This little book offers big value for the new school librarian as he or she struggles in—as the subtitle accurately states—an isolating profession. . . . Harlan offers commonsense information about professional development opportunities using both old and new technologies. . . . She also offers advice on how to manage all of this. Related information, hints, and Web sites are set off within the text but do not break the flow of the narrative. An extensive glossary adds to the value. As with any book dealing with technology, one hopes for frequent revisions to keep the information current.

Booklist

Harlan, a school librarian, explains how to build a personal learning network for librarians who want to feel connected to the educational world and enhance their professional growth. She details aspects of Web 2.0 for those new to the environment; describes the use of RSS feeds, wikis, blogs, social bookmarking, social networking, podcasting, vodcasting, short message blogging through Twitter, book networks, and Second Life; and provides background on the importance of professional development, as well as traditional tools like conferences, organizations, online courses, and listservs. She gives descriptions of many sites throughout.

Reference & Research Book News

. . . it contains information all school librarians will find useful. . . . This is a well researched and written resource with an impressive list of websites . . . Recommended.

Library Media Connection

Harlan offers ways to be involved in national, state, and local organizations and online conferences and courses (many are low-cost or free). Although this book was written for school librarians, it is highly recommended for all librarians who are new to using social networking tools.

School Library Journal

This guide is recommended for librarians new to the profession or new to the technology involved in running a twenty-first century school library media center.

Catholic Library World