Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Something New for 2009

2009 marks the start of a new discussion series on Info Island. Real Librarians in Second Life. Each month we will explore the diversity of library careers by having a librarian speak about their real life library jobs, experiences, and involvement in Second Life.

Biblio Latte, military librarian with over 20 years experience will kick off this series. She has worked in academic and post libraries all over the United States and been deployed to Hungary and Bosnia. This is an excellent opportunity for librarians and library students in Second Life to learn about different career paths and to ask questions.

Please join us at the Info Island Auditorium on January 20th, 2009 at 6:00 PM SLT (Pacific time) for the first of this exciting new series!

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Certifcate Program in Virtual worlds

Announcement: Certificate Program in Virtual Worlds
The University of Washington's Information School, in partnership withUniversity of Washington Educational Outreach, is excited to announcethe start of a new certificate program in Virtual Worlds. The programis a series of three consecutive courses, each 10 weeks and 3 credits,the first of which begins on January 8th, 2009. The program continuesthrough the Summer quarter, completing August 27th, 2009. Enrollment isopen to graduate students, undergraduates, and working professionals.The classes will all meet weekly on Thursday evenings from 6-9pm SLT(PT). Students will participate synchronously in virtual environments.The first class session meets in Second Life; students will also havethe opportunity to explore different Virtual Worlds platforms in use ineducational and business domains. Classes will include a combination ofexperiences including lecture, guest speakers, "field trips", andhands-on interactive activities. Each course includes a unique focus ondifferent facets of the implementation and use of virtual environments,and each successive course builds on the concepts of the previous. Theprogram objectives include both practical application of virtual worldsand an increased academic insight. Non-matriculated students whosuccessfully complete the three consecutive courses will receive a UWEOCertificate in Virtual Worlds. For additional information or to register:http://extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/vir/vir_gen.asp
Or contact:Kristi PalmerProgram Manager, Academic ProgramsUniversity of Washington Educational Outreach206.221.0299kpalmer@EXTN.washington.edu
Program information:The courses in this program will combine enrollments of workingprofessionals seeking to apply Virtual Worlds inline with professionaldevelopment, and matriculated graduate and undergraduate students fromthe University of Washington's Information School. Program information may be found:http://extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/vir/vir_gen.asp
Admission requirements:Participation in the program is restricted to students who have a) completed at least one year of college- or university-level study, b) attained computer literacy and are able to download and installsoftware from a website, c) experience in the use of basic internet applications (e.g., e-mail,web browsers and search) and computer operating systems (e.g., Windows,Mac OS, and Linux), and d) a valid e-mail account for the duration of the program.
English Proficiency: Students who are non-native English speakers are expected to haveadequate English language proficiency. Recommended Second Life skills:In order to gain the most value from your initial experiences in thevirtual classroom, we recommend that you establish a Second Lifeaccount, create an avatar, and become familiar with some basic skills inSecond Life, including:* Ability to comfortably walk, sit, turn, fly, and teleport * Ability to control the SL camera view* Ability to change your avatar's appearance and dress * Ability to use Second Life communication tools including IM, textchat, and voice chatSystem requirements:
For general guidelines on system requirements, seehttp://secondlife.com/corporate/sysreqs.php
This program will rely on in-world voice chat; a headset with microphone is required for voice/audio participation.
Course information:Selecting and Using Virtual WorldsWinter Quarter Schedule: (10 sessions) Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. SLT, Jan. 8-March 12, 2009, $789. 3 credits. Reg # 97795
Instructor: Randy Hinrichs
Description:Apply and combine concepts, processes, issues and skills frominformation management techniques, technology design and digital cultureformation to virtual worlds. Requires understanding of 3D systemsconcepts, Web markup languages, and end-user programming tools. Studentsanalyze three virtual world platforms, examining design methods anduser-centric design for human-information interaction. This is an integrative course that provides problem-solving opportunities andhands-on development for information students, requiring utilization ofknowledge gained from previous information technology studies.

Designing and Building Virtual Worlds Spring Quarter Schedule: (10 sessions) Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. SLT, April 2-June 4, 2009, $789. 3 credits. Reg #97796
Instructor: Janice Cowsert Description:Examine and apply concepts, strategies, and skills related to the lifecycle of virtual world planning, design, and product development. Focus on concepts of usability, architectural design, knowledge management andurban community factors. This course involves conceptual frameworks indesign, graphic relevance, and social networking practices that ensurethe scalability, reliability, and availability of 3D immersiveenvironments. Emphasis us given to Internet-based services for storingand accessing information to be used in integrated virtual worlddevelopment. This is an integrative course that builds onproblem-solving techniques learned in the Winter course and examinescomprehensive factors for designing and building immersive informationplatforms, requiring utilization of knowledge gained from previousinformation technology studies and organizational experience.
Virtual Worlds Interactivity and Metrics
Summer Quarter Schedule: (10 sessions) Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. SLT, June 25-August 27, 2009, $789. 3 credits. Reg. #97797
Instructor: Randy Hinrichs
Description:Examine methods for interactivity and use evaluation techniquesinvolving human factors, cognition, gaming strategies, performancetracking and feedback systems that ensure the 'stickiness' and definedvalue in virtual worlds. Ensure strategies and tool selection processfor interactivity factors and evaluation methods. Focus on databasemanagement techniques and programming for storage, retrieval, networkbalance and transactional interchange. This is an integrative coursethat builds on design and delivery techniques learned in the Springcourse and examines comprehensive factors for creating interactivity andmetrics in immersive information platforms, requiring utilization ofknowledge gained from previous information technology studies and organizational experience.

Friday, December 12, 2008

Stepping Into Science in Virtual Worlds Conference

For Immediate Release Contact Information
John S Howard, Conference Host
Dec. 9, 2008 309.938-4644
JPHoward7@gmail.com

“Stepping into Science” Next in Popular “Stepping into Virtual Worlds” Series

Using virtual worlds to teach and promote a love of science is the topic of the next installment of the popular “Stepping into Virtual Worlds” conference series, to be offered January 16th, 2009 in the virtual world of Second Life. Hundreds of people have attended this series, which began with “Stepping into History” in June and has included conferences focusing on literature and on healthcare. The series is sponsored by Alliance Library System and LearningTimes. The day-long conference is open to the public, with more information available at www.steppingintovirtualworlds.org. It will take place entirely in the virtual world of Second Life.

“Many believe that the next step for the Internet is going 3-D” notes John Howard, conference director. “These workshops are intended to give people a glimpse into the possibilities available when people can actually “step into” the web, rather than just reading about it.”

During this conference, participants will make virtual “field trips” to some of the best and most creative locations in Second Life that are using virtual worlds to promote science. During these field trips, they may be able to speak with those responsible for creating the simulations, and have time to explore them on their own. One field trip for this conference is Genome Island, a simulation where visitors can learn about genetics in various ways including actually entering a giant cell. Another will allow participants to experience a life-size tsunami as it crashes ashore, destroying all the buildings on the beach.

Some other features of this conference will include:
· A keynote presentation by Troy McConaghy. Troy's educational background is in physics, applied mathematics, space exploration, and astrodynamics. He's been involved with science-related projects in Second Life for over three years and was a founding member of the SciLands, Second Life's science-themed continent.
· Breakout sessions presented by scientists using virtual worlds for collaborative work, and teachers using virtual worlds as a teaching tool.
· A panel discussion, allowing participants to question and interact with a variety of experts in the use of virtual worlds in the promotion of science.

"Second Life is a great communications tool for scientists and science educators," according to Troy McConaghy, keynote speaker, "because it combines audio, video, 3D models, simulations, and real-time interaction under one immersive interface. It's changing the way science is advanced and taught. This conference will give you a glimpse at the cutting edge of this new technology."

Those participating in the conference will also be invited to be part of a live audience for “Science Friday,” the popular NPR radio show that is hosted in Second Life and broadcast live to radio stations across the United States.

The participants at a virtual world conference participate from their own computer, while an ‘avatar,’ or virtual representative of them, navigates through the 3-D environments and interacts with other avatars. Howard points out, however, that there is nothing virtual about the interactions at these conferences. “Behind every avatar is a person” he says. “And the networking and learning that can happen, with people from all over the world, is very real.”

Alliance Library System, co-sponsor of the “Stepping Into” series, is a multi-type library system headquartered in East Peoria, Illinois. Alliance has been a leader in developing ways for libraries to expand their missions and serve patrons in virtual worlds. Alliance is on the web at www.alliancelibrarysystem.com.

LearningTimes, is the leading producer of online communities and online conferences for education and training. Their clients and partners include educational and cultural institutions, non-profit organizations, associations and membership groups. LearningTimes provides the training, platforms, applications and expertise these organizations need to make their conferences a success. More information about LearningTimes can be found at www.learningtimes.net.

The cost for this day-long conference is $65, and participants may register for the conference at www.steppingintovirtualworlds.org.

Stepping Into Science in Virtual Worlds Conference

For Immediate Release Contact Information
John S Howard, Conference Host
Dec. 9, 2008 309.938-4644
JPHoward7@gmail.com

“Stepping into Science” Next in Popular “Stepping into Virtual Worlds” Series

Using virtual worlds to teach and promote a love of science is the topic of the next installment of the popular “Stepping into Virtual Worlds” conference series, to be offered January 16th, 2009 in the virtual world of Second Life. Hundreds of people have attended this series, which began with “Stepping into History” in June and has included conferences focusing on literature and on healthcare. The series is sponsored by Alliance Library System and LearningTimes. The day-long conference is open to the public, with more information available at www.steppingintovirtualworlds.org. It will take place entirely in the virtual world of Second Life.

“Many believe that the next step for the Internet is going 3-D” notes John Howard, conference director. “These workshops are intended to give people a glimpse into the possibilities available when people can actually “step into” the web, rather than just reading about it.”

During this conference, participants will make virtual “field trips” to some of the best and most creative locations in Second Life that are using virtual worlds to promote science. During these field trips, they may be able to speak with those responsible for creating the simulations, and have time to explore them on their own. One field trip for this conference is Genome Island, a simulation where visitors can learn about genetics in various ways including actually entering a giant cell. Another will allow participants to experience a life-size tsunami as it crashes ashore, destroying all the buildings on the beach.

Some other features of this conference will include:
· A keynote presentation by Troy McConaghy. Troy's educational background is in physics, applied mathematics, space exploration, and astrodynamics. He's been involved with science-related projects in Second Life for over three years and was a founding member of the SciLands, Second Life's science-themed continent.
· Breakout sessions presented by scientists using virtual worlds for collaborative work, and teachers using virtual worlds as a teaching tool.
· A panel discussion, allowing participants to question and interact with a variety of experts in the use of virtual worlds in the promotion of science.

"Second Life is a great communications tool for scientists and science educators," according to Troy McConaghy, keynote speaker, "because it combines audio, video, 3D models, simulations, and real-time interaction under one immersive interface. It's changing the way science is advanced and taught. This conference will give you a glimpse at the cutting edge of this new technology."

Those participating in the conference will also be invited to be part of a live audience for “Science Friday,” the popular NPR radio show that is hosted in Second Life and broadcast live to radio stations across the United States.

The participants at a virtual world conference participate from their own computer, while an ‘avatar,’ or virtual representative of them, navigates through the 3-D environments and interacts with other avatars. Howard points out, however, that there is nothing virtual about the interactions at these conferences. “Behind every avatar is a person” he says. “And the networking and learning that can happen, with people from all over the world, is very real.”

Alliance Library System, co-sponsor of the “Stepping Into” series, is a multi-type library system headquartered in East Peoria, Illinois. Alliance has been a leader in developing ways for libraries to expand their missions and serve patrons in virtual worlds. Alliance is on the web at www.alliancelibrarysystem.com.

LearningTimes, is the leading producer of online communities and online conferences for education and training. Their clients and partners include educational and cultural institutions, non-profit organizations, associations and membership groups. LearningTimes provides the training, platforms, applications and expertise these organizations need to make their conferences a success. More information about LearningTimes can be found at www.learningtimes.net.

The cost for this day-long conference is $65, and participants may register for the conference at www.steppingintovirtualworlds.org.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Library Technology Working Group Launches Dec. 5

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EVENT: LIBRARY TECHNOLOGY WORKING GROUP LAUNCHES ON FRIDAY DEC 5th @ 12pm ET
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Visit http://ImmersiveEducation.org/events/ on the day of this event for meeting materials (such as images and videos) and additional details ............................................................................

WHAT: Library Technology Working Group (LIB.TWG) [LAUNCH EVENT]
WHEN: Friday December 05, 2008 from 12-1pm ET (9-10am Pacific / SL time)
WHERE: Second Life http://slurl.com/secondlife/Smithers%20Bluff/35/205/89

OVERVIEW:

The Library Technology Working Group (LIB.TWG) is responsible for defining, implementing, evolving and maintaining applications and open standards related to the provision of library services associated with Immersive Education.

In the age of Immersive Education libraries are challenged to provide resources and personalized research and learning services that transcend physical space.
Scholarly communication that once depended on printed books and journals is now network disseminated and enriched with the spectrum of multimedia—moving and still photo/video images, sound, animation, immersive 3D and virtual reality, simulation, executable code, large data sets—as well as interactive communication among reviewers and readers. Pedagogy that was predominantly an independent and competitive process for students outside class now makes greater use of collaboration, cooperation, and group study.

In addition to a changed learning and research environment, librarians face continually changing sources for the digital literature and other assets they acquire and make available, and continually changing tools for scholars to locate and use these resources. Management of the library enterprise is characterized by more complex and intense communication among librarians, and the delivery of library services is distinguished by the need for direct, personalized advice on what is available and instruction on how to use it.

Although library practice has been deeply technological for thirty years or more, and a cornerstone of research and course delivery, it is now constrained by the traditions of physical services in real buildings. Similarly, working relations among library staff and with consortial partners depend on traditional modes of email, telephone and process control systems. Certainly, ample opportunity exists to enable vastly greater efficiencies in communication through the use of virtual reality meetings and consultations.

The Library Technology Working Group is chartered to project library services beyond the limits of the brick and mortar physical plant through the application of interactive 3D graphics and animation, open video game and simulation technology, virtual reality, voice over IP, web cams and other rich digital media. These technologies can be leveraged today toward the creation of virtual collaborative study spaces, virtual information literacy programs, virtual research and course consultations, virtual interlibrary document management, and virtual service delivery to name just a few possibilities.




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Visit http://ImmersiveEducation.org/events/ on the day of this event for meeting materials (such as images and videos) and additional details ............................................................................

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EVENT: LIBRARY TECHNOLOGY WORKING GROUP LAUNCHES ON FRIDAY DEC 5th @ 12pm ET
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LIS Educators in Second Life meeting location change

LIS Educators and those interested in LIS education in virtual worlds: The Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois and the Alliance Library System invite you to join us in forming an LIS Educators in Second Life group. We propose meeting on Wednesday, December 10 at 3:00 pm SL time or 5:00 pm central time. The first meeting will be held using the OPAL (Online Programming for all Libraries) auditorium to facilitate participation by those not in SL. Subsequent meetings will be held in SL. For those already in SL as an LIS educator, we invite you to share your experiences. For those who aren't in SL, but perhaps would like to be there in the future, we welcome your questions. We invite our colleagues from other countries to join if the time is convenient. Please bring your ideas on the pedagogical value/concerns/challenges of SL (and other virtual worlds) in LIS education. An RSVP to me isn't necessary but would be appreciated. If you have an avatar, please let us know that also. Here's the link to the OPAL Auditorium: http://www.conference321.com/masteradmin/room.asp?id=rs1641902f62b4 Info and tips for first-time users of OPAL can be found at: http://www.opal-online.org/firsttimetips.htm Marianne Marianne SteadleyContinuing Professional Development Program Director501 E. Daniel St. Champaign IL 61820217/244-2751Fax: 217/244-3302

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

LIS Educators in Virtual Worlds

LIS Educators: The Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois and the Alliance Library System invite you to join us in forming an LIS Educators in Second Life group. We propose meeting on Wednesday, December 10 at 3:00 pm SL time in the Open Air Auditorium on Information Island. Please bring your ideas on the pedagogical value/concerns/challenges of SL (and other virtual worlds) in LIS education.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Colorado Association of Libraries Second Life Interest Group

From Victoria Peterson
We are proud to announce the formation of a new Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL) Interest Group, the Second Life Interest Group (SLIG).
SLIG was formed by unanimous vote at the November CAL Board meeting. The purpose of the group is to:
Explore new ways of doing digital outreach, networking and public relations in order to promote Colorado and its libraries (including but not limited to academic, public, special, and school) on the virtual world of Second Life
Build a Colorado Association of Libraries presence on Second Life through a new virtual library that will represent the combined efforts of the aforementioned Colorado libraries and their library staff.
This new library, "the Sustainable Living Library" on the sim Emerald City, will represent best practices for living an ecologically conscious life. Through virtual workshops, conferences, and links to "green websites", the community of Second Life as well as real life patrons will learn more about their environment and how to save it.

The "Sustainable Living Library" will make available to the community of Second Life the online public access catalogs of Colorado libraries associated with this new library and any programs or activities that promote Colorado, its libraries, or CAL.
The Mission Statement of the Sustainable Living Library:
The Sustainable Living Library of Second Life is committed to creating better and healthier lives for ourselves and our children through sustainable living practices. By developing workshops, exhibits and other resources, we strive to educate our visitors about green practices and other ways to sustain healthy lives and a healthy planet.
SLIG will be meeting soon in the virtual world of Second Life. Interest group members and all others are encouraged to attend this virtual meeting. In the meantime, if you'd like help opening a Second Life account and/or have any other related questions, please contact:
Victoria A. Petersen: petersen.victoria@gmail.comEileen Dumas: edumas8@gmail.com
Already In-World? Visit Emerald City and see its current development! http://slurl.com/secondlife/Emerald%20City/123/62/26
Further Reading:
Sustainable Living Library blog: http://sustainablelivinglibrary.blogspot.com/
Recent Press:
"Libraries go green @ Emerald City", article in the national print and online magazine, RezLibris

http://www.rezlibris.com/librarianship

"Mancos PL Builds Green", ALA Tech Source Blog Interviewhttp://tinyurl.com/ALAinterview
We are looking forward to seeing many of you in-world, and to work together in the creation of CAL's Sustainable Living Library!
Cheers,
Plautia Corvale
Victoria A. PetersenTechnology ManagerMancos Public Library970.533.7569skype: plautia.corvalePO Box 158, Mancos, CO 81328http://mancos.lib.co.us/
http://librarybuildingproject.blogspot.com/

http://sustainablelivinglibrary.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

RezLibris Launches first SL Library magazine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Clark Abismo

DATE: November 7, 2008 EMAIL: rezlibris@gmail.com

RezLibris launches first SL library Magazine

The staff of RezLibris Magazine is proud to announce the launch of the first publication
devoted to librarians and information professionals in Second Life.

Featuring articles and columns written by and about librarians and those in related fields, RezLibris aims to provide news, entertainment, and events coverage of the library community and Information Archipelago. Monthly issues will be available for viewing at http://www.rezlibris.com and quarterly in-world print editions will be distributed commencing in March, 2008.

Starting with its November 2008 online issue, updated articles will be posted the first Sunday of each month. Many interactive features will be included in the website edition including machinima and slide shows.

Regular columns will consist of articles on the various types of libraries: public, academic, special, and world libraries; up-to-date news happenings for Info Island; coverage of library institutions and organizations such as ALA, SLA, and Alliance Library Systems; an Arts and Entertainment section with reviews of art exhibits, museums, film/theater, music, fashion, and books; an immersion section featuring role-playing sims and genre-specific libraries, i.e. Mystery Manor and Sci Fi Portal; real life stories and profiles; a teen section; and an Ask the Librarian column.

Submissions and suggestions are always welcome. RezLibris is currently supported solely by volunteer work and donations. For information on advertising in the online or print editions, contact Sifriya Devin, Ad Manager, by IM or at sifriya.devin@gmail.com.

RezLibris Magazine
http://www.rezlibris.com
SLurl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Cybrary%20City/146/152/24/?title=RezLibris%20Magazine
Email: rezlibris@gmail.com
Join our SL group: RezLibris Readers

Clark Abismo, Publisher
Dulcie Mills, Associate Publisher

Monday, November 10, 2008

Tech Static Launches

For immediate release: November 10, 2008Contact: Rachel Singer Gordon (rachel@thetechstatic.com)
New technology-related collection development resource for librarians launches
Villa Park, IL — The Tech Static, a new collection development resource for technology titles, published its inaugural issue today.
The need for such a resource became apparent when October 15 marked the last installment of Library Journal’s “Computer Media” review column, which The Tech Static’s creator, Rachel Singer Gordon, had been writing since 2002. This left a large gap in the library literature: no other librarian-targeted publication currently reviews computer books on a regular basis. To fill that gap, Singer Gordon created The Tech Static, a new resource for librarians focusing on reviewing technology-related books.
The Tech Static assists librarians with technology-related collection development. To this end, it contains:
Reviews of current computer books
Reviews of technology-related titles targeted at librarians
Collection development articles (weeding, “must-haves,” balancing a computer book collection)
Prepublication alerts
Publisher press releases
DVD and ebook reviews
Announcements
… and more!
“I’m pleased to continue providing — and expanding on! — coverage of technology titles,” said Singer Gordon. “Anyone involved with collection development in this area is invited to subscribe to this new free resource.” The Tech Static is available online at www.thetechstatic.com; readers can also subscribe via RSS or email.
The Tech Static is also currently seeking writers for technology-related collection development articles.
Contact Rachel Singer Gordon with any questions or comments at rachel@thetechstatic.com.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Book Discussion On Only Yesterday
The book discussion series on Only Yesterday turns to Zora NealeHurston's classic novel, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" on Tuesdayevening, November 11, at 6:00 p.m. SLT. The story, set in the Americandeep South in the 1930s, tells the story of a young African Americanwoman in search of love and her place in life. Librarian TAMU Ohleads the discussion in the Reading Room (second floor of the island'sbookstore), on the plaza at Only Yesterday. As always, please come andparticipate, even if you have not yet had a chance to read the novel..... and bring a friend!

West of Ireland Library
Please join us in the West of Ireland Library for these great events!

Sunday 9 November @ 11am - Stories saluting veterans with Aoife Lorefield.
Monday 10 November @ 7pm - Peter Pan with Caledonia Skytower.
Tuesday 11 November @ 7pm - The Maidens of the Grael with Derry McMahon.
Wednesday 12 November @ 7pm - Poems of Seamus Heaney with Aoife Lorefield.
Thursday 13 November @ 6.30 - The Secret of Roan Inish with Shandon Loring.
Friday 14 November @ 5pm - A salute to veterans (and please stay for the USO show!)
Saturday 15 November @ 1pm - Washington Irving stories with Elder Priestman & Derry McMahon.
Sunday 16 November @ Noon - Myths and Legends with the WOI Storytellers.
Monday 17 November @ 7pm - Peter Pan with Caledonia Skytower.

Please IM Derry McMahon for more info or with any questions! http://slurl.com/secondlife/West%20of%20Ireland/51/152/26

Investing InfoIsland

Next Wed. Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. SLT we will begin a series of brief introductions to the seven stations of investing information contained on Investing InfoIsland. Next Wed. we'll begin with Station 1 (duh), which provides information on planning to invest.

Here's the entire schedule for the series. Hypatia Dejavu or Maxito Ricardo will facilitate each session, which will be brief (approx. 30 mins., with plenty of time for Q&A and discussion. Always on Wednesdays, always at 7 pm SLT, always on Investing InfoIsland.

Station 1: Planning to Invest: Nov. 12
Station 2: Selecting Investments: Nov. 19
Station 3: Social Security: Dec. 3
Station 4: Investment Strategy: Dec. 10
Station 5: Frauds and Scams:
Dec. 17
Station 6: Farther Down the Road (Insurance and Wills): Jan. 7
Station 7: Final Preparations (Estates, Trusts, Funerals, Probate): Jan. 14

Next Thurs. Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. SLT at the central lodge on Investing InfoIsland there will be an informal book discussion of the fascinating book, The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. Everyone is welcome to attend, even if you haven't read the book! No pop quiz. For more information, contact Maxito Ricardo.

Science Fiction and Fantasy Portal on Info Island
Portal monthly meetings - November 12th, Wednesday--1 pm and 6:30 pm. We won't be using the fourth week of either November or December because of various national and religious holidays which occur during those weeks. For more information on Portal activities, please contact Franja Russell.

Alexandrian Free Library: Caledon, Winterfell, Steelhead, New Babbage & New Toulouse Library events Nov 11-18

Steelhead Public Library Announces a New Series!Readings by ShalmendoThursday afternoons at 4-5pm sltSteelhead Hotel Ballroom - http://slurl.com/secondlife/Steelhead/75/156/26

The Steelhead Public Library is pleased to sponsor Mr. ShalmendoGlineux as he brings Alice In Wonderland to the Steelhead Grand Hotelin a series of readings on Thursday afternoons at 4 o'clock pm SLtime. Starting on November 6, and lasting approximately one hour eachweek, Mr. Glineux will take us down the rabbit hole and help us solvethe mystery of who actually stole the tarts. AND, you don't even haveto be at the hotel or logged into SL! You can listen to Shalmendo onthe Gargoyle Wireless station! http://slan13.ipr365.com:10212

Weekly radio play broadcast from Radio RielThursday Nov 13 7 – 8pmRadio Riel HQ, Caledon Penzance http://slurl.com/secondlife/Caledon%20Penzance/224/100/24 Or tune in at http://music.radioriel.orgJoin Caledon Library Collaborator Radio Riel for another thrilling hour of....SPACE 1889 - THE STEPPES OF THOTHIn Syrtis Major's corridors of power, a threat to the British Empire'sdominion over Mars is close to discovery, and Governor-General Sir HenryRoutledge faces ruin if it ever comes to light.

In the wilderness of the Thoth Steppes, enemy powers, savage tribesmen andeven nature herself bar the way to the wreckage of a lost Ether Flyer, andthe secrets it hides.For Captain Roger St. John Ffolkes, it is a mission he cannot refuse; forthe adventuress Georgina Golightly, a journey that will risk all - and forMars, it is the chance to save a world...or ignite a war.
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New Babbage Aether Salon and the New Babbage Library present:Weapons! , A lecture by Miss Ordinal MalapropSunday, November 16, 2-3 pm SLTNew Babbage Aether Salonhttp://slurl.com/secondlife/Babbage%20Palisade/97/59/105
Given the minimum of destruction wreaked by the first event, we are pleased to announce the second Aether Salon.All are welcome to join us at the Aether Salon in Babbage Palisade (located across the street from Her Dark Materials, & conveniently near the train station) for tea and a spirited discussion of weapons with a dangerous, perilous, stunning craft to follow.We are thrilled to announce that our guest speaker will be Miss Ordinal Malaprop.Known for her fine production methods, exceptional scripts, attention to detail, and ability to keep danger at bay with a variety of weapons and tools, Miss Malaprop will be well armed to address the current state of weaponry in our times. We've seen her armory and plan to be most attentive and polite.Please bring your manners, keep your wits about you, and check your own fine examples of might and mayhem at the door.
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Common Ground, Story Session at the Falling Anvil Public HouseMonday, November 17th, 5-8 p.m. SLTThe Falling Anvil, Caledon Tamrannoch
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Caledon%20Tamrannoch/230/108/22

"Now be thankful for good things...."As fall gives way to winter, and the wild winds tear the leaves from the trees, our thoughts turn to gathering at warm firesides, renewing our ties to friends, family, clan, & tribe. This month's theme is Common Ground: in the spirit of thanksgiving, we welcome your tales of connection & reconciliation, or different people finding what they share, plus tales of changes, rites of passage, & all the ordinary and extraordinary transitions that make up our lives. Those without a tale to tell are always welcome to come share in the good cheer!Sponsored by the Caledon Library & the Clan of Seafarers and Storytellers, and hosted by master storyteller Aldo Stern

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

This week's ALA Salon Huron event in Second Life

This week’s open discussion at Salon Huron on Thursday, 11/6 at 3:30 pm PST/SLT: The Librarian as Second Life Campus Leader
This week’s Salon Huron table talk discussion on ALA Island ( 196, 206, 29) on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at 3:30 pm Pacific Standard Time/Second Life Time will be led by the newly crowned Alliance Library System (IL) Librarian of the Year, Barbara Galik, known in Second Life as Puglet Dancer. She will speak about The Librarian as Campus Leader in setting up a virtual presence in Second Life. These discussion sessions are informal and free. Join us!
If you have other ideas/topics for discussion, please send an IM to Lorelei Junot. These will take place each Thursday as part of the ALA Virtual Communities and Libraries Member Initiative Group (ALA VCL MIG).
If you’d like, RSVP at the Facebook Event Page, at:http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=39714157196

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

ALA Salon Huron in Second Life

This week's Salon Huron on Thursday October 30 at 3:30 pm sl on ALA Island
will be lead by Sonja Morgwain. The discussion topic is National Gaming Day - share ideas,
what your library is doing, etc. The discussion will last approximately one hour and
everyone is invited. Join Sonja on ALA Island. If you have other ideas/topics for discussion,
please let me know. These will take place each Thursday as part of the ALA Virtual Communities
and Libraries Member Interest group.

Courses for Librarians and Educators in Second Life

STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR THE FOLLOWING SECOND LIFE COURSES! Last ones offered this semester. Please share this announcement with your colleagues.

The Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois, and the Illinois Alliance Library System are pleased to offer the following continuing education courses in Second Life. These courses are open to anyone interested in learning more about virtual worlds and establishing a presence in Second Life.COURSE TITLE: Working with a Class in Second LifeJoin Dr. Bryan Carter (Bryan Mnemonic) in this course created to help librarians. museum professionals, and educators learn how to work with a class in Second Life including hardware and software requirements, orientation, faculty and student mindset change, establishing course objectives, finding and creating content, creating meaningful projects, evaluating student work, action learning, grants, managing a sim-island, and collaborative opportunities.Week One: Setting up a class in Second LifeWeek Two: The Pedagogy of Second LifeWeek Three: Student ProjectsWeek Four: Managing a Project/SimAudience: Open to librarians and educators interested in using Second Life for educational purposes. Students must feel comfortable navigating in Second Life. This is not a basic Second Life course.Dates and times: Wednesdays, October 29, November 5, 12, 19 from 4:00 - 6:00 PM SL (US Pacific) timeLocation: Second LifeCost: $150For additional information and to register:
http://www.lis.uiuc.edu/programs/cpd/VW/class.html

COURSE TITLE: Setting up an Educational Presence in Second LifeAre you looking to set up an educational presence in Second Life but don’t know where to start? Join us to learn about planning, needs assessment, goals, expectations, buying or renting land, where to find help, prefab versus building, challenges, positives, teaching tools in Second Life such as Power point, class management, groups permissions, communication, and evaluating your presence once you have it set up. We will take field trips so students can see and discuss some of the educational presences in Second Life.Week One: Planning a presence in Second LifeWeek Two: Setting up a presence in Second LifeWeek Three: Managing a presence in Second LifeWeek Four: Evaluating a presence in Second LifeInstructors: Lori Bell (Lorelei Junot), Rhonda Trueman (Abbey Zenith) and Tom Peters (Maxito Ricardo).Audience: Open to anyone interested in using Second Life for educational purposes. Students should have experience navigating in Second Life.Dates and times: Sundays, November 2, 9, 16, 23 from 5:00-7:00 PM SL (US Pacific) timeLocation: Second LifeCost: $150For additional information and to register:http://www.lis.uiuc.edu/programs/cpd/VW/edpres.html

Saturday, October 25, 2008

ALA SLymposium on Virtual Worlds and Libraries in Second Life

The American Library Association Virtual Communities and Libraries Membership Interest Group is pleased to announce its first ALA SLymposium to be held in the virtual world of Second Life on ALA island on Saturday November 8. There is no charge for the event. The fall SLymposium will offer a look at what all types of library-related organizations are doing in Second Life. A companion symposium for spring will explore what all types of library-related organizations are doing in other virtual environments.
The keynote speaker for the SLymposium is Tom Peters, CEO of TAP Information Services, and author of the recently released "Libraries and Virtual Worlds," an ALA TechSource publication. Peters is also one of the conveners of the VCL MIG. Other speakers include Sonja Morgan-Plummer, Tina Coleman from ALA, Carrie Pennell from Harvard University, FT Takacs from University of South Carolina, Carol Perryman from University of North Carolina SLIS, Kelly Czarnecki from Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, and Sue Bergren, a graduate student from the University of Illinois.
To register for this event, go to http://tinyurl.com/5eypww
For more information on the event, please contact Tom Peters at tapinformation@yahoo.com, Lori Bell at lbell927@gmail.com, or Sonja Morgan at sonjamorgwain@yahoo.com
Event Schedule
8:00 A.M. – Welcome and Keynote
Tom Peters, author, ALA TechSource Library Technology Report on Librarianship in Virtual Worlds
8:30 A.M. – Public and Rural Libraries in Second Life
Sonja Morgan. Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library
9:00 A.M. – Library Associations in Second Life
Tina Coleman, ALA
9:30 A.M. – Academic Libraries in Second Life
Carrie Pennell, Harvard University
FT Takacs, University of South Carolina
10:00 – 11:00 A.M. – Break
11:00 A.M. – Special Libraries in Second Life
Carol Perryman, Coordinator of Health Infoisland
11:30 A.M. – Schools, Teens and Tweens in virtual worlds
Kelly Czarnecki, Public Library Of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County
12:00 P. M. – Graduate library students in Second Life – Sue Bergren

12:30 P.m. – Social

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Welcome!

Welcome to our new blog, a companion to our new book just out
October 20 - "Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries." Visit this blog for posts
on virtual worlds and libraries!