Thing #15 Thoughts on Library 2.0 & Web 2.0

I agree with opinions expressed in these articles that Library 2.0 is a new mindset and lifestyle centered in today’s digital community. Learning should be viewed as a shared network in which the Library plays a pivotal role. The change is already here and there is no turning back: “The Web moves from simply being sites and search engines to a shared network space that drives work, research, education, entertainment and social activities—essentially everything people do. You and your mobile and nonmobile devices—PDA, MP3, laptop, cell phone, camera, PC, TV, etc.—are always online, connected to one another and to the Web.” (OCLC Next Space Newsletter – Web 2.0: Where will the next generation of the web it take libraries?) So much is Web 2.0 driven that today’s libraries must keep up and I am glad to see that Library 2.0 is accomplishing just that.

I found Rick Anderson’s “Away from the Icebergs” article quite interesting, particularly the barriers of the ‘just in case’ collection and reliance on user education. However, I’m not so sure I agree with his statement that “it may no longer make sense to ‘collect’ in the traditional sense at all.” Even though he saw a drop in circulation rates at his library, it doesn’t mean this is the case everywhere else. Just the opposite from what I see…the public library location that I work in is always extremely busy and circulation rates have increased over the past years. And there continues to be those patrons who still prefer books and printed materials verses electronic formats. Also, many of the users in my location still do not have their own personal computers; they come to the library to use the technology. So now more than ever, must the Library provide that shared learning network and digital community fueled by Web 2.0/Library 2.0.

Most importantly since many libraries are now busier than ever, it is paramount that we offer a user-friendly environment. Since we have less staff, there is less time to train users on such things as self-checkout, self printing terminals, online catalog interfaces, etc. Anderson states that “if our services can’t be used without training, then it’s the services that need to be fixed—not our patrons.” I see this problem over and over when equipment and interfaces are purchased based on cost and not quality. Some of the self-service stations and terminals that my location currently uses are impossible for the public to figure out themselves; they require staff training and help on a continuous basis. Why should it be easier to use self-checkout at the grocery store than in a library?