Wiki's - The possibilities are ENDLESS!

Wiki's are really a fascinating web tool. In researching the whole idea of wiki's, it's interesting to learn that they began as a way to share ideas and knowledge between scientists and researchers. I never really thought about how easy it is to use a wiki, but it is true. You don't need to be technically savvy at all to participate in the creation of a wiki. It's actually pretty straightforward and simple. You basically clicked on the Add buttom at the top of the page and added what you wanted to add. Obviously, specific wiki's had guidelines about their style and areas that needed work such as additions, citations, and graphics. I see lots of potential in using it in a library setting. First of all, what a great way to collaborate on planning a program in your library with other librarians without having to leave your office. You could have the greatest librarians ideas across the country contributing to you Reading Celebration event, just by giving them the web address to your wiki. Because you're able to add photos and video to a wiki, the possibilities are endless! Some of the ways libraries are already using wiki's is a Book Club wiki (great idea!) and a best practices wiki for librarians (which librarian wouldn't want a place to find new ideas or share one of their own?). Reading about wiki's and how libraries are using them made me contemplate starting one myself next year for the Battle of the Books program that we use in Hillsborough County for our fourth graders. I think that they would really enjoy using technology to share their thoughts with each other. Since it's impossible for me to have a book club at once with all of our 7 fourth grade classrooms - all students could participate in it via the wiki. Just a thought:o)!