Have you heard about Google...?

We are all familiar with the Google search engine, but how many know about the other tools Google offers?  Google is rapidly becoming a mecca for technology tools, making life easier for users in a variety of ways.  Take Google Drive. 


Google Drive is a tool which enables users to connect with others in a way that could only be dreamed of once upon a time.  A person can create and share documents, presentations, forms, spreadsheets - just about anything!  the best part is, you can connect that document with anyone around the world!  Imagine!  Collaboration on documents and projects was once limited to sending and resending files.  With Google Drive, no one has to resort to the "old fashioned" way of file sharing.  This is so much cooler. 


Google Docs - Forms

You can create any form you wish in Google Docs.  There are a number of templates to choose from, or you could create your own.  It's simple.  When in your Google Drive, click on CREATE and simply choose FORM.  Follow the instructions, and you have an instant online form.  Imagine the paper you will save!  You can easily conduct surveys of all types using Google Drive Forms.  There are so many great ideas for using Google Forms in the library setting.  Here's a link to a Book Request Form, just one of the many ways in which librarians can use Google Forms.

Presentations are a snap when you use Google Drive.  Collaboration is easy enough when everyone can work together from their own place.  Check out the video below for an incredible demonstration of what Google Drive is capable of allowing: 

There are so any ways in which you can improve your library program by using Google Drive.  From lessons with students to creating surveys to team collaboration on presentations and documents.  it is all here, and oh! so easy to do.  If you are still unsure about how to get started, this Google Docs in Plain English video will give you a quick idea of just how easy Google Drive can be:

   To show you just how much Google Drive can change the way you use your library and teach, head over to a wonderful tech blog for more ideas.  Van Meter Library Voice is a super technology blog which gives great ideas on how to implement technology in the library.  It's a brand new world out there!