Video
conferencing options get even better.
Video conferencing heavyweight Polycom has just released a new sub $600 PC-based video
conferencing system (ViaVideo). The system connects to a computer via USB port, supports
video at 30 frames per second (FPS) and makes use of H.323, the latest and most promising
video conferencing standard. This unit solves many problems found in previous video
conferencing systems - such as lack of quality or extremely high prices.
Learn more by visiting Polycom's
web site -
How many libraries filter?
A large study recently conducted found that only 16.8% of public libraries
filter Internet content. This number is only a slight increase from 1998. One
interesting fact - 36.1% libraries serving larger populations (in excess of 100,000) use
filters; while only 12.7% of libraries serving populations smaller than 25,000 use
filters.
Read
more |
What will
be the next Napster?
With much discussion related to the anticipated demise of Napster many
have begun to look for the "next Napster". One idea, Aimster, allows users
to combine Instant Messaging and the peer-to-peer model for file sharing over a private,
encrypted session. While another possibility being pushed in the library community,
Docster, offers a possible solution for the future of document delivery. The issue
to remember is that users have seen the power of Napster and its peer-to-peer file
sharing, from this will spring a number of ideas based on the same technologies. More on Aimster: http://www.zdnet.com/zdnn/stories/news/0,4586,2614136,00.html
More on Docster: http://www.libraryjournal.com/docster.asp
Microsoft Reader Available for the PC
Ready to see Microsoft's entry into the Ebook world? While at one
time you needed to purchase a palm computer running Window CE 3.0, it's now possible to
evaluate Microsoft Reader using your PC. Last week Microsoft released the first
version of their reader software for PC's running Windows. Along with the release of
the PC version of Reader BarnesandNoble.com have released 2000 MS Reader titles and
promise another 150 titles each week. Initial observations indicate that Microsoft
Reader titles are both less expensive (many titles are between $10-$20) and somewhat more
flexible than NuvoMedia Ebook titles.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/vtech/080900/microsoft.sml
Download the reader software: http://www.microsoft.com/reader/
NOLA Ebook Initiative
Due to growing interest in the Ebook format, Tom
Casey from NOLA is coordinating an Ebook evaluation project. The project will
examine both the viability of circulating Ebooks and compare the NuvoMedia Rocket Ebook to
devices running the Microsoft's Reader software. Up to 10 participating libraries
will purchase multiple reader devices and a significant number of titles (50-70) to be
used by the public. Beginning this Fall the devices will be circulated for six
months during which time we will evaluate use, staff and patron attitudes, reader
durability, and total circulation. At the end of the evaluation NOLA will analyze
the results and make them available for the library community. If your library would
like to participate in the program please contact the NOLA office.
How much is your vote worth?
Sell your vote to the highest bidder. Daring concept? Interesting
political statement? Money making scheme? You decide. There wasn't much content
today when I checked and you could only buy 7 votes, but I'd expect to hear more about
this site over the next few months.
Take a look: http://www.voteauction.com
Surplus Equipment:
NOLA has the following available for purchase:
| 14" SVGA monitor |
$15.00 |
| Orange Typing table |
$5.00 |
| 17 Brown stacking chairs |
$5.00 each |
| AT&T Digital Answering Machine |
$5.00 |
| Printer Stand (Wood Grain) |
$10.00 |
| Okidata Microline 320 Printer |
FREE |
| 8 Conference Chairs with casters |
$10.00 each |
If you are interested please contact Anne Hoerig in the NOLA office.
Items submitted by:
Brad Stephens - Email
NOLA Regional Library System
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