Challenge #4 - 2nd post

This part of the Challenge has really opened up my eyes and reminded me there is so much more to Google than a search engine. I use several of the extra Google features on a regular basis: Gmail, Google Maps (sooo in love with Maps!), Google Calendar, Google Reader, Google Docs, etc. But there is so much more in the Lab than even all that! I was greatful for the reminder of all the different advanced searching techniques. The Google Cheatsheet link was added to my favorites almost immediately after I took a glance over the page. I'm going to make it a point to try to practice with those searches so they begin to feel second nature to me.

Google Books is probably the one of the most amazing things I've recently began learning about and using. Its actually helped me quite a bit at work. I have used it to search for exerpts from books on storytime tips and craft ideas, and I've found a lot of information that way! Its a great help if you need the info right then and there. Of course, I've looked up the titles in our Power PAC and if we own a copy, I'll request it so I can take a look at the full version. That's been very helpful.

I think my favorite will always be Maps, though. Before I moved here after accepting the job with OCL, I used Maps to take a look at the area and get a lay of the land so to speak. I was moving from out of state and had no idea how to get anywhere. But a little research ahead of time did the trick and I didn't feel quite so lost when I finally got here. The satellite view is great because that really gives you a feel for where something is located - is it in a residential neighborhood or is it across the street from a shopping center? If they had only had the street view feature then; I would have definitely been using that too! Google has really added new components to Maps over the past few years, and that has continued to make it a competive product.