Google Docs.

Now this is something to be excited about!

Google Docs is an online application suite similar to Microsoft Office. Sure, there are other free apps around that one can use, like Open Office, but the key word with Google Docs is- online.

Online applications allow for two very useful things: they allow you to access your work from any online PC regardless of the software it may or may not have, and it allows for collaboration on projects by fellow co-workers. Think of a wiki experience with documents, spreadsheets and presentations!

Google Docs is simple and streamlined. The essentials are there for you to create an application that looks good, and is functional. The controls are intuitive. You are not bogged down with too many options, yet you have enough control over what you are doing to come up with an effective document.

Libraries could easily benefit from such an online application. Think of work groups that can collaborate on a single job, bringing different participants together to share their strengths.

The days of being asked, "do you have Word?" are definitely numbered.