Exploration 5 - LibraryThing

I usually like tools that can be used to manage book lists. LibraryThing is definitely an easy way to do that. I found it simple to use and the tags and folders make it easy for me to find any books that I add. As always, I would need to keep up with adding content...a neverending challenge.

As for library use, I can think of a few ideas for LibraryThing or similar tools. If we wanted to maintain system booklists we could do that. However, Aquabrowser now fills that need. We could show patrons how to use LibraryThing to manage their own booklists. To provide personalized service to patrons, we could maintain booklists for them. It could be a team/branch effort to add suggested titles to the list for those patrons who are always looking for a good read. And don't patrons always ask us to remember what they read anyway? :) Since Library by Mail does (I believe?) maintain records of what people have read, this may be a good tool for them to use. It could also be a great way to create a branch or system-wide staff recommends that could be available for viewing by the public.

Since books are still our business, I'm sure there are other possibilities. But that is all that I can come up with right now.

Oh yeah...and you can find my LibraryThing at CheckMeOut. (Can you tell I'm having trouble keeping all of my accounts straight? I'm now trying to simplify.) It's a small step (and a little random), but hopefully the beginning of something that will grow!