Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Book: Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries : Librarians and Educators in Second Life and Other Multi-User Virtual Environments

Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries
Librarians and Educators in Second Life and Other Multi-User Virtual Environments Edited by Lori Bell and Rhonda B. Trueman Foreword by Stephen Abram

Eighty percent of Internet users are expected to engage in some form of virtual world activity by 2011 (Gartner Research Group), and librarians and educators are already there. This fascinating book—the brainchild of two pioneering virtual world librarians—is designed to help libraries and schools recognize the importance of multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) and consider ways of getting involved as they proliferate.

The editors and 24 contributors describe library, educational, and cultural projects they have undertaken. They recount their experiences working together to succeed in Second Life and other virtual worlds and explain how traditional library services such as reference, teaching, collections, discussion groups, and young adult programs can be applied in a virtual environment.

WARNING: Virtual Worlds, Real Libraries and the experiences it references may be habit forming. If you find yourself unable to escape from the virtual library environment, put down the book, disconnect your computer, and seek immediate real world attention!

Expected Publication Date: Fall 2008

1 comment:

WoW!ter said...

And you are one amongst those 24 contributors?