LIS 260 Field Trip

Destination IRRI.

We left UP around six in the morning. The trip to IRRI is part of our class in LIS 260. I have to admit this was my first time to go to IRRI. Although we left UP in such and early time, we still encountered some traffic along the way, but generally the trip was fast and smooth. We arrived 15 minutes before nine just enough time for us to have a quick breakfast. After the lightning fast breakfast we went to the IRRI library. The librarians there was great and very accommodating they prepared a presentation for us to listen. From the presentation I have learned that the library system currently being use by IRRI is Millenium. This library system is one of the best in the field and it is also one of the most costly library system. The system would cost you millions. After the presentation the librarians gave us a tour of the library. The collection of IRRI generally consist of materials relating to rice.

The library also use several Web 2.0 technology in providing service to their clientele. Some of the technology they are using are instant messaging, email, and web conferencing. They use instant messaging and web conferencing in providing reference service to their clients. Their document delivery is done using email.

The three things I have learned:
1. It is really good to use Web 2.0 technology in providing library service. It facilitates faster communication between the librarian and the client.
2. As librarians we must be resourceful in order to serve our clients better.
3. I have also learned that a library system is a tool that we should invest since this will facilitate the information retrieval between our clients and our collections.

Reflection:
Same as other library, the IRRI library is also competing for funding and for its continuous service to its clientele. In order to continuously serve our clients we should be innovative and resourceful. The trip has also motivated me to further study IT in order to be more useful in the institution I'm working.