Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and its Implications for Libraries

3rd Reading Assignment

Maness, Jack M. “Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and its Implications for Libraries” Webology
vol. 3, no. 2. 15 July 2009. http:www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html.

Abstract:

The article introduces “Library 2.0” by providing a clarified definition and theory about the term, as well as discussing who coined it, how it evolved and its impact on the current and future practice of Librarianship. These data were also provided in order to eliminate the ambiguity about the term which was brought by various discussions that are often broad and extensive. Furthermore, in order to support the theory, different web technologies and applications such as synchronous messaging, blogs, wiki’s, streaming media, social networks, RSS feeds, and mashups are presented.

3 Things that I learned:

1.Because of this article, I have acquired a more in depth knowledge on Library 2.0.

2.Prior to reading this article I never knew that there is a social networking site called “LibraryThing”.

3.I learned new web technologies and applications such as Mashups and Tagging.

Reflections:

It was just fascinating to experience how the World Wide Web has evolved over the years, and how it continues to affect the different fields of study. In the case of Librarianship, we started automation by using the simple OPAC with limited features and capabilities. Now, we already have some OPAC using some web 2.0 technologies and applications. Change is never constant; it will come and should always be welcomed.