Do you think that libraries should be in virtual worlds such as Second Life, why or why not?
I really struggled with how to answer this question at first because a traditional library would be a bit out of place in SL but if you see a library as an information center then this type of place would be an asset to SL. In SL, people are not looking to check out books but they are looking for information whether that be how to get your avatar to stop sitting down or something more complicated. If libraries in SL are information centers where residents can find resources on SL and virtual worlds then they would be filling a need. In the readings these great example of medical students and business students using virtual worlds to try out real life situations is great. There are so many ways that virtual worlds like Second Life can be a part of the learning experience. With more people trying out Second Life it is important that places like Info Island exist to help with newbie questions and maybe even help that business professor who wants to create a project for her students in a virtual world. So, yes, libraries are needed in Second Life because information is needed in Second Life and in RL.
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I enjoyed reading your blog about libraries and Second Life. I have tons of fun when I go into SL. But the reality is, there are so many Real Life responsibilities to deal with that I feel guilty if I stay too long. Because SL seems more like a game, I'm not sure how to disconnect the fun from the learning. Maybe it's not important to disconnect the two. I applaud the effort so many academic and library groups have put into creating learning environments in SL. I have to agree that libraries have a place in first, second and real life.
"There are so many ways that virtual worlds like Second Life can be a part of the learning experience"
I agree. SL can be an excellent training vehicle if opportunities in the real world doesn't exist, yet. For example, if you live in a rural or urban area without an easy way to go to the nearest training workshop, SL can help with this. SL librarians could help trainers put together information that can help students make the transition to SL for the training.