Method 5

6.Play with Flickr images by completing one of the following options:
i.Take a good look around Flickr and discover an interesting image that you want to include in your blog post for this method (Method 5). In your blog, include either a link to the image or, if you create a Flickr account, use Flickr’s blogging tool to add the image to your post. (Another option for including images in your post is to follow your blog’s photo upload process. For example, if you are using Blogger, you would use Blogger’s photo upload tool.)

7.Finally (whew!), create a blog post (titled “Method 5″) discussing online photo sharing. On a personal level – is it something you plan to do or perhaps something you are already doing? And on a professional level — do you see some potential uses of online photo sharing sites for libraries?

A link to a photo from Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/71432201@N00/516839794/

Online photo sharing is more convenient and organized than using film and a camera. It hasn't taken long for digital cameras to overtake film cameras. I can understand why when you consider photo sharing programs like Flickr. It is incredibly easy to upload and share. No need to take your film in for processing and creating doubles to share with others. All that is needed is a camera, a memory card, and a computer. The ability to tag pictures is also a major advantage over the old method of organizing photo albums. Storage is also much easier. It takes up space on the drive but not in the home. However, it is much easier to lose pictures in this way as well. Photos can be forever lost if they're not backed up properly. This is less likely to happen with print photos.

I don't take a lot of photos myself but I do have a Photobucket account and Flickr account because it makes it easier to share the photos I do take. I would like to put more pictures online and have contemplated scanning in old paper photos. I haven't gotten as far as making a plan, although it would be nice to have direct access to the old photos instead of letting them sit in boxes for years.

I can definitely see the advantage of using photo sharing sites for libraries. It is an efficient and simple way to show others what is happening at the library. It can be used to advertise programs. It can be used as a way to commemorate a program or happening. It can be used to spice up library blogs or websites. Visual elements draw people into a site or page. Using photo sharing sites are a low-cost and easy way to help libraries meet their goals.