The Librarians of Second Life are an outstanding group of librarians who are working together to build information delivery systems with the virtual environment of Second Life.  This network is an example of how Web 2.0 allows professionals to collaborate in new ways across great distances.  Volunteering time, expertise, and creativity, this group has built numerous in-world exhibits and provides helpful information to newcomers, educators, and individuals from around the globe. 

Second Life has been criticized for having a “difficult learning curve.”  Finding a network of knowledgeable people to turn to is crucial to learning the skills needed to explore virtual reality. 

Without the help of HVX Silverstar, I would not have been able to begin learning machinima (filming within a virtual environment).  Numerous other helpful individuals have kindly offered help.  As I continue to learn building skills and explore immersive learning environments, such as Renaissance Island, I realize that virtual reality will impact education perhaps sooner than most people think.  Children growing up in the digital age are already comfortable with avatars, computer graphics, chat sessions, and Web 2.0.  Educators have no option but to consider new technology tools to deliver information to the next generation.  Older people are often intimidated and are the ones likely to describe the “high learning curve.”  I found the skills needed to learn in Whyville were difficult but children 9 – 13 years of age are apparently quite adept at maneuvering Whyville without difficulty.