Monday, December 22, 2008

Web 2.0 for Libraries

I can certainly see the many positive aspects of utilizing web 2.0 concepts in and for the library. I am particularly insterested in using blogs and IM within the library structure to let staff know what is going on and to communicate quickly without disturbing patrons. Our library must work closely with our IT department to explain why these features would be helpful.

We find that by discussing these matters with the City's IT department, we are able to increase understanding to to get the IT department to buy into our service needs. Our IT department is very supportive of the library and works very hard to help us. We just have to remember that the IT department must be concerned with security and City of Harker Heights rules and regulations. For example, we have to own our own wiki. We cannot use one of the free wikis because of the advertisements. In the article that I mention below, I was impressed with the concept of value added blogging. We want to have a blog, but again our City will have to purchase some software to do it. On the other hand I have found that with continued explanation of our needs, the IT department is more and more willing to allow us to use some of the already excellent free applications.

I read "Tools for 'Web 2.0 and Libraries: Best Practices for Social Software' Revisited." This is chapter 2 of the Sept/Oct. issue of Library Technology Reports. I found the discussion quite helpful. I have reflected some of my thoughts in the above statements.

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