Thing 12 - Library 2.0

I read a couple of the references that discussed Library 2.0. I've heard that term a a number of times, but never really knew who or how it was different from Web 2.0. The few references I read for this assignment all basically said the same thing, so now I feel like I know what the difference is.

Library 2.0 is about making your library's space (both physical and virtual) more attractive & relevant to your users. It doesn't have to involve technology, and that was where I was getting confused. I was thinking that Library 2.0 was just applying Web 2.0 principles to libraries. But its actually much more than that. It is also includes making your physical building more attractive, changing policies, holding events that draw people into your facility, etc.

One of the items I read talked about how they don't like the term Library 2.0 and I would agree with that. I think the term puts too much emphasis on the technology aspect.

But the idea of trying to reach all of your users, even your non-users, is a great one. The idea of continuously evaluating your services is great. The idea of constantly asking your users for feedback is great too. None of these ideas are new, but there is definitely a higher emphasis on these thoughts in Library 2.0.

In the past I was turned off by the term Library 2.0 because I thought it was only focusing on technology and that that was too narrow of a focus. Now I'm more comfortable with the term and so it doesn't annoy me like it used to.

In terms of my library, I think we are already doing a lot of Library 2.0 stuff and don't even know it. We recently moved into a new building and we used user input to design the space. All of our users love the building. We also regularly offer speakers and programming, including exhibits, in the building. We posted our draft strategic plan online and asked for user feedback. And we are getting ready to create an online suggestion board. All of these things fit into the Library 2.0 thinking.