Thing #43: Libraries and Hyperlocal Information

I continue to be amazed at the amount of information on the Internet! After checking out the suggested sites, I discovered 2 that I would definitely use: everyblock and placeblogger.

Talk about knowing what's going on right in your neighborhood-everyblock has it! I really like the idea of being able to click on and find out about crime in my area. Often times there are rashes of burgleries and car vandalism going on in your neighborhood and it would be very useful information to keep your family and property safe. There were other topics I viewed that were just as useful such as listings of real estate for sale and/or rent, business reviews which would really come in handy whether you're planning a night out at a new restaurant or remodeling your house, calendar of meetings in your area, and listings of cultural and art events.
What a great way to stay informed, stay safe, spend those hard-earned $$ wisely and enjoy your leisure time. I think this site's here to stay.

The 2nd site I really like is placeblogger. Right from the minute I clicked on it, I was captured by the catching leads to articles and the general set-up of the site. If there's something you need to know and you can't find it there, I don't know what it would be. It has not only articles about the local scene, but from everywhere. I found useful information on a variety of topics like making simple, cheap crafts with your kids, dating Japanese women on-line,  and scholarships available through the site just to mention a few. There were links to all kinds of information.

I think that libraries would be missing a great opportunity by not partnering with these local sites. What great, free advertising. I believe that many libraries already are filling the void in communities where these sites are not yet available. I'm amazed when browsing local library sites to find all the information they have on community activities. It wouldn't be a very big leap to add links to news both local and far-reaching and weather. The more information available on library sites, the more their patron base would expand.