Learn and Play

CML is encouraging staff to learn about some Web 2.0 technologies by taking part in activities designed to introduce those who are unfamiliar with things like blogging. You know, the "I've-heard-of-it-but-never-done-it-myself" syndrome; as a Gen X'er, I've certainly been afflicted with that condition and I know I'm not alone among my library colleagues.

As one of our first projects, we were asked to set up a blog. Hi, meet my blog!

We were also asked to comment on lifelong learning habits, mentioning which we found easiest and which we found hardest.

Easiest for me, believe it or not, is viewing problems as challenges. Why? I'm an optimist at heart and a bit competitive as well. What that means is that part of me likes to put a positive spin on things (for my peace of mind) and part of me just doesn't like to fail.

Hardest? Using technology to my advantage. My life is so busy that it's more tempting for me to continue doing something in a way I know than to set aside time to learn about new methods.

It's a 106 miles to Chicago, we've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes; it's dark and we're wearing sun glasses. Hit it!

To celebrate the inevitable end of summer, D. and I are making like Jake and Elwood and heading off to that toddlin' town for a long weekend. Points on the itinerary are sure to include the Art Institute and Field Museum, and, of course, the Chicago Public Library http://www.chipublib.org/.

But let's face it - we're really going for the food. Chicago is known for its deep dish pizza (which we plan to consume) and its stockyards (which we plan to avoid). We are going to dine at an upscale vegetarian restaurant called Green Zebra on Friday night, so faithful readers of this blog can look forward to our observations on this eatery.

See you in a week-ish!