The buzz about Web 2.0 is overrated. It’s even worse when these articles try to break down what Web 2.0 is and in explaining Web 2.0, they leave me more confused than I was before. It’s supposed to be amazing and revolutionary, right? Then when the library incorporates Web 2.0 into its services, the name changes and it becomes Library 2.0. Woo hoo!
Thinking of Library 2.0 as a service for the next-generation library instead of exclusively focusing on the technology aspect makes more sense. It is more the ideas and tools of Web 2.0 that will revolutionize how the library offers its services than the gathering of the latest technology. The article from the Library Journal leaves me with better appreciation for how it is more of rethinking how we offer library services and interact with our customers.
At the heart of Library 2.0 is the change from the “come to us” approach to a more user-centered focus where user participation and feedback is encouraged to direct changes in library services. These same services are constantly reevaluated and improved on with purposeful changes.
I liked the way Library 2.0 service is defined as any service, physical or virtual, that successfully reaches user, is evaluated frequently, and makes use of customer input. The article brings up a very valid point that new does not necessarily make a service 2.0, since older, traditional services can be considered a Library 2.0 service if it meets all the criteria.
I laughed at the droll observation that “libraries have a tendency to plan, implement, and forget,” but I’m sure we won’t go that way (cross my fingers!).
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