As we so often like to do, we search iGoogle Gadgets for the latest virtual gadgets. We did our usual search today (under "Ann Arbor") scrolled down the list and - Surprise! We found our first LGBT gadget. Actually, we suspect there are many LGBT gadgets out there; we just have to maintain our local focus in our searches. This is the gadget developed for the Common Language Books bookstore (317 Braun Court, Ann Arbor). This gadget is amazingly easy to add to your iGoogle homepage. Have both the iGadget GLBT Books gadget link and your iGoogle webpage open. Click the "Add It Now" button, and - boom - it's on the/your iGoogle homepage.
The GLBT Books gadget is a virtual reproduction of the Common Language bookstore website, of course. What we first noticed is the similar conformity to other bookstore web pages - is this a subtle signal of an LGBT community feeling accepted? It may be, as the bookstore bills itself as a "community resource" and not just a retail store. True, it seems that their cause is more humanitarian than that of social reform. The gadget is broken down into ten fairly standard sections - including the Homepage.
The other fairly standard gadget sections are; Online Store, Hours, Contact, Directions, Book Clubs, Join eMail List, Events, Book Reviews and so on. However, to access these essential parts of the gadget, you must "enter through the back door". (We are aware that might be an unfortunate pun, but it seemed unavoidable to our review). Your GLBT Books entry portal to other sections is only through the Featured Book Review which seems to cover the gadget face - which is fairly standard to these gadget types.
However, the future of this gadget is uncertain and it may become a "collector's item". As pointed out by Keith Orr, sales seemed good for Common Language the first two years. Lately, sales have become almost dismal - threatening the survival of this community resource/retail store. Please have a look at this GLBT Books iGoogle gadget or even install it on your page! The conformity of this gadget with other retail gadgets could be a reminder of how easy it is for multiple elements in social media to get along.
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