Library 2.0

The words that come to my mind regarding Library 2.0 are: feedback, input, and conversation. Unlike the stereotypical version of a library, libraries using the new social networking technologies allow their users to become major players in the content and presentation of the web-based virtual library. This occurs because the users can give instant feedback to the staff in real-time, plus they can add their own content to the virtual library site. In many cases, this acts to enrich the site and make it more attractive to other users.

As far as using these technologies in my library, it goes back to the first thing I learned in library school, "know your audience." In my hospital library, I do have some younger users who use many of the web 2.0 technologies. I also have many more users who are much older and who are still adjusting to basic computer use. So far I have offered to set up RSS feeds to some of the younger ones with some success. I do plan to eventually add links to RSS feeds to the major medical journals on our library web site. I'm also considering a blog as a possible mechanism for a library newsletter. Because I have no interest in re-inventing the wheel, I link to video tutorials whenever possible instead of making my own. As far as the other great tools I have learned about in this class, I will have to experiment more with them before I decide how to use them in the library.