Thing 12: Do You Digg?

I explored all of the social media sites listed and ended up with Digg. It offers customization which seemed an upgrade from the other sites. I selected an article from the New York Times to 'digg'. I understand the point behind these sites but personally I won't use my account again.

I find the sites to be "productivity detractors". I am not sure I want to fill my head with all this news and information. I do have some interests that I like to keep up on and will use bloglines to keep up to date (now that we have learned about it!). For current events, I can check Slate, Salon, New York Times or the Strib.

I have read stories from Newsvine and Digg that have appeared on the home page. I am sometimes left with the thoughts "this is what people thing is important to see/read? and who are these people who rated this story?" I have taken a survey of my friends and coworkers and the only ones who used this was a librarian. Maybe it is a sign of the times - bad news and all who needs to read the real news?

A library could use this to keep up to date on interests of their users. Maybe it will help with collection development or reference questions. It might spark an idea for a class, event or even a display. As a librarian, being up to date and aware is a premium. In my current job, I have to limit what is in my purview to be up to date on.

Thing 12 content found here