Library 2.0

Terriann Mills - 00026824

Nichelle Denoon

LIBS 140: Computer Application in Libraries

10 April 2009

Library 2.0

The search for information has and will always be ongoing. Each day individuals are seeking new and innovative ways to retrieve, disseminate and store information. Libraries are one of our main sources of information and thus they need to stay on top of all the latest technological advancements in relation to their services offered. Many libraries are still stuck in the “paper based” age though, but with the implementation of Web 2.0 services, this is beginning to change rapidly.

Web2.0 refers to the development of online services that encourage collaboration, communication and information sharing (SLIANTE). When Web 2.0 is introduced into libraries, the result is, Library 2.0 which is the application of interactive, collaborative, and multi-media web-based technologies to web-based library services and collections (Maness 2006).

According to Maness’ theory for Library 2.0 there are four (4) fundamental elements to understanding it which include; it’s user centered, provides a multi-media experience, is socially rich and it’s commercially innovative. Some essential Library 2.0 services are; Social networking [Facebook, Bebo], Video and photo sharing [YouTube, Flickr], Blogs [Wordpress, BlogPulse], Microblogging [Twitter, Tumblr], Social bookmarking, [del.icio.us, Digg], Wikis [Wikipedia, Library Success] and Resource organizing [Pageflakes, Netvibes]. This paper will discuss the benefits of Blogs, Wikis and Social Networks in library operations.

1. Blogs

The word Blog is the shortened version of the term Weblog. A Blog is a type of journal which is posted on the internet, either as part of or as a website itself (e.g. The Shifted Librarian). They are highly interactive, easy to use, free and anyone can create their own. Blogs can be used as a form of publication in libraries. They are integral productions in a body...