TinyURL
From LIS 460 Summer 2007
Contents |
What is a TinyURL?
This service provided by a company with the same name, shortens long URL links so people can easily send links to one another via email, or any other web service. Users can either go directly to tinyurl.com, or install a link on a browser's tool bar.
There are other services that provide URL-shortening. this oneallows for tracking of link usage stats.
All URL-shortening services offer a permanent link, not just a temporary link to be used from one sender to another.
School Library Connections
Shortening a URL can make providing information via the web less frustrating--no broken links when trying to copy a long URL (or long URLs taking up space in a message.) This service is especially good when providing news or resources to busy teachers and administrators. It is also useful if the SLMS is sending updates and information with microblogging services that only allow a limited number of characters.
School librarians choosing to use this service should consider training others about the possible pitfalls. See Issues and Concerns box below.
Web Links and News
Technorati's roundup of all things related to TinyURL
zdnetnews item
Concerns about Use
When tinyURL users send a link to someone, the receiver has no way of knowing exactly where that link is coming from. The potential for havoc to a network is obvious. To remedy this, the company has created a "pit stop" at the tinyURL site, that would allow a user to see precisely what the tinyURL link is.
Even with this service, school employees should take precaution--opening a link to something like spam could hurt the network (by releasing spyware, for example)or expose a student to unsavory, questionable content.
