Week 6, #15

Web 2.0 and Library 2.0 are expansions of unknown dimension of web applications and potential library services. I say unknown dimension as it is vast and growing. The user of these applications and services is also part of the expansion development. Innovative minds are developing and applying applications at a rate that makes my mind spin.

Mike Walsh is a professor at Kansas State University (Lynn had mentioned his YouTube video, "Web 2.0...The Machine is Us/ing Us", in previous post) and he says that this revolution is enabling information to find us. That is a profound shift in the world of information organization.(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLlGopyXT_g)

Libraries are in a position to apply the concepts of Web 2.0 to get information, entertainment and knowledge to users without the barriers of place and time. Some examples of these applications include: (1) Butler University Library has created a reference wiki to showcase their online and print resources and enhance access (http://www.seedwiki.com/wiki/butler_wikiref/). (2) Ohio University Libraries invites its users to check out an iPod for an audio tour of its building and services - or you can download the tour on your iPod or MP3 player (http://www.library.ohiou.edu/newsblog/?p=152). (3) Georgia Perimeter College offers podcast sessions of interviews and lectures (http://www.gpc.edu/~declib/podcasts.htm).

Michael Stephens writes in December's Serial Review that Library 2.0 promises a change to the experience of the library. "The library experience is rewarding....It brings out emotions. It satisfies the user. It encourages the heart through learning, discovery and entertainment. The user is engaged, challenged and welcomed. Barriers, such as bans on technology user and stereotypical shushing make way for collaborative, flexible spaces and technology savvy librarians as guides to accessing and creating content." His vision is cool (couldn't think of a better word!).

You can spend hours finding Web 2.0 applications and viewing what libraries are doing with these innovations. In fact, I started this session at work and I am finishing it weeks later at home!