| Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries |
 |
 |
 |
| Written by Staff Writer |
|
Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries Librarians and Educators in Second Life and Other Multi-User Virtual Environments
With the familiarity that comes from experience the editors and 24 contributors describe library, educational, and cultural projects they have undertaken. They recount their experiences working together to succeed in Second Life and other virtual worlds and explain how traditional library services can be applied in a virtual environment. The book points out research showing that eighty percent of Internet users are expected to engage in some form of virtual world activity by 2011 (Gartner Research Group), with librarians and educators already there in growing numbers. This fascinating book—the brainchild of two pioneering virtual world librarians—is designed to help libraries and schools recognize the importance of multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) and consider ways of getting involved as they proliferate. "This is not just a collection of extraordinary stories. It’s an operating manual for success!" - Claudia L’Amoreaux If you wish to visit the site you can listen to authors Lori Bell and Rhonda B. Trueman discuss their book, Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries. Information Today, Inc. http://books.infotoday.com/books/VirtualWorlds.shtml 2008/272 pp/softbound © 1995 - 2011, Information Today |
The RL names of the two editors and the 24 contributors may not sound familiar but SL names like Lorelei Junot, Abbey Zenith, Daisyblue Hefferman, Jeremy Kabumpo, Fleet Goldenberg, and Rocky Vallejo will be quickly identified by those in the library and education communities of SL. Writers talk about current programs, how they started and what they have contributed to the growing success of library services in a virtual environment such as SL. Along with what has already been accomplished, the book discusses the innovative ideas for things to come in the fields of teaching, reference work, library collection, young adult programs and much, much more. I read this book cover to cover and found it both enjoyable and insightful.