#16

St. Joseph's site set up an intesting wiki where subjects are listed and choosing one, such as cooking, brings up other subcategories users can click on. A list of available books in the library is shown after clicking on one of the links, such as vegetarian. What differs from a regular catalog, however, is the other available information. Links to cooking recipes, cooking tips from the staff, and even links to cooking as a career are given. Even more interesting and useful is that the site has been tailored to fit local interests, such as links to a local farmer's market and chocolate factory. On the downside, some users may find it too cluttered if all they are looking for is just a book.

Also interesting is the reviews on BookLovers Wiki. Patrons who find a terrific-sounding review from another patron or staff member can click on the link and check the catalog for availablility. Patrons don't always realize they can ask a librarian for a good book, so librarians must find other ways to 'booktalk' their wares. Patrons may very well select a book/movie/CD/etc. that they might not otherwise consider if they see that is has been wiki'd. With Amazon.com's popularity, it is only natural for patrons to expect to find the same sort of information through libraries' sites. Allowing participation with Wikis also allow the patrons to feel more connection and pride with their library. Wikis are just yet another tool to help librarians with the ultimate goal: providing accurate, timely, and easy-to-retrieve information.