Surfing the Net: Google to the Next Level

How much do you know about Google?  Today’s session kicked off with attendees participating in a Google Fun Facts Game, which tested their knowledge on Google.  Our winners were awarded a Google yo-yo, from guest speaker Diana Bitting.

Diana energetically–and at times humorously–provided participants with examples of useful everyday information tools.  These Google special search features allow users to easily check the time, make mathematical calculations, define words, convert units of measurements and much more.  Other topics included iGoogle, which can be used as a “ready reference” tool for library staff through customization and gadgets available.  Lastly, how to create a Google Custom Search Engine was discussed.  Did you know that non-profit, government, or educational organizations can create a custom search engine that will show search results without ads!

Here are Diana’s resources for further exploration on Google and the tools available:

• Google for Web Search Features (http://www.google.com/help/features.htm)
• iGoogle (http://www.google.com/ig)
• Google Custom Search (http://www.google.com/coop/cse)
• Google Guide (http://www.googleguide.com)

Special thanks to the Brentwood Public Library for hosting this event.

Additonal CE Workshop Added

Due to popular demand, LILRC is running another session of:

Introduction to Google Applications

March 27, 2009
9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Farmingdale State College, Greenley Library

Directions online at: http://www.farmingdale.edu/quicklinks/IFS_Contact_Us.html
Registration Deadline: March 20, 2009
Contact: Min Liu, minliu@lilrc.org

Google Apps is a collection of web-based programs that are free to use and require no installation. The applications include communication tools, such as Gmail, Google Talk, and Google Calendar and productivity tools, such as Google Docs (text files, spreadsheets, and presentations). Customizing your start page is also available via iGoogle.

In this hands-on class, you will learn all the basics about Google Calendar, Gmail, and office suite web applications. We will cover creating an account, calendar functions, applications available and more (time permitting). Bring your questions.

Presented by: Sharper Training Solution, Inc.

Visit the LILRC Continuing Education Calendar for additional information, including the registration form.