Technology

Google Apps

When it comes to creating apps and other software that make your life easier, Google can’t be beat. Having a Gmail account is becoming indispensable (especially since sites like YouTube require a Google account). Did you know that embedded within your Gmail account is an entire suite of productivity software that you can use for free?

Google Drive is an app suite that allows you to create and store online files. With Google Drive, you can create text documents, presentations, spreadsheets, forms, and drawings. Google Drive offers 5 GB of free space with the ability to purchase an additional 25 GB of space for $2.49 per month. Like Google Docs, you can share your files and collaborate with others. You can also download Google Drive to  your desktop or mobile phone and access your files wherever, whenever. You don’t need to worry about carrying an USB drive since your files are instantly available through your Gmail account. Ditch the USB drive and live a stress-free life by switching to Google Drive.

Google Chat is an in-email feature that gives you the option to chat with your email contacts. If you have a microphone and some spare change, you can use Google Voice to speak with your contacts over the internet (similar to Skype).

In addition, you can keep up with your favorite websites through Google Reader, shop for Android apps with Google Play, plan a trip with Google Maps, and read a classic novel with Google Books. Google even has some apps in beta, so you can see what might be the Next Big Thing with Google. Explore your Google account to discover what this technology giant has to offer!

Technology

Songify

If you’re like me and have a tendency to sing in your car (or anyplace where there’s no one around), then Songify is the app for  you. Creating a song is as easy as speaking the words into the inbuilt microphone on your smartphone device. The app then converts your song into music…or something like that. Songify is brought to you by the same people who created AutoTune the News (if you’re unfamiliar with the series, you should check it out.). The Songify app is available for free on iTunes and in the Google Play store.

Technology

App of the Week

If you’ve ever been curious about e-books but don’t want to pay a lot of money for a Kindle or a Nook, download Overdrive instead!

Overdrive is an app that gives you access to e-books and audiobooks from many public and college libraries and is available for multiple devices (PCs, Macs, and smartphones, among others). Right now, you can download audiobooks available at NOVA though Overdrive. To download Overdrive, visit http://www.overdrive.com/software/omc/.

Once you install Overdrive onto your device, search for your local library. Once you’ve selected your library, browse or search for the book you want (remember that not all books are available electronically.) From there, enter your library account information to download the book.

After downloading your book, access it through Overdrive:

Like traditional print books, there is a limit on how long you can keep it. Most books downloaded from VCCS can be borrowed for two weeks. Borrowers are unable to access the digital book once the lending period is over.

Go ahead and give Overdrive a try today!

Photographs, Staff

So Long Ande !

Ande Tensae

Ande Tensae, Evening Reference Librarian, recently said goodbye to the Library and its staff and patrons after eighteen months of outstanding service.  His last day on the job was Thursday , June 14th.

Ande was hired in January of 2011 to help out at the library service desks during weekday evenings and on Saturdays.  He brought with him a wealth of experience in libraries, both on the front lines and as a supervisor and administrator, as well as academic teaching experience.  This employment profile allowed Ande to step in as a valuable member of the library team from day one.

Perhaps even more beneficial to the library and to everyone who came in contact with him were Ande’s excellent customer service skills and his ever present positive attitude.  He made many friends among staff and students with his engaging manner and quick smile, and helped countless students with their research through use of his excellent reference service skills.  As he begins the next chapter of his life, travelling with his wife and young son to an academic teaching post in Canada, we extend to him our gratitude and wish him all the best.

Ande – you will be greatly missed!

Written by Bill Fleming.

Notices, Staff

Excellent work Travis Nace!

Library Specialist, Travis Nace, is the newest recipient of the coveted Pine-O-Saurus companion, the peer awarded symbol of recognition for his service excellence.  From his predecessor’s (Judy Blicharz) announcement:

“Travis is one of those un-sung heroes who go about their job efficiently, effectively, and always cheerfully. I have witnessed countless times in the Library, where Travis will stop what he’s doing and answer a question, direct a student, help with a piece of technology, or assist with any of the other many requests that are made on his time. His patient effort has not gone unnoticed.”

“His service hours toward a greener NOVA are admirable! I am proud to work with someone who cares enough to make a difference for the enjoyment of all. I commend Travis for showing us how exemplary customer service is done!”

Here’s Travis and Pine-O-Saurus in front of a Travis planned, erected and maintained New Books Display – a library favorite!  Congratulations Travis!

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