My review will highlight the main issues raised in the article and discuss the validity and currency of the ideas put forward. Overall I enjoyed this article, which had some great links to excellent Web 2.0 readings and examples.
This article focuses on Library 2.0 as a new service model for libraries. At the heart is “user-centered change”, so that any service which effectively reaches users, both current and new, is regularly assessed and is collaborative can be called "Library 2.0". An important point they raise is that this doesn't necessarily involve technology, although it does give libraries the opportunity to offer new services to clients.
They also discuss the important issues of constant feedback, communication, evaluation and updating of services. These individual elements are each critical, but it's in their combination that they become most effective and achieve Library 2.0. An interesting point they raise is about libraries attracting the 'long tail’. What this means is that in addition to serving our traditional clients we should also tailor our services to attract the many non-users, and the authors suggest that web 2.0 technologies can help us to achieve this. Collaboration is also raised as another important consideration and as a future way of working. A lot of Web 2.0 tools emphasise collaboration and libraries can build on this. Finally technology and its ability to ease the existence of Libraries 2.0 is discussed, along with the acknowledgement that many libraries don't have the time or awareness that is required.
This article considers current library users, but also other members of the community who may not be traditional users. It looks to open up the library to as many members of the community as possible. This article definitely addresses user needs as it proposes Library 2.0 as a service model that is capable of reaching all members of the community.
The article mentions different technologies that are in use in many libraries today and is definitely related to current libraries. It mentions tools such as flickr, blogs, MySpace and Facebook, Wikipedia, which are being used by many libraries around the world. The author's definition of Library 2.0 does not necessitate technology, rather it is a new model to use in serving our clients
It was an interesting article to read, yet I am not convinced that Library 2.0 is a new concept. The web 2.0 technologies have allowed for more opportunities to be exploited, but I believe that libraries have always looked to provide excellent customer service and continually strive to service as much of the community as possible. I believe Maness [1] makes a valid point when he says
“While Library 2.0 is a change, it is of a nature close to the tradition and mission of libraries. It enables the access to information across society, the sharing of that information, and the utilization of it for the progress of the society. Library 2.0, really, is merely a description of the latest instance of a long-standing and time-tested institution in a democratic society. Web 2.0 and libraries are well suited for marriage, and many librarians have recognized so.”
Overall I found this a very informative article, with interesting information and examples. I believe it is a thought provoking piece, with examples to explore if the reader was interested and also good links to readings, blogs and 2.0 on the web already.
For further inspiration check out this video which shows one librarian's thoughts about what Library 2.0 means to her. [2]
If you want to read the article reviewed click here.
[1] Maness, J. M. (2006). Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries. Webology, 3 (2). Retrieved August 29, 2009, from http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html
[2] Cohen, L. (2006). A Librarian's 2.0 Manifesto [video]. Retrieved on September 1, 2009, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZblrRs3fkSU
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Some of the nicest people I meet are librarians.
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Russ (Blogger next blog)