Since this is the summer issue of the Courier, I thought I'd offer what, for many librarians, will be quite a new perspective on the web. We're always talking to our students, patrons, and clients about how useful the web can be for their research and work. I think most of us would be at a bit of a loss, though, if we were asked casually in the elevator, cafeteria, or at the water cooler, for a suggestion or two on where to go on the web for a bit of fun. Hey, are we really that boring? In anticipation of those questions coming our way sometime between now and Labour Day, I've listed five of my own favourite websites for entertainment. Just think how this list will help librarians everywhere shatter unfounded stereotypes and hackneyed myths! Us? No fun? Ya - in your dreams, pal. Check out these sites on your holidays, at lunch, or just pass them along to inquiring minds. Above all - have fun! Internet Movie Database http://www.imdb.com This site includes an entry for practically every movie and film ever made. Go ahead, put it to the test. You'll get a complete cast list, user reviews and links to external reviews. Information on filming locations, budget, and revenue. Click on any actor's name, and you'll get a brief biography, date of birth, and complete filmography. Use it to look for movies by genre, title, actor, whatever. Get the latest on the latest, or brush up on some of your favourites from the near and distant past. Definitely a five star performance. How Stuff Works http://howstuffworks.com I'm cheating a little by including this one because it can be useful for both work and play. But I couldn't resist. Ever wanted to know how rainbows, boomerangs, or chocolate work? This is the site for you! In addition to these rather silly articles, there are longer articles on more serious topics like how credit reports, banks, credit cards, and e-commerce works. Most articles are in several parts and always include a list of useful links at the end. Best of all, you'll find the language natural and relaxed. Easy reading that will improve your chances of winning Trivial Pursuit dramatically! The Microsoft Gaming Zone http://zone.msn.com This site requires Internet Explorer - if you're prepared to do this homage at the temple of Bill Gates, you'll soon see that this site isn't just for kids. If you're the hermit type, you can plan a good game of Solitaire online. Or, if you want more fun, you can (for free) play Chess, Checkers, Bridge, Backgammon, and Cribbage against other zone members who happen to be logged on (and there are always plenty of takers). I've had a few exhilarating games of chess myself - most of the players seem to want to set an artificial game time limit of 20 minutes or so (sometimes less) - and that means you can actually squeeze a game in over a quick lunch! Merriam-Webster's Word Game of the Day http://www.m-w.com/game/ Ok, Ok - so this one is a little stereotypical. What can I say - I'm a librarian and I love words! Visit this site for a new vocabulary sharpening game every day. In addition, there's about a two-month archive of games! Games are of four types. My favourite type is called Flip Flip where the player must match synonyms and antonyms before the time runs out. All the games are based around etymologies, word building, and definitions. Play and learn at the same time! The Official Dilbert Website http://www.dilbert.com Last but far, far from least. If you don't visit this site regularly, you're really missing out on some great laughs. Not only will you get today's strip, but a month's worth of archived strips (that over thirty Dilberts!) - and the Sunday strips are even in colour! |
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