Wednesday, April 9, 2008

What is Library 2.0? #2

What is Library 2.0? L2, as it is termed, is a set of tools to connect with the current trends in internet and online communication. It is the library version of Web 2.0.

Where will libraries put these tools to use? In interactions with patrons, colleagues. As a way to complete tasks and manage information.

Relevancy appears to be an earmark for moving into the new world of online information. There does not seem to be any way to continue in information provision without being aware of the need that many, especially younger but many boomer as well, patrons methods for accessing information are electronic.

The computer and the internet cannot be ignored, and are wonderful tools to use in accessing, storing and retrieving information.

Books will not go away. It is too lovely to sit in a comfortable chair, enjoying the pleasure of reading from a physical book. But information needs are often conscious of time constraints, to a greater extent in this rush world of ours.

The electronic tools developed so far (RSS, Wikis, podcasts, blogs among others) may provide other ways to connect with this information and with others.The main effort is too learn how to use these tools, and then use them appropriately.

Learning new things is fascinating. Libraries are an educational institution, and as such are places where people can learn alone and in groups. What a great place to grow in personal and professional abilities.