LawLibTech

December 14, 2003

Portable Flash Drives

I can't remember the last time I used a floppy disk. When I want to move files from one computer to another I usually just zip and email. For those times that I need to take files with me, sans computer, I burn a CD. You just can't fit enough on a floppy to make it a useful storage device.

There's another option, portable flash drives, sometimes called USB drives.

Because of their size, they are pretty cool gadgets. But they aren't just for fun. They're useful in any environment where you routinely need to move files and that, of course, includes libraries. They typically can hold from 8 meg to 2 gig of data. To use them, all you need to do is plug them into the ubiquitous USB port.

For more details on flash drives, and their use in libraries, see Computers in Libraries article, "Try Today's Hip Technology: Portable Flash Drives."

November 19, 2003

Wacky World of Gadgets

When it comes to gadgets, you might think you've seen it all. If so, I suspect you'd be wrong. Barbara Fullerton & Brian Neale show unique items the likes of which I've never encountered in their Internet Librarian presentation, the Wacky World of Gadgets.

The Degerminator is definitely my favorite. I HAVE to get one for my brother for Christmas. He'll be a changed man.

How about intelligent clothing. If you have a heart attack, it senses your distress and calls for medical help.

If you're taller than I am, you may want to invest in a knee defender to prevent the airplane passenger in front of you from reclining their seat.

These are just a few selections. See the entire presentation for yourself!