronic may really differ in other fields of profession like the idea of a librarian to the lawyers’ perception but the bottom line is, thanks to have these rules that should be implemented and observed strictly as well so that we can give credence to justice here in our country.
URL: http://chanrobles.com/rulesonelectronicevidence.htm
Abstract
The Rules on Electronic Evidence was submitted for the Courts’ consideration and approval prior to take action on the memorandum of the Committee on the Revision of the Rules of the Court to draft the Rules on E-Commerce Law (R.A. No. 8792). These rules took its effect on August 01, 2001.
The Rules on Electronic Evidence have the following:
Rule 1: Coverage
Rule 2: Definition of terms and construction
Rule 3: Electronic documents
Rule 4: Best evidence rule
Rule 5: Authentication of electronic documents
Rule 6: Electronic signatures
Rule 7: Evidentiary weight of electronic documents
Rule 8: Business records as exception to the hearsay rule
Rule 9: Method of proof
Rule 10: Examination of the witnesses
Rule 11: Audio, photographic, video and ephemeral evidence
Rule 12: Effectivity
What I have learned:
1. Some computer terms defined in the legal aspect which was covered on the rules on electronic evidence, namely: asymmetric or public cryptosystem, digital signature, electronic data message and electronic document that can be used interchangeably.
2. Electronic documents can serve as powerful evidence and as functional equivalent of paper-based documents provided that it certifies to be authentic based upon the Rule 5 of the said law of- Rules on Electronic Evidence.
3. Ephemeral electronic communication such as telephone conversations, text messages, chat room sessions etc. and other electronic forms of communication, the evidence of which is not recorded can be proven by the presence of witness who has a party to the same or has personal knowledge thereof according to the rule.
Implication/Application:
It only means that even in electronic transactions and the documents involve in the process can play as an evidential part to court cases. In our institution, every move we make especially in our library system was documented. For a particular mistake in the transmission of a book record to the other division, the recipient will know who made some errors because it was recorded electronically. We trace the errors in the system records/reports and based it from the one who made such errors. The important thing is, every employee in our library has its own and unique identification username and password to determine one from another. The word electronic may really differ in other fields of profession like the idea of a librarian to the lawyers’ perception but the bottom line is, thanks to have these rules that should be implemented and observed strictly as well so that we can give credence to justice here in our country.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Reading assignment (for September 12, 2009)
Free for all : Open Source Software
Schneider, Karen. Free for all : open source software. School Library Journal. 2008.
Abstract
A software that is free to download, free to use and free to view or modify was clearly defined in the article as an Open Source Software (OSS). Some examples of open source library software were also identified namely as: Koha, OPALS (open source automated library system) and Evergreen which can replace its commercial/proprietary counterparts. Advantages as well as the disadvantages of the open source software versus the proprietary software were furtherly discussed and compared. The author suggested that if someone was curious about open source software, one should: (1) first ask yourself if you’re already using an OSS product like Firefox because this was an entry point for grasping OSS. (2) Try speaking with peers who are using open source software in their libraries.
What I have learned:
1. Firefox Web Browser is one kind of an open source software.
2. The major points of difference between an open source through its counterpart, the proprietary software. Proprietary software is hard to maintain in terms of cost while the open source products require maintenance only by knowledgeable staff.
3. Open Source Software (OSS) exist solely to provide support and development, plus their related services including training, migration and consulting.
Implication/Application
I would like to cite the best example of an Open Source Software which is also mentioned in the article, the Koha. Based upon my observation from the library where I am currently working, the Koha integrated library system is very efficient and user friendly. Our library’s major concern now is just the internet connection in able to utilize the system unlike before in a proprietary system we’re using, a big budget was necessary for subscription annually. Nothing is free nowadays but thanks to the librarians who are still continuing to think, create and develop best ways (like the said system) for a library which is fortunately free.
Schneider, Karen. Free for all : open source software. School Library Journal. 2008.
Abstract
A software that is free to download, free to use and free to view or modify was clearly defined in the article as an Open Source Software (OSS). Some examples of open source library software were also identified namely as: Koha, OPALS (open source automated library system) and Evergreen which can replace its commercial/proprietary counterparts. Advantages as well as the disadvantages of the open source software versus the proprietary software were furtherly discussed and compared. The author suggested that if someone was curious about open source software, one should: (1) first ask yourself if you’re already using an OSS product like Firefox because this was an entry point for grasping OSS. (2) Try speaking with peers who are using open source software in their libraries.
What I have learned:
1. Firefox Web Browser is one kind of an open source software.
2. The major points of difference between an open source through its counterpart, the proprietary software. Proprietary software is hard to maintain in terms of cost while the open source products require maintenance only by knowledgeable staff.
3. Open Source Software (OSS) exist solely to provide support and development, plus their related services including training, migration and consulting.
Implication/Application
I would like to cite the best example of an Open Source Software which is also mentioned in the article, the Koha. Based upon my observation from the library where I am currently working, the Koha integrated library system is very efficient and user friendly. Our library’s major concern now is just the internet connection in able to utilize the system unlike before in a proprietary system we’re using, a big budget was necessary for subscription annually. Nothing is free nowadays but thanks to the librarians who are still continuing to think, create and develop best ways (like the said system) for a library which is fortunately free.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Reading Assignment (for September 5, 2009)
The International Rice and Research Institute (IRRI) Library Fieldtrip
It was 6 o’clock in the morning when we took the trip to Los Baños, Laguna for the IRRI Library visit.
From the time we arrived at the said library, the staff already gave us a warm welcome. After that, the lecture had started, I’ve found out that IRRI was really an old organization dated back from 1961 and its library has only 12 staff. No wonder why it was called the International Rice and Research Institute because it has the world’s largest collection of rice literature besides, it caters its services to worldwide clienteles. The librarians had introduced their integrated library system which is the Millenium (that is very expensive) focusing on the circulation modules (features the automatic email notice to borrowers prior to due dates), cataloging modules (they practice copy cataloging) and a brief description of the Ariel document delivery services. They use natural language processing from their library website search page. I have learned that the IRRI Library used and applied some Web 2.0 technologies such as blogs and wikis for their current awareness services and synchronous messaging for their reference Skype service. I am impressed to the idea of what they called a “do it yourself renewal” but only applicable for those library members. The library still also practiced the traditional or the conventional document delivery via snail mail which is free of charge for 50 pages only and the new other way, the electronic document delivery service. Still, they are in the process of developing about linking resources from their website and promoting open access to users. They have also told us that cost is really a major consideration from their organization. Ms. Mila Ramos, the chief librarian, advised us as practicing librarians pertaining to journal subscription to avail trials and avoid packages because some of the subjects/information in these packages might not match the needs of the users or the institution/organization’s trust. The best way is to conduct a detailed selection on what is appropriate to your user to be guide by the objectives of your institution/organization.
What I have learned:
1. The IRRI library use a technology called the “do it yourself renewal” service which is available also outside the country but limited to those members of the organization.
2. The Skype which is used for reference service (query-answering service), although it is common nowadays I realized that is very significant typically to the IRRI library because they are isolated or far from other cities.
3. Sometimes a good and ideal system is an expensive one.
Reflection:
It is really hard to be a librarian especially when it comes to the point of making decisions on choosing the appropriate system in a library. Librarians must be intelligent buyers. In spite of some budget problems that the IRRI library is facing nowadays, it helps or it will help their library with the application of Web 2.0 technologies and open access approach. I think that would be the primary solution for libraries experiencing budget problems. If I were in that situation, I would also make that move in able to cope with the library expenses at the same time to follow technological advancements. Really, libraries and librarians today were not just the old, typical librarians known as “guardian of books” yet they are becoming more globally competitive and highly innovative in creating ideas about their profession.
It was 6 o’clock in the morning when we took the trip to Los Baños, Laguna for the IRRI Library visit.
From the time we arrived at the said library, the staff already gave us a warm welcome. After that, the lecture had started, I’ve found out that IRRI was really an old organization dated back from 1961 and its library has only 12 staff. No wonder why it was called the International Rice and Research Institute because it has the world’s largest collection of rice literature besides, it caters its services to worldwide clienteles. The librarians had introduced their integrated library system which is the Millenium (that is very expensive) focusing on the circulation modules (features the automatic email notice to borrowers prior to due dates), cataloging modules (they practice copy cataloging) and a brief description of the Ariel document delivery services. They use natural language processing from their library website search page. I have learned that the IRRI Library used and applied some Web 2.0 technologies such as blogs and wikis for their current awareness services and synchronous messaging for their reference Skype service. I am impressed to the idea of what they called a “do it yourself renewal” but only applicable for those library members. The library still also practiced the traditional or the conventional document delivery via snail mail which is free of charge for 50 pages only and the new other way, the electronic document delivery service. Still, they are in the process of developing about linking resources from their website and promoting open access to users. They have also told us that cost is really a major consideration from their organization. Ms. Mila Ramos, the chief librarian, advised us as practicing librarians pertaining to journal subscription to avail trials and avoid packages because some of the subjects/information in these packages might not match the needs of the users or the institution/organization’s trust. The best way is to conduct a detailed selection on what is appropriate to your user to be guide by the objectives of your institution/organization.
What I have learned:
1. The IRRI library use a technology called the “do it yourself renewal” service which is available also outside the country but limited to those members of the organization.
2. The Skype which is used for reference service (query-answering service), although it is common nowadays I realized that is very significant typically to the IRRI library because they are isolated or far from other cities.
3. Sometimes a good and ideal system is an expensive one.
Reflection:
It is really hard to be a librarian especially when it comes to the point of making decisions on choosing the appropriate system in a library. Librarians must be intelligent buyers. In spite of some budget problems that the IRRI library is facing nowadays, it helps or it will help their library with the application of Web 2.0 technologies and open access approach. I think that would be the primary solution for libraries experiencing budget problems. If I were in that situation, I would also make that move in able to cope with the library expenses at the same time to follow technological advancements. Really, libraries and librarians today were not just the old, typical librarians known as “guardian of books” yet they are becoming more globally competitive and highly innovative in creating ideas about their profession.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Reading assignment (for August 15, 2009)
The IFLA Internet Manifesto
http://archive.ifla.org/III/misc/im-e.htm
Abstract
The paper explains the published statement of the International Federation of Library Association (IFLA) consistent to the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights’ Article 19 that “everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. “ To achieve the essence of freedom, equality, global understanding and peace, barriers to information must be removed to provide access to information. In relation to this, the said organization encourages all and majority to the libraries to implement and observe the created manifesto.
What I have learned:
1. That the primary responsibility of the library and the information profession was the freedom of access to information.
2. It is good to have a mother or a universal organization like the IFLA for example which has the authority to produce a set of standards/guidelines and hopefully will be strictly implemented.
3. I realized the importance of the principle IFLA has that “access to internet especially in libraries should be without charge” because this kind of service is a part of the library.
Application/Implication
I am really in favor to freedom of access to information but there are also factors that need to be considered like the degree or level of restrictions to information specifically to those that are highly confidential or private in nature. Issues like censorship are intertwined with the concept of free access to information. Information that is for adults only, ideally should not be given to the children. As a librarian, I am responsible in filtering and providing the right information to the right user. I think that the new role of librarians in this modern age is not just to point out where a certain resources maybe but to inform as well as to educate the user in the utilization of the internet and other electronic means in a way it will be efficient and effective.
http://archive.ifla.org/III/misc/im-e.htm
Abstract
The paper explains the published statement of the International Federation of Library Association (IFLA) consistent to the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights’ Article 19 that “everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. “ To achieve the essence of freedom, equality, global understanding and peace, barriers to information must be removed to provide access to information. In relation to this, the said organization encourages all and majority to the libraries to implement and observe the created manifesto.
What I have learned:
1. That the primary responsibility of the library and the information profession was the freedom of access to information.
2. It is good to have a mother or a universal organization like the IFLA for example which has the authority to produce a set of standards/guidelines and hopefully will be strictly implemented.
3. I realized the importance of the principle IFLA has that “access to internet especially in libraries should be without charge” because this kind of service is a part of the library.
Application/Implication
I am really in favor to freedom of access to information but there are also factors that need to be considered like the degree or level of restrictions to information specifically to those that are highly confidential or private in nature. Issues like censorship are intertwined with the concept of free access to information. Information that is for adults only, ideally should not be given to the children. As a librarian, I am responsible in filtering and providing the right information to the right user. I think that the new role of librarians in this modern age is not just to point out where a certain resources maybe but to inform as well as to educate the user in the utilization of the internet and other electronic means in a way it will be efficient and effective.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Reading assignment (for July 25, 2009)
In a paperless world a new role for academic libraries: providing open access.
Bosc, Helene & Harnad, Stevan. (2004). In a paperless world a new role for academic libraries: providing open access.
http://eprints.ecs.soton.ac.uk/10502/1/boscharnadLP.htm
Abstract
Academic libraries are considered as a research tool in providing open access in this article. It defines Open Access (OA) such as online archives: ArXiv, Cogprints, REPEC etc. are resources in which full-text contents are accessible online, toll-free to all and webwide. Mostly foreign libraries are some of the best examples described here in providing open access like the Southhampton Universitys’ Eprints.org. It is an open source software for creating ... citation-linking and citation-ranking of OA articles. It suggests that libraries are co-evolving with technology and so librarians should collaborate with his/her client.
What I have learned:
1. In connection to the author’s conclusion, open access provision is necessary in order to bolster the growth of research usage and impact of it worldwide.
2. Librarians should create an open access journal directories in library web interfaces.
3. For those libraries who can’t afford to subscribe from research periodicals, it is a bright idea to incorporate an open access resources in their respective academic websites.
Implication/Application:
Although I’m not directly involved in providing open access (system or sources) to users in the library where I am working with, I should have a say about this topic. Today education is not free, so I should promote the open access movement. Why should I go for an expensive journal subscription if there is an alternative way like the open access online journal? Especially if I don’t have the means to get it.
Bosc, Helene & Harnad, Stevan. (2004). In a paperless world a new role for academic libraries: providing open access.
http://eprints.ecs.soton.ac.uk/10502/1/boscharnadLP.htm
Abstract
Academic libraries are considered as a research tool in providing open access in this article. It defines Open Access (OA) such as online archives: ArXiv, Cogprints, REPEC etc. are resources in which full-text contents are accessible online, toll-free to all and webwide. Mostly foreign libraries are some of the best examples described here in providing open access like the Southhampton Universitys’ Eprints.org. It is an open source software for creating ... citation-linking and citation-ranking of OA articles. It suggests that libraries are co-evolving with technology and so librarians should collaborate with his/her client.
What I have learned:
1. In connection to the author’s conclusion, open access provision is necessary in order to bolster the growth of research usage and impact of it worldwide.
2. Librarians should create an open access journal directories in library web interfaces.
3. For those libraries who can’t afford to subscribe from research periodicals, it is a bright idea to incorporate an open access resources in their respective academic websites.
Implication/Application:
Although I’m not directly involved in providing open access (system or sources) to users in the library where I am working with, I should have a say about this topic. Today education is not free, so I should promote the open access movement. Why should I go for an expensive journal subscription if there is an alternative way like the open access online journal? Especially if I don’t have the means to get it.
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