Thing #16 Library 2.0

Library 2.0 is the new way that library services can be delivered to users. Users can participate in creating the content so there is a flow of information not only to the user, but also back from the user, who can participate and give feedback. Possibly, this new service could replace the traditional library.

There are some advantages. One problem with traditional libraries has been that you collect materials to try to meet the patron's needs, but many times those materials can go unused, and so money and time is wasted. It is also a fairly slow process to read reviews, order books, process books, shelve books and make them known to patrons. With the Internet, more people are using the Web to get information because it is quick, flexible, you can do it from anywhere, and it's fairly fast and easy to find what you want. You can also easily print it out if you need a hard copy, or e-mail it.

The focus may change from teaching patrons research skills, to creating an intuitive environment that removes the barriers that keep patrons from finding the information they need. Users are used to having instant information at the click of a mouse, and they may lose patience with the way traditional libraries work. It is more convenient for them to be able to access information from their home or office rather than visit the library.

However, the change to more technology based services should be carefully thought through so that librarians aren't implementing new technologies just for the sake of staying current. They need to really consider if a new technology meets the patron's needs in a better way as well as a new way. This will require some reading and research on the part of the library staff in order to implement the best solution for the user's needs. The library staff also needs time to play with the new technology they learn, so they can become well versed with it and enjoy it as well as learn it.

When World Cat releases the search box that will allow anyone on the Internet to search Word Cat with no authentication, that will be a big step in sharing information effectively. It will be interesting to see how the non-cataloging library staff and patrons will contribute to tagging, lists, and personal cataloging.