Friday, September 24, 2010

Week 4

YouTube and Libraries: It Could be a Beautiful Relationship
This was an enjoyable article to read, not too long yet informative. I am not a frequent user of YouTube, but it looks like a handy tool to use when trying to reach many current library users or potential users. As long as the content is yours alone, there are few limits to what can be posted and many people can access it instantly and whenever they want…the library does not have to be open to view the video.

Data Compression, Wikipedia
I liked the fact that this article used everyday examples of technology that use data compression (such as digital cameras and DVDs). The explanations of compression and decompression were clear and easily understood by readers who are not extremely tech savvy. I was also unaware that there are actually two types of compression, lossy (where some information or detail is lost) and lossless (where there is no loss of detail in the compression).

Data Compression Basics
This article goes into much more detail than the Wikipedia site, but builds upon the overview given by the aforementioned article. I appreciated the charts provided for a visual to help understand the concepts explained, but it was still a bit much for me to absorb after one read-through!

Imaging Pittsburgh
This article was fascinating to read, especially because I am from the Pittsburgh area. I give lots of credit to those involved in such a tremendous undertaking. I was somewhat surprised at the amount of challenges facing this project, but the outcome has definitely been worth it. If only every collection/archive were given this opportunity!

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