Final Project link

Here's the link for the final project.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Dws_k4pvW0v405nFkeq7FtqYYYQmCXbBoaAjq0LOBuM/edit?usp=sharing

Digital Libraries vs. Institutional Repositories

Digital libraries often have a much more comprehensive and diversified collection that IR's do. In this way they are much closer to the traditional "library." Depending on the scale and scope of the collection, digital libraries can provide an impressive depth of information from the comfort of your own home. It is now possible to view actual pictures and scans of antique artifacts that you would have to travel hundreds, if not thousands of miles to see. However, most of these organizations require extensive funding and support to stay afloat. Creating a digital library can be challenging, but it is a resource that is worth building.

While institutional repositories don't provide the same depth and breadth of collection variety, they provide a unique information source. Depending on goals of the repository, there will be a unique collection of research papers and scholarly works. IR's are often based on a subject area such as science, mathematics, technology, and humanities, however, IR's may cover a very broad knowledge base, again depending on the goals of the repository. IR's also provide a unique opportunity to preserve the heritage and history of an institution, particularly a college or university.

Digital libraries and IR's are unique resources that provide the opportunity to share specialized knowledge with a community of digital scholars. It is vitally important that both of these resources continue to grow and develop for future users and scholars.

Dublin Core+Practical Experience=Light Bulb

Recently I have had the opportunity to use the Dublin Core Metadata scheme and I think I like it. When I first learned about DC in the obligatory cataloging class, I understood it in a very general, theoretical way. Now that I have had some practical experience, it makes a great deal more sense and I can see how useful it really is. Not to say that I want to jump into cataloging, but I have a new appreciation for DC how it helps with organization and discovery.

Joomla, part 2

Working with Joomla has been a very interesting experience. While I share many of your frustrations with the CMS, I have to say once the site is set-up and I understood how the administration side works, I began to like it. There are many useful plug-ins, modules, and templates that can make a good site, great.

One of the features I like about this system is the media manager. At first I was frustrated with this feature because I didn't understand how it worked, but once I watched the tutorial, it made sense to upload the media you wanted to use in one location. That way you didn't have to hunt it down later.

However, I wish that this system would include a module map for every template, similar to WordPress, so you can have a "map" of the site. It makes it easier to see what goes where and helps the developer keep a clear picture of how the site needs to be organized.

Overall, this was a good learning experience, not that I'm anxious to do it again, but I would be willing to work with Joomla in the future.

Joomla, part 1

Time for assignment 2 and my first encounter with Joomla. I have used WordPress for a previous class and found that it was easy to use and set-up. I am hoping that Joomla is of like-mind. I haven't set up a page yet, hence part 1. After spending some time creating webpages from the ground up, I have a new found appreciation for CMS's. I just wonder if Joomla will err more on the side of Drupal, which I know nothing about, or WordPress. However, from what I have seen in the Webinars, I think this process will be fairly straightforward. Hopefully...

Wikis

The library in question is the Jefferson City library in Jefferson, GA and is part of the PINES consortium and is located in a rural area. The exact budgetary information is not available, but it is a small public library, which has at most two full-time librarians and a few part-time staff members. This institution will need a wiki that is either free or very inexpensive and user-friendly.

While going through the set-up, the options I chose are as follows:

• A hosted wiki, which would be hosted through PINES

• A WYSIWYG editor

• A page history to keep track of edits and possibly vandalism

• A unique domaine name, that hopefully has not been taken

• The ability to apply corporate branding for the PINES consortia

After completing the wizard several options came up including: Wikia, Wikispaces, Zoho Wiki and EditMe, to name a few. I chose Wikispaces because it is free and easy to set-up. The purpose of this wiki is to promote the Jefferson City library and provide a free and valuable resource for its patrons. If it was my responsibility to set-up the wiki, I would populate it with information about the Jefferson City library, including community events, provide tutorials and lib guides, and post regular points of interest such as book reviews.

Social Networking Overload

In the weeks leading up to this class I was under the impression that Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace were the only names in social networking and now I see that isn't true. There is now so many SNS that it makes you wonder: how much is too much? Is social networking intended to be confined to a select few programs or is it up to the users how many SNS are developed? Just to give you an idea of how many SNS are out there, check out this link, it may surprise you.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_social_networking_websites

Hello fellow classmates in MLIS 7505. My name is Justin Thomas, I am in my sixth semester in the MLIS program at VSU and I am interested in library applications of information technology. I used this blog for a class in the Spring, so please pardon all the posts about cloud computing. However, you're free to read as much as you like. At present I know a little about Web 2.0, but I haven't studied it in depth. I hope to learn about Web 2.0 in this class, as well as any other emerging technologies that may have applications in libraries. I have enjoyed my experiences in this program so far, but I am eager to get out into the "real world" and apply some of the knowledge and skills I have picked up in this program.

Cloud Computing and Libraries, Part 2

Last time we discussed the advantages and benefits for adopting cloud computing in a library environment. Today we will be talking about some cloud applications that can be applied to libraries and some real-world examples of cloud computing in libraries.

Bansode and Pujar (2012) have suggested several areas where libraries can benefit from cloud computing (p. 509). Here are a few:

• Automation: Libraries that have adopted automation technologies have done so with the hope that it will help with the day-to-day operations that often take up quite a bit of the librarians time. At the moment, most automation processes are done through integrated library software hosted on local software and managed by an internal IT staff or by some library personell. Taking the cloud approach, libraries could purchase software as a service (SaaS) from a vendor and would be free from having to purchase or maintain hardware and would not be responsible for updates. This would save library staff time and money, allowing them to invest these resources elsewhere.
• Digital Library Services: Digital libraries are in a peculiar place, having to locally host special software and maintain regular updates. Some vendors are beginning to offer this software on the cloud using the SaaS approach. This would alleviate the need for library or IT staff to have to regularly maintain specialized software.
• Office Applications: Libraries as well as other businesses spend funds on office applications such as word processing and spreadsheet programs. Now, these same programs can be accessed on the cloud through companies like Google or Microsoft. This also allows access to documents from any computer, so various staff members can access and edit the same document from anywhere. 
• Storage: digital storage is one of cloud computing greatest draws and advantages. Capable of storing several gigabytes of information and currently costing the user nothing, storage in the cloud can help free up some space on personal computers and proxy servers. Storage on the cloud can also promote collaboration between libraries.
• Website Hosting: Next to storage, website hosting in the cloud is one of cloud computing's most popular attractions. Cloud hosting uses data centers, which employ the uses of hundreds of servers to host an organizations website. The beauty of this arrangement is that is pay-per-use, so that the site gets all the space and bandwidth it needs; no more, no less.

Cloud computing offers a wide range of services that can be used to increase productivity in a library or information center setting. While library-specific applications are still few in number there are other applications that can help with daily activities. Sorensen and Glassman (2011) have suggested the use of calendars, forms, blogs and surveys that can be added to a library's website or be a free-standing application in itself (p. 247). Calendars can be found on Google and Zoho and can be embedded into a website for easy access to such information as library hours and academic schedules. Forms are necessary in any business environment and Zoho Docs and Google Drive can be used to create and store forms in the cloud. For libraries that want to use blogs, sites like wordpress and drupal are easy to create and manage. These sites can become a website in themselves or can be used to post news to a library's website. For those doing research, surveys are very useful and it is recommended to use surveymonkey.com or zoomerang.com. However, these survey services are subscription-based. 

Companies like Google and Amazon are leading the way in business related cloud applications. However, what are some real-life examples of library-based cloud computing? At present there are two good examples: OCLC's webscale and Ex-Libris cloud. According to Bansode and Pujar (2012) OCLC is moving to implement a management system that will allow libraries to manage collection life cycles in a cloud environment and will promote cost-efficiency and better service (p. 508). Ex-libris has, according to Bansode and Pujar (2012) developed a new library system, dubbed Alma, that will be entirely based in the cloud (p. 508). The centralized cloud service will allow libraries to collaborate easier and provide better service to its patrons. To achieve this Ex-libris has installed several data centers to provide maximum efficiency. 

Cloud computing is an innovative technology that can provide cost saving services to libraries and information centers. In this age of fast-paced, always-on information culture, it is clear that this technology is not going anywhere. The applications and uses for this medium is far-reaching and will only improve with time. When it come to cloud computing, well, the sky is the limit.

To learn more about cloud computing in libraries, visit these links:

Cloud Computing for Libraries by Marshall Breeding

Cloud Computing and its affect on libraries

Library Cloud Atlas

Library Cloud Pros and Cons

Bansode, S. Y. & Pujar, S.M. (2012). Cloud Computing in Libraries. Journal of Library & Information Technology, 32(6), 506-512.

Sorensen, K. & Glassman, N. R. (2011). From Desktop to Cloud: A Primer on Internet-Based Computing for Librarians. Journal of Electronic Resources in Medical Libraries, 8(3), 243-255.

Cloud computing and Libraries, part 1

Now that we have laid the ground work for cloud computing, let's apply this concept to libraries. How can libraries benefit from cloud computing? What are the concerns surrounding cloud computing?

Libraries have never been static institutions. They are constantly changing and evolving to provide better service to their patron base. In this digital age, libraries have taken steps to fuse technology with the written word to further their mission of promoting the free exchange of information. With cloud computing, libraries can take their mission a step further.

Goldner (2010) has suggested severals areas where cloud computing can help libraries improve their service:

• Most libraries are using systems that were built with pre-Web technologies. When these outdated systems are distributed on the Web they are harder to integrate and results in increased costs. Upgrading to cloud services can help make storing and sharing information easier and less costly.
• Library information is scattered across various systems on the Web, which makes Web presence weaker and increases the chance of missing users. Switching to a unified cloud system will place more information in one place, helping users find more information faster, making collaboration simpler between libraries and increases the Web presences of libraries and information centers.
• Libraries store and maintain similar data over and over again. Moving this data to a cloud environment can help reduce redundancy, saving time and money spent on these tasks.
• Many of these distributed systems use very little of their capacity. Consolidating these systems in a cloud environment can reduce carbon footprints and energy consumption, making libraries more energy efficient.

For libraries one of the major advantages of cloud computing is information sharing and consolidated web space. However, this is just one of many advantages of cloud computing for libraries.

Han (2010) had identified several other advantages and concerns for libraries to consider before moving to a cloud-based platform (p. 90). The first of these is cost-effectiveness due to that fact that administrators do not have to worry about hardware and the cost it incurs. Cloud computing takes out the need for hardware other than the computer being used to access the cloud. Next is flexibility owing to the "always ready" nature of cloud computing. Projects can begin immediately, as there is no need to set-up additional hardware or calibrate a new system. The cloud is always accessible and available for updates. This attribute also relates to the scalability feature of cloud computing, which allows users to add to the existing infrastructure. Most cloud computing services are pay-for-use, so users are only paying for the services they use. The next advantage is data safety. Data stored in cloud infrastructures are essentially data centers located miles and miles away. This provides a safety net in case of a natural disaster near the physical library and most of these sites provide regular data back-ups. High availability is a major advantage for most industries considering cloud computing. This is because most of the companies pioneering cloud computing (i.e. Amazon, Google, and Microsoft) have extensive resources to provide data sites that make cloud computing possible and affordable. Lastly, cloud computing has the ability to handle large amounts of data. The cloud gives users as much processing power as they need and can handle vast amounts of data.

While there are several good reasons to use cloud computing, Han (2010) also points out some concerns that should be addressed before converting to a cloud infrastructure (p.90). The first issue is availability of a service which concerns service outages. From time to time sites go down and services are not available. Most major cloud platforms are consistent and rarely go down, but if it's necessary to have access to services/data at all times, it is suggested to either keep the data stored locally or have duplicate data stored on another cloud platform. The next issue is data confidentiality which is a very central topic of discussion. Moving data into the cloud can put confidential information in a vulnerable position. However, most cloud services come equipped with data encryption and data security services, such as firewalls, can be added. Data transfer bottleneck is an issue if the local area network has limited bandwidth. Moving large amounts of data can take considerable time and it is recommended that transfers, like this should be done during early morning hours when the network is not in use.

Considering the advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing, it is a good option collaboration and information exchange. Cloud computing will make sharing resources much easier and cost-efficient for libraries. Despite the possible risks involved, there will most likely be an increased used of cloud technologies in a variety of libraries in the years to come.

Since this is a long post, it will be split up into two parts. Next time we will cover some cloud applications that apply directly to libraries and some real-world cloud computing projects focused on the library sector.

Goldner, Matthew R. (2010). Winds of Change: Libraries and Cloud Computing. Bibliothek Forschung und Praxis, 34(3) 270-275.

Han, Yan. (2010). On the Clouds: A New Way of Computing. Information Technology and Libraries. 29(2), 87-92.

Who is using cloud computing?

Now that we know what cloud computing is and how it's structured, the next question is: who is using it? There are several major corporations that are using cloud computing in its various capacities.

Matthew Goldner (2010) of OCLC, has come up with a few examples:

• Amazon: uses cloud infrastructure as a buying space.
• Facebook: employs the use of cloud platform as a space to build a unique application.
• Google Docs: makes use of cloud application by allowing the use of a software application through a web browser.
• ADP: provides services that can be accessed by a web browser.

In addition to these, Bansode and Pujar (2012) have identified several other companies that use cloud computing:

Microsoft Windows Azure allows organizations to develop and use applications with near unlimited scalability and ease-of-use. This model allows organizations to pay for what they need, leaving the rest out allows organizations to develop custom applications rapidly. Some of the services include: SaaS, storage and database management.

Rackspace Cloud: this is a cloud platform that offers three kinds of services to businesses: cloud servers, cloud files, and load balancers. Cloud servers are measured by the amount of physical memory reserved (between 256MB to 30GB) on an operating system of the client's choosing and are used to run web applications. Cloud files are used to organize and store media files that be easily delivered using a content delivery network. Load balancers help balance load capacity and helps increase server capabilities.

Many business and corporations are choosing to adopt cloud computing because it saves resources and time. According to Goldner (2010) businesses normal spend 70% of their resources supporting the infrastructure that keeps the business afloat, but when an organization moves to a cloud-based system, more resources are freed up to invest in more innovations, creating a better business or organization.

According to Jordan (2011) in April 2009 announced plans to create "web-scale" services for libraries. Web-scale is defined as "concentrating computer resources, applications and data to deliver benefits to large numbers of users through the Web"(p. 7). Web-scale may sound very similar to cloud computing and that's because it incorporates a cloud infrastructure. Few organizations can claim to be Web-scale, among them is Facebook, eBay, and Amazon.com. In addition to having a cloud infrastructure, Web-scale services include and aggregate mass of data and users. The goal of OCLC's Web-scale model is to move more data and management functions into the cloud to allow library staff to devote more time and resources (70/30 model) to internal improvements. The ultimate goal of this project is to streamline workflows, share resources, and effectively reach more users.

Bansode, S.Y., & Pujar, S.M. (2012). Cloud Computing and Libraries. Journal of Library & Information Technology, 32(6), 506-512.

Goldner, Matthew R. (2010). Winds of Change: Libraries and Cloud Computing. Bibliothek Forschung und Praxis, 34(3), 270-275.

Jordan, Jay. (2011). Climbing Out of the Box and into the Clouds: Building Web-Scale for Libraries. Journal of Library Administration, 51(1), 3-17.  

Cloud characteristics and components

Last time we introduced a basic concept of cloud computing and what it is some common uses. Today we will be discussing some characteristics and components of cloud computing.

Singh and Veralakshmi (2012) have created a list of characteristics of cloud computing and are as follows:

1. Versatility
1. If cloud computing is going to be the way of the future, it will need to be versatile and flexible. Technology is constantly changing and if cloud computing is going to survive, it will need to change with the times.
2. Cost-effectiveness
1. Since cloud computing takes out the necessity of a physical space, resources can be saved on office space, furniture, etc. 
3. Virtualization
1. Moving more information to a virtual environment can help save space and reduce costs, by using less paper for instance.
4. Security
1. Security in the cloud does present a unique problem: with more sensitive information being stored in a virtual environment will increase the chances of the system being hacked. It will be important for information professionals using the cloud to keep abreast on all developments in cyber security.
5. Sustainability
1. As long as the cloud is compatible with current technologies, it will require very little maintenance over time and saving further resources that would have been spent on repairs.
6. Scalability
1. A major advantage of cloud computing is its ability to add features seamlessly. This feature will help further resources that would have been spent on improvements and upgrades.
7. User-friendly
1. At present cloud computing is fairly user-friendly, but again it will need to adapt with change to remain helpful. It is not clear how cloud computing will integrate with the consumer.
8. Resource Optimization
1. Cloud computing can help reduce costs in several ways, as has been demonstrated in the points above. 
9. Infrastructure and service-level agreements (SLAs)
1. Since the cloud resides in virtual environment, it can be access from virtually any computer and will certainly have an impact on mobile computing. However, with all the positive attributes of cloud computing, service-level agreements may present a new set of issues.

Components

Similar to characteristics, components of cloud computing describe possible applications, but ones that are closely related or unique to cloud computing.

1. Infrastructure: given the virtual environment of cloud computing, it is the hardware, rather than the software that is front and center. The infrastructure relies on other cloud compatible devices to share resources.
2. Storage: one of the most attractive features of cloud computing is its ability to store large amounts of data that can be accessed virtually anywhere, by anyone that has access to the network.
3. Platform: this segment, known as cloud platform, is a basis for managing software and hardware needs to run applications. Think of it as a web-based operating system.
4. Application: application software runs in the cloud and therefore eliminates the need to install, update and maintain software on the user's device. Another cost-efficient attribute of cloud computing.
5. Service: cloud service is a little more challenging concept. Essentially, it is an independent piece of software that can be used in tandem with other cloud services over a network.
6. Client: a cloud client, which can be hardware or software, attempts to use a cloud service over the network.

These are some of the uses and dimensions of cloud computing that are becoming more common. As future information professionals, it would be to our benefit and those we serve to learn about this innovative technology. 

Singh, S.P. & Veralakshmi, R.S.R. (2012). Cloud Computing: A Promising Economic Model for Libraries and Information Centers. Journal of Library & Information Technology, 32(6), 526-532.

Cloud computing is an emerging trend that is quickly changing how information is shared. "The Cloud" is a difficult concept to nail down and can mean different things to different people. At a very basic level "the cloud" is anything that can be stored or submitted in a virtual space via the internet. However, this is a very basic definition and by no means all encompassing. Since cloud computing is a new concept, we can expect more possibilities  as time passes.

At present there are three major uses for cloud computing: Software as a service (SaaS), utility computing and managed service providers (MSP). These branch off into many different sub categories, but these are the major contenders. SaaS is a fast-growing and popular choice for many consumers and businesses. This option allows a single application to be accessed via the Internet and does not require software licensing. Essentially, for the consumer, this option provides support from the vendor and requires very little, if any maintenance. Some ILS vendors are leaning towards SaaS for smaller libraries that cannot afford to purchase servers.

Utility computing in currently used by IT personnel as a virtual datacenter for data storage and virtualization over a network. This option is great if a facility is short on space or cannot afford more servers. This application is easily transferrable to library environments.

MSP is essentially applications intended for IT personnel, such as desktop management and anti-spam monitoring. This is a broad category that has been around for a while and provides a base for many different applications.

This is just a brief overview of cloud computing and it will be the purpose of this project to continue exploring this topic. This is a very exciting development in the history of information science and it will be an interesting journey.

Gruman, Galen & Knorr, Eric. What Cloud Computing really means. InfoWorld.