Library 2.0

With Web 2.0, the Web 1s a shared virtual space rather than a network of websites and search engines. It’s a platform on which programmers write constantly updated software that is loosely connected with other Web applications. Web 2.0 sites offer novel as well as remixed content. They embody simplicity, interactivity and self-service. Users are always online, constantly connected to one another and to the Web. How will libraries thrive in the Web 2.0 world, where customers expect easy access to virtually everything? They need to focus on providing everything and on eliminating barriers like clumsy search interfaces that exist between customers and their information needs. Librarians must educate their customers when necessary, but as Rick Anderson says, if a library’s services can’t be used without training, there’s something wrong with the services. Libraries need to find new ways to bring their services to customers. This means integrating library services into their customers’ daily life patterns.