Sunday, November 25, 2007

Library 2.0

The ideas presented in the various links dealing with Library 2.0 is very exciting. What a great way to look at information--both in books and virtual--not as a commodity to be sold and held but as part of a community available for everyone at any time! We've been moving toward a more sharing society in libraryland with OCLC cataloging and virtual books. Not having to reinvent the wheel every time we have a new book to catalog, we can copy catalog and have our materials out on the shelves much more quickly. With the advent of computers, even a small rural library can have access to the world. Wikis have given people an opportunity to add to an entry additional materials that help extend information and knowledge. The world of Library 2.0 is using these technologies to share information 24/7 outside the walls of the library. Since the public is comfortable with Amazon, Ebay and other sights that are "user friendly" and available anytime and anywhere there's a computer internet connection, the library needs to offer the same kind of service to keep up with technology and the changing lifestyles of our customers. Otherwise we'll be become a dinosaur that no one will use. I agree with the various authors that said this change will happen one library or library system at a time--the success of a few pioneers will lead the way for the reluctant to move forward. Change is difficult but necessary. Change is good!

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