Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries

http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html


Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries
Jack M. Maness. e-mail: jack.maness@colorado.edu. CO, USA: 2006.


Abstract (Summary)

This article posits a definition and theory for “Library 2.0”. It suggests that recent thinking describing the changing Web as “Web 2.0” will have substantial implications for libraries, and recognizes that while these implications keep very close to the history and mission of libraries, they still necessitate a new paradigm for librarianship. The paper applies the theory and definition to the practice of librarianship, specifically addressing how Web 2.0 technologies such as synchronous messaging and streaming media, blogs, wikis, social networks, tagging, RSS feeds, and mashups might intimate changes in how libraries provide access to their collections and user support for that access.

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THREE Things I learned from my Reading Assignment (RA)

1. During Web 1.0 content is controlled on the internet innovation of Web 2.0 change this concept it introduced involvement on becoming more interactive and given fully accessibility to its end user. End users became more important where it provides now most of the material on the internet. (e.g. Social Networks: Facebook, Friendster, Twitter, Multiply, YouTube etc. ; Blogs & Wikis: Wikipedia stc.)

2. Web 2.0 changes the concept & the expectation on library services it introduces democracy where end users become more involved as participants. It gradually shifts the library services on focusing more on facilitation of information transfer and information literacy rather than providing controlled access to it.

3. Through Web 2.0 education anytime, anywhere, at any level is possible its application revolutionizes interactive web-based services, its influence on education is not only significant for opening up many educational opportunities for the students as learners and teachers as educators but as well as for the communities globally.

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APPLICATION/IMPLICATION


Application of Web 2.0 in the Library system will revolutionize Library profession where Librarians becoming facilitators. This implies that library services will gradually change, focusing more on the facilitation of information transfer and information literary rather than providing controlled access to it. Paradigm shift of Libraries adapting Web 2.0 is essential to be current and stable building new trends in education offering opportunities to teach and learn in most innovative ways, using interactive methods allowing users globally interact with one another.