So here I am, three months later, bored with writing and ready to try something new. With that in mind, I offer the all-new Open Stacks Podcast #1.

If you want to listen, just click on the link, save the file to your hard drive and listen to it in the media player of your choice. Don't be afraid of the word podcast; it's just an mp3 file, as normal as can be. However, if you're an iPod user or have an aggregator that downloads enclosures automatically, you might want to grab my podcast feed. If you have no idea what I'm talking about or are interested in more info about podcasting, here's the Wikipedia entry, which has a list of relevant resources. I'd be happy to try to answer any questions as well, so feel free to use the contact form.

This first show is a little rough and I already have some ideas for how to do it better next time. My real goal is to demonstrate the potential of the format and encourage others to follow suit and do it better.

Here's some show notes and related links:

Why a podcast? Why this podcast?
Greg's job description
Quick mentions of the fate of LIS Blogsource, the new and (we like to think) improved Library Stuff and the forthcoming Computers in Libraries conference
A closer look at Adam Mathes' paper on folksonomies, concluding with an incoherent thought or two of my own.

Related links: Robin Good's "synthesis-edit" of the Mathes paper
Lou Rosenfeld's thoughts on folksonomies
Clay Shirky's response to Mr. Rosenfeld (read the comments too)
Jenny's comments on making better use of folksonomies in OPACs, etc.

This show is 27 minutes long, which is a bit more than I anticipated (and something to tighten up for future episodes). My recording setup is a bit on the lo-fi side, made most noticeable when I'm too close to the mic, but I think it's serviceable. If this idea really takes off, perhaps I'll upgrade my equipment.

So take a listen and tell me what you think. You know you want to, even if it's just to count the number of times I say "um" in the course of 27 minutes of rambling. I'd love to get some feedback, whether on the concept or the content. I'm sure I say some foolish, misguided and downright erroneous things. I'm not afraid to say them, so don't be afraid to call me out on them. Your ideas and comments are always welcome.

I may as well mention that I've been podcasting for a few weeks in another context: Preserves, Jellies and Jams, which is dedicated to sharing choice cuts from concert recordings that I've accumulated over the years. I cordially invite you to give that show a listen, if you're so inclined.

Until next time...