This was a very informative article. For me personally, the definitions
provided for Web 2.0, Library 2.0 and RSS were helpful. I agree with the author’s
perspective on the importance of assimilating these technologies into library
services. Because it is such an integral part of our everyday life, libraries must
embrace technology. The challenge for libraries and librarians is to keep up
with the changes in technology, keep abreast of the technologies the public is
using and to incorporate these technologies into library services in a way that
keeps them current. While many in our society question the future of libraries,
this author states, and I agree, that “libraries are especially
important now when the whole idea of education is stressing more and more
independent learning and acting. All citizens must be able to find and use
information. It is the key raw material, but it is a zero resource, if there
are no access points to it and if documents are in chaotic order.” I find it
amazing when educated, intelligent people tell me that, soon, we will no longer
need libraries. Locally, several communities have voted down renovations to their
town libraries, in spite of receiving state grants to assist them with the
finances. Intelligently utilizing the various Web 2.0 tools is a crucial aspect
of proving that libraries are both relevant and necessary.
The references provided in this article to the Ann Arbor District
Library (blog), St. Joseph Public Library (wiki) and the websites for free
images were an added bonus!
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