FAQ: What defines a library presence on the Internet?

The Shifted Librarian Retrieved May 20, 2012 Some rights reserved

By Bryan

In an age when information seekers are growing to expect remote access to a library’s holdings and services, we see the advent of what has been dubbed “Library 2.0.” The language used is derived from the concept “Web 2.0”, and attempts to bridge the changing landscape of web technologies to the world of libraries. The characteristics of “Library 2.0” include the utilization of evolving internet and social media tools to reach users. Libraries should make good use of any and all available resources to steer users toward their content and services. Facebook can be utilized to establish a web presence, possibly capturing users as they engage in large scale internet searches. The page can be used to communicate essential library information, and act as a reminder to information seekers that there are resources that are more refined, easier to use, and with full support at the library. Blogs can be used to create a dialogue between users and staff, offering a chance for them to comment and seek current information. This conversation is a useful tool in gathering feedback and data to improve service and deduce changing user needs. Bookmarking is an emerging way for libraries to grab and tag resources that may escape conventional cataloging practices (LC subject heading, MeSH headings, LC and Dewey classification schemes). The appropriate information can then be gathered and offered to groups of relevant users (students, community groups, doctors, etc.).

The following are resources to further explore the concept of “Library 2.0” and the role social media might play in the future of libraries.
---- (March 5, 2012). Library 2.0. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_2.0

---- (2012). Library 2.0: The future of libraries in a digital age. Retrieved from http://www.library20.com/
(Note: this site is hosting its 2nd virtual conference in October 2012.)

Fitcher, D. (2003). Why and How to Use Blogs to Promote Your Library's Services. Marketing Library Services 17(6). Retrieved from http://www.infotoday.com/mls/nov03/fichter.shtml

Maness, J. (2006). Library 2.0 theory: Web 2.0 and its implications for libraries. Webology 3(2). Retrieved from: http://www.webology.org/2006/v3n2/a25.html