It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, it is because we do not dare that things are difficult (Seneca)

Thoughts on 23 things:

I have thoroughly enjoyed my trip through 23 things. I was apprehensive at the beginning but the camaraderie and team spirit generated by the programme has made it a great experience. I just had to whisper ’23 things’ at gatherings of librarians and there was always a loud whisper back. It has got us all talking about widgets and gadgets which is fantastic.

I confessed in the early days to being a complete novice with all things web 2.0. I had vaguely heard of some things but had no real idea what they were. I doubted that I would be able to keep up and fulfil the tasks each week but I am pleased to say that I stayed the course and tried them all out – some more successfully than others.

My own particular favourite has been my blog. I have loved going back twice weekly to this familiar friend to update my experiences. This has been an excellent vehicle to make sure each task was completed. Without it I could very easily have fallen by the wayside but the incentive to blog on kept me going. Other highlights have been creating my iGoogle page, delicious book-marking, twitter and googledocs.

I have now discovered a confidence to use the technology for my subject areas. My next challenge will be to decide which tools to use. Determining my user base and thinking about the information they need/want will help to inform my choices but it is with many thanks to the 23 things team that I have so many tools in the box. I just need to find the best ones for the job.

A very positive knock-on from the programme is knowing that the level of support and expertise has been ramped up out there in the library sector. If I get stuck there are so many more people now who can assist – if I ask very nicely….

It has been a great trip but it is good to know that there will be many more things to do on the next leg of the journey. Thank you for the experience!