3rd Reading Assigment

Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and its Implications for Libraries

Source:
Maness, Jack. Library 2.0 Theory : Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries [Electronic Version]. Webology 3(2), June 2006.
http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html



Abstract:

The author discussed the concept of Web 2.0 and its application to libraries.
He also presented a number of ways of web 2.0 applications that can be of help to library services. This included synchronous messaging, streaming media, blogs, wikis, social networks, tagging, RSS feeds, and mashups. These services were discussed by the author its description, advantages and short history. Most of these technologies that are used by the library clients are user-centered, provides multimedia experience, socially rich and communally innovative.



Things I’ve Learned
1) There are many ways to apply web 2.0 in a library setting.
2) There are many available resources for Library 2.0. The decision of the librarian whether what resources should be used depends on the needs of the Library and its clients.
3) Library 2.0 is a challenge for libraries. It is providing new and interesting resources for librarians to continue to do what they have always done so well in the past—bringing order out of chaos and making information readily available.

Reflections:
As I’ve read the article, I’ve learned so much about web2.0 applications that would be very helpful in many library services. Though I’ve been introduced to some of the applications like blogs, reference chat, podcast and social networking, I was very surprise that many other technologies can still be applied. Honestly, these applications make the library works less complicated especially for SDI and CAS.

As a reference librarian before, I experienced how to manage blogs and the reference chat service. I thought that these applications can only be used for personal reasons but what we are doing as librarians is maximizing the use of these technologies so we can reach out to our clients.