As I read the article from Wikipedia about Library 2.0, one of the first comments that jumped out at me was that Library 2.0 involves "an increased flow of information from the user back to the library." Right now, the information flows out, but only comes back to us through email or phone calls. Allowing library users to customize the way that information comes to them and to participate in decisions about library services is at the heart of Library 2.0. Another item that struck me was that implementing these items is not a one-time "fix"; change is constant and systems have to be monitored to see if they are meeting the current needs of users. The list of references at the end helped clarify some of the points of the article. I also noticed that Wikipedia suggests other wikis for more on this conversation, provides a link to del.icio.us for tagging the article and links to a network on Ning for Library 2.0.
The second article read, "To a Temporary Place in Time" , by Dr. Wendy Schutlz, hypothesized about what Library 3.0 or 4.0 might be like. I loved the definition of libraries: "Libraries are not just collections of documents and books, they are conversations, they are convocations of people, ideas, and artifacts in dynamic exchange. Libraries are not merely in communities, they are communities...." She correctly advises us to put people and meanings at the center of our concerns. This aspect has been a part of libraries since before 2.0; it just looks different in an online environment.
I loved her vision that in 3.0 people will need a "tour guide" to guide them through the maze of information; who better than a librarian? Internet users already turn to virtual doctors and financial advisors; it is not a stretch to see them reaching out to virtual librarians. (Gotta work on my avatar's wardrobe.....) But Library 4.0 as a "knowledge spa", "a retreat from technohustle" is really a return to the things we value today in a library. It brings up the point that in our efforts to reach the wired generation, we cannot forget the unwired members. Nor should we forget the value of the physical space as a welcoming, stimulating place to browse or research, to be part of a community.
To me, Library 2.0 is enlarges the circle of people that the library serves and connects to. By providing blogs and wikis, access to podcasts and RSS feeds, by letting users leave comments and have access to other users' opinions, a library can grow into a dynamic place, online and in real space. It is a another way to connect with patrons. I see it as valuable, but also realize that we have many non-techno-savvy users who continue to need the personal touch and encouragement.
School libraries of the future will have to work closely with school boards and principals to be sure that equipment and connection speed and teacher training are funded. In our district, most of the technologies in this project are blocked by our filter. In order to effectively use the sites, they would need to be unblocked. I think that school libraries will continue to provide physical books in the future, but the social computing aspect will increase the students' connection to the world. Another issue is the young age of students, their privacy and the posting of their ideas online. Schools will need to work hand-in-hand with parents to develop policies that protect students.
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