For those with internet access, Web 2.0 technologies are now a ubiquitous part of modern life. In fact, Facebook—the digital giant of 2.0 technologies—now boasts a staggering 350,000,000 users (facebook, 2009) with no signs of slowing down. New and different Web 2.0 applications proliferate, it seems, on an hourly basis (web applications index, 2009). Technology is a catalyst for rapid change in the information profession. But how does the librarian/information professional embrace this new frontier? Well, to begin, there are more intelligent ways to go about most things, and this is no different.
Carol Tenopir, an editor at Library Journal, offers some useful advice for library professionals:
“Focus not on the cachet of new technology but to improve service for staff and patrons” (Tenopir, 2009). Tenopir highlights an excellent point in that the information professional must embrace Web 2.0 not simply to go through the motions or appease patrons; rather, information professionals should seize on Web 2.0’s as an opportunity to assist patrons and engage them in the services and expertise your respective institution has to offer.
Sources:
Tenopir, Carol. (2007). Living the Virtual Library. Library Journal. 132, 24. Retrieved from
http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.ezproxy.library.wisc.edu/hww/jumpstart.jhtml? recid=0bc05f7a67b1790e1186e01681fd1ff735f819ddf39992873a65bdafaeb2ad086d3762577bd035f6& fmt=H
