"Thing 15: Read a few perspectives on Web 2.0, Library 2.0 & the future of libraries"

"Maryland Libraries Learning 2.0"



Wikipedia describes Library 2.0 in a concise nutshell: as "a loosely defined model for a modernized form of library service that reflects a transition within the library world in the way that services are delivered to users. The focus is user-centered change and participation in the creation of the content and community." It describes the "Key principles of Library 2.0:

1) Browser +Web 2.0 Application + Connectivity= Full-featured OPAC

2) Harness the library user in both design and implementation of services

3) Library users should be able to craft and modify library provided services

4) Harvest and integrate ideas and products from peripheral fields into library service models

5) Continue to examine and improve services and be willing to replace them at any time with newer and better services."



Rick Anderson of the University of Nevada, Reno Libraries, says to "Row Your Library Boat (Away for the Icebergs) into the Web 2.0 Environment" His "icebergs" to avoid are keeping materials in the collection "just in case" they are needed, "reliance on user education" (he feels library services should be accessible without training), and the "come to us model of library service (he feels we need to place "library services and content in the user's environment...the Web, daily patterns of work, study and play." He feels this is crucial for libraries to be relevant now and in the future.



Chip Nilges of OCLC says "Build New Services with Web 2.0 Technologies for More Powerful Ways to Cooperate." He feels it is important to"touch the entire web, collect user intelligence, release lightweight services and build better data " by cooperating.



Micheal Stephens, librarian & blogger, says to "Sharpen these skills for Librarian 2.0" and "Enter into a New World of Librarianship".

He says "user-centered libraries breakdown barriers and allow users access wherever they are: home, work commuting, school or at the library. The "Librarian 2.0 embraces Web 2.0 tools, controls technolust (uses technology to meet users needs not just because it is new), makes good yet fast decisions, is a trendspotter and gets content (guided by how users access, consume and create content."

I love his ending paragraph: "Librarian 2.0 also listens to staff and users when planning, tells the stories of successes and failures, learns from both, celebrates those successes, allows staff time to play and learn, and never stops dreaming about the best library services.



These articles stress the importance of embracing quality changes to meet users' needs. It can be exciting and challenging.