Thing #7 - Technology

Last week at COLS, we had the opportunity to play with a tablet PC and an iPod touch. These devices are currently being tested to see if they can enhance Reference service by allowing staff to be out in the stacks instead of sitting behind a desk all day. After I played with the iPod for about 37 seconds I decided that I needed one. I am not new to MP3 players or iPods. I have one classic iPod that died (but will still occasionly work if you bang it on something long enough), a new classic to replace the old one and a pink Nano. I probably didn't need a new iPod, but on Sunday I bought one anyway. So far, I love it! When watching TV shows (I am waaaay behind on Lost), the screen is nice and large and easy to see. I am also enjoying trying out all the various applications that are available. I am sticking to the free ones for the time being. I have only had one opportunity to try it for catalog lookup, but I am hoping to test it out in the stacks next week. I think that I would prefer it over the notebook because it is lighter and fits in your pocket when you are not using it. I think my next tech purchase will be an Amazon Kindle, but I will have to wait for a price drop. $359.00 is a bit much for me.