Web 2.0

Web 2.0 is really nothing new. Using new tools to support our mission is part of the Library’s evolution and history. Libraries grow and change all the time in order to stay current and vital. The ideas inherent in Web 2.0, such as community building and information sharing, are not new and can easily fit in with our traditional values. What a wonderful thing if web 2.0 tools truly help us stay connected with our users and provide for us more effective ways of communicating with each other.

While these tools facilitate information sharing, I am not sure what to make of the structures of knowledge that they create. Are there real drawbacks to all this “knowledge sharing” where everyone is an author yet no one is the expert? Where do you find the truth amidst all this sharing because, don’t forget, it is too easy to share the wrong information now, quickly, around the world. Many post first and think later. While we have more information, it is also easier to choose not to explore deeply. Yet you often need to explore deeply to really understand the truth. When libraries speak of Web 2.0, I would love to hear them mention information literacy in the same sentence. In this environment, to read and think critically, while not a new concept, is becoming increasingly important and should be part of any library’s Web 2.0 initiative.

In 1998, librarian Michael Gorman, past president of ALA, recommended the following laws of librarianship in, "Our Singular Strengths":

Libraries serve humanity.
Respect all forms by which knowledge is communicated.
Use technology intelligently to enhance service.
Protect free access to knowledge.
Honor the past and create the future.

I like to think of web2.0 in this framework, by not forgetting our past and seeking the balance between past and future. Respecting true knowledge, which is different than information and above all remembering our purpose. Web 2.0 will not make a library but it can, if used in the right way, enhance what it does.

Suffolkwave

Suffolkwave is a great way to download audiobooks to your mp3 player! The selection is good and the product is easy to use. I have been using it regularly for a couple of months. A few books that I have listened to include Freakonomics, a Luanne Rice novel, Learn Spanish in Your Car etc. The Learn Spanish in Your Car came with a PDF to read as well. The only drawback to Suffolkwave is that most books only have a 7 day loan period and you can't renew. All in all, I love Suffolkwave. I have downloaded movies and the online books have a nice interrace but I mainly use the audio.

Google Docs

Google Docs is not hard to use but I wouldn't say that it as a breeze either. It definitely has its uses. We are now using it in the Adult Department to share our calendars with each other and to make changes on the desk schedule.

Craigslist

Craigslist is online classified ads. What you expect to find is basically what you get: jobs , housing, for sale, services, personals plus discussion forums. Something for everyone, especially in the personals.

http://longisland.craigslist.org/stp/1206112195.html

Wikis

Wikis are online collaborative information sharing projects and can be a useful tool.

There are many ways that libraries can use wikis to assist staff and patrons. Here are a few ideas:

1. How about a wiki for those new to the area? It can include articles on local history and news, links, and patrons can share information about the area with others. It could be a great community resource.

2. What about a big Readers' Advisory wiki? Articles on different genres of books. Recommended titles that link to the catalog. Patrons can add reviews and compose their own articles on genres they read.

3. How about an internal staff wiki for library related projects? Other staff members can feel part of the process when they see how a project is progressing. They also can leave suggestions and express concerns.

Finding Feeds

Finding feeds is easy. Finding feeds worth reading, harder. The easiest and most efficient way to find feeds is to located the rss button or feed subscription links on a website that you already visit. It is easier to have your websites come to you via a reader than to visit numerous websites each day checking for new information. If you are searching for feeds on a given topic and don't know where to go, I would recommend searching for feeds within google reader. It is an easy way to find the most popular feeds on a subject. As a secnodary source, I would recommend Bloglines. Their enhanced search feature allows you to search for feeds or posts. Technorati is not a qualiative directory. A search here reminds you how much crap the world is blogging. However, it is usual for searching for specific bits of news or searching a specific blog. I started using Google Reader about six months ago and it is useful for keeping up on library news. I recommend being selective about what you read. More is not better. These tools can save time but oversubscribing is counterproductive.

RSS part 2

I find the new items feeds and upcoming program feeds useful. This is great and easy via rss. I don't understand some of the rss feeds included in the catalog. I would limit these to ones that would be useful to someone while searching the catalog, such as the NY Times bestseller list, book review, movie feeds etc. I also would include the subscription info for the feeds in the catalog as well. I really have no idea how many of our patrons actually utilize rss feeds. Those that do will find this a good service. Implementation of a general news rss might be good.