Taking that into account , I have been gathering information that has been useful in keeping our services relevant for a new generation of users.What I did was to take a look at other universities that I assume are having the same problem as wellas refer to some features I read in the ACRL Journal. I concluded that taking a long tail approach to services is the most successful—that is taking services to the user through physical and virtual presence—catering to niche markets. This type of presence appeals to a much larger more and diverse audience.
I believe we will harness a collective intelligence with our patrons using Web 2.0 tools. Web 2.0 are participatory simple technologies that allow for collaborative and social web application. Web 2.0 tools have an open source code so that those with the know how can use their skills to improve and extend the capabilities. Web 2.0 technology is geared toward Gathering information for individuals and collecting it for them to absorb at their leisure.
Some of these tools I am talking about include:IM’s /Instant messaging/-real-timeconversationRssfeeds can inform library users about new library activitiesMany libraries now use face book to indulge individuals who may never enter the physical library. Georgia State University has created a profile on Face Book which includes subject blogs for users to collaborate on various subjects.Meebo is an open source, web-based instant messaging (IM) service that allows you to use multiple IM providers such as Yahoo! Messenger, AIM, Hotmail, Google Talk, ICQ, and Jabber simultaneously. It is free, and there is no software to download and install. George Washington University Uses a meebo which allows patrons remote access to a librarian while they conduct research. This benefits the Library because it records the transaction and keeps librarians up-to-date with discussion trends.Blogs are now being used in libraries for niche groups to collaborate and conversate as well to enable the library knowledge of its usersWikis are being used for departments and niche groups to share and collaborate.Delicious is an applet that allows researchers to share relevant search materials and websites.Podcasts' are being used by libraries to offer simple task instructionMassups are where you may find several of these tools being used cooperatively
We need this technology to reach out for patrons that we otherwise will never contact. We need these tools to remain relevant to information literacy. In order for us to become an integral part of the 20th century learning community we must adapt to the social nature of our students, particularly our undergraduate students who may fit their studies around unsocial hours. We must Emphasize the librarian’s role as “ guide to information” rather than the traditional role of an information keeper.We will simply download them ; Read instructions and most have blog spots so individuals inform one another about the features.Most web 2.0 tools are free, and operate across all platforms. ---------or there could be some premium costs for upgrades.
Web 2.0 technologies allow libraries the opportunity for more outreach and creativity.Web 2.0 services are becoming part of the library patrons primary activities online when accessing information and we need to stay vital to our patrons by using these same services. The implementation of these services have huge implications for how we now and in the future will stay relevant to our communities and how we will face the next generation of new information technology.
Inevitably we will arrive at a model for a modernized form of library service that reflects a transition in the way library services are delivered to users. The focus will be on user-centered change and participation in the creation of content and community. The concept of Library 2.0 borrows from that of Business 2.0 and Web 2.0 and follows some of the same underlying philosophies. This includes online services like the use of OPAC systems and an increased flow of information from the user back to the library.With Library 2.0, library services are constantly updated and reevaluated to best serve library users. Library 2.0 also attempts to harness the library user in the design and implementation of library services by encouraging feedback and participation. Proponents of this concept, sometimes referred to as Radical Trust expect that the Library 2.0 model for service will ultimately replace traditional, one-directional service offerings that have characterized libraries for centuries.