AzLA conference notes: Library 2.0

A discussion of how the Pima County Public Library implemented "Library 2.0" features. Library 2.0 is the use by libraries of Web 2.0 features, including blogs, wikis, forums, and community networking sites. This "second-generation" web is focused on collaborative and shared information, and it is not so much a new technology as a "new attitude." Library 2.0 can be defined as a new, user-centered paradigm, where the user is in control of how and when they access information. Libraries become organizers of self-expression rather than sole providers of information, and library users become empowered contributors of information, not just consumers.

Librarians who work with young people have noted that this generation is especially receptive of Web 2.0 and Library 2.0. Young people using online services expect to be able to comment on websites, have their own user profiles, and have platforms for their creativity. Pima county’s teen book and poetry forum has been extremely successful. A recent program on MySpace, addressing the use of the service and safety concerns, was also very successful with young people and their parents, especially because they had media coverage.

Some examples of the use of Library 2.0 include podcasts at the Orange County Library System and Denver Library. LibraryThing allows readers to catalog books in their own personal libraries (and potentially at public libraries) and to assign tags, which act as customized subject headings.

Some considerations should be kept in mind before implementing library blogs, wikis, or other Web 2.0 tools:
* Know how staff stand on new technologies. Administration must support this new vision of library service. The new tools should be thoroughly explained to other staff members, with examples of how they are relevant to daily work, so they do not feel threatened by the changes. Technical staff should take part in the implementation to make sure hardware, software, and server requirements are met.
* Work with what you have. Non-technical staff might have to learn to use these tools if a technical department is not available to work on them full-time. Be brave enough to try new things, even if you might have trouble with them, in order to keep up with patrons.
* Evaluate software options. Free software is most affordable, but it is often advertiser-supported, and patrons may think the library is endorsing these advertisers. Open-source software is free and can be edited and customized, if staff knows how. Proprietary software may be customizable, but added options can be very expensive. You should always consider whether the benefit is worth the cost.