New DISCUS Site

So, has anyone checked out the new DISCUS site? In case you haven't heard about it, let me tell you about some of the new features:

• One of the first things you'll see is an audio guide to the site. You might also notice the new logo on the page. Very nice.
• On the home page, choose a subject and find out which databases are relevant.
• Also from the home page, join the DISCUS community. To find out more, choose the "take a peek inside" option on the right hand side of the page.
• See recent news and events for DISCUS.
• There's a DISCUS Kids section where you can indicate what you're looking for (encyclopedias, dictionaries, articles) and get a list of pertinent resources.
• One of my favorite features is the tag cloud under the "How Do I Find?" tab. Keywords have been used to define databases, users' guides and other resources. Click on a tag to find everything that's been given that keyword.
• The FAQ section addresses common questions relating to DISCUS. A couple questions relating to Web2.0 are also addressed here.
• There's a training tab so you can see all upcoming trainings.
• The Toolkit is a place to find promotional material for DISCUS. You can print out handouts, powerpoint presentations and get promo ideas for your library.
• The Toolkit also provides you with technical information such as troubleshooting tips and how to get access to DISCUS from home.
• Finally, there is a "What's New" tab and a "Contact" tab. Check these out to see what the DISCUS folks have been up to and to find out how you can contact them for further information.

I just had to highlight this new State Library webpage because I think our IT and DISCUS staff have done an awesome job making this more user friendly. It's also embraces a lot of Web 2.0 aspects, which I love. I hope you'll take a few minutes and check it out. And be sure to join the community so you can participate in discussions and get information from other libraries around the state. Have a great day, everyone!