Web 2.0

I agree with Michael Stephens’ point that “Librarian 2.0 controls technolust.” The latest and greatest technology trends change nearly every day, and it’s difficult to keep on top of it. However, I don’t think you need to adopt every gadget that comes along. Does having an rss feed, or a blog, or a wiki, etc., on your library’s website make sense if over 50% of your patrons don’t know how to use a mouse? To me, Web 2.0 is all about connecting to users, at whatever level they’re at. After working at two public libraries, I’ve seen how deep the digital divide is and concluded that sometimes we can provide better service without having to spend lots of money on new technology.

Still, the value of learning some of the more popular Web 2.0 tools is great; in a few years, the low end of the range might be something like “yeah, they’re still using Facebook - can you believe that?” And libraries will be right there helping those less technologically savvy patrons.