Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries

In this paper, the author, Maness provides an overview of the term ‘Library 2.0’. He defines it as “the application of interactive, collaborative, and multi-media web-based technologies to web-based library services and collections”. He prefaces his definition with a brief history of Web 2.0 and acknowledges that there is some controversy over the term ‘Library 2.0’ within the library science community. Maness claims that restricting the definition to cover only those aspects of library services and collections that are ‘web-based’ helps to avoid confusion and facilitates further research and professional discussion.

The author lists four key elements of Library 2.0 theory. The first is that it is “user-centered” with the users helping librarians and each other to create dynamic content and services through the new online tools of blogs and wikis. Tagging is even allowing users to add their own metadata or subject headings to resources.

The second element is that Library 2.0 “provides a multi-media experience” including video and audio content. Flash programming built into streaming media applications already provides interactive quizzes which enable the user to ‘dialogue’ with online tutorials but Maness foresees the time when users will be able to interact with one another and with the librarians as if in a classroom or lab.

The third element is a “socially rich” network with both synchronous or instant messaging (IM) and asynchronous (such as wikis) communication between users and between users and librarians. Libraries are using the real-time IM for chat reference services where user and librarian can co-browse, file-share, screen-capture, data share and mine previous transcripts. Maness suggests that the technology is becoming more intuitive and will be able to ‘observe’ the user surfing through the libraries online resources and offer assistance using audio and video messaging in a similar manner to a physical reference librarian observing and offering to assist a patron wandering through the book stacks.

The fourth element is “communally innovative” providing users, individually and corporately, with services that change to meet their needs as they seek, find and use information. RSS feeds, for example, are enabling distillations of Web content according to specific requirements. For this to continue, library web-based applications and technologies must become and remain compatible with those of the user community. Maness emphasizes the need for libraries to move beyond a catalogue restricted to certain formats to including streamlined access to digital objects stored in repositories and asset management technologies.

In summary Maness claims that Library 2.0 is a “mashup”or hybridization of Web 2.0 services where users and librarians together facilitate information transfer and information literacy through personal interfaces designed by users.

Reference:
Maness, J. (2006). "Library 2.0 Theory: Web 2.0 and Its Implications for Libraries". Webology, 3 (2), Article 25. Available at http://www.webology.ir/2006/v3n2/a25.html