By Kathryn Munson

Defining Library 2.0“The principles of Library 2.0 seek to put users in touch with information and entertainment wherever they may be, breaking down the barriers of space, time and outdated policy. It is a user-centered paradigm focusing on knowledge, experience, collaboration, the creation of new content and encouraging the heart.”

Michael Stephens

How did Library 2.0 come about?

Michael Casey coined the term Library 2.0 on his blog Library Crunch in September 2005

Basics of Library 2.0 Constant and Purposeful Change

Be able to quickly respond to changing needs

Not change for the sake of change User Participation = User Empowerment Reaching Current and Potential Users

Continuing to provide services to the library’s base while reaching patrons who don’t typically use the library

Serving the “Long Tail”

Library 2.0 goals for the academic library

Evaluate all services on a regular basis.Implement purposeful change driven by

feedback from the university community.Practice constant learning of professional

best practices and new technologies.Recognize the social value of the library

as a compliment to its academic purposes.

Access Services and Library 2.0In each of the stated goals for

Academic Library 2.0:1) Evaluating Services2) Implementing change3) Practicing constant learning4) Blending social and academic functions

Access Services staff will play an essential part!

Evaluating ServicesNecessary for instituting purposeful change.Access Services staff uniquely positioned to

solicit feedback from users on: Quality of collection- Circulation, ILLMedia selections- Media LabWeb site and electronic resources usability-

Computer LabIntegrated Learning Opportunities- ReservesGeneral feedback- All staff

Staff feedback is also essential to the evaluation process!

Tools for evaluating services

Implementing ChangeChange must be based on evaluation.The processes of change must be constant.Experimentation involves trial and error.Change must be considered by vertical

teams.1) Investigative2) Planning 3) Review

Practicing Constant LearningKeep up with professional literature.Attend professional conferences.Encourage dialog between staff and patrons.

Provide means for staff to collaborate and share knowledge and experiences.

Experience Web 2.0 for yourself!

Access services innovations

ILL Reform

Blending social and academic functions

Create a research tips wiki or discussion group for different academic departments.

Encourage library staff to blog and create RSS feeds.

Reach out to users on sites they already visit like YouTube, Flickr, or Facebook.

Allow patrons to provide reviews or ratings within the OPAC or in course specific forums.

Make the most of the library’s collaborative physical spaces and encourage patron interactions.

Academic Library 2.0 Model

A few considerationsLibrary 2.0 entails radical trust. We can’t loose sight of DRM (digital

rights management) and copyright restrictions.

It’s not all about the technology, it’s all about the user.

Many library users may still need our help with “the basics”.

So Remember…The path to Library 2.0 can be achieved

by1) Constantly evaluating services2) Implementing purposeful change3) Practicing constant learning4) Blending social and academic functions

Access Services plays a key role in implementing these four functions and staff must be empowered to take part in the Library 2.0 model and be involved in the decision-making process.

And just when you were getting comfortable

You say you’ve been hearing chatter about Library 3.0 and Library4.0!

Don’t worry about the terminology.If your prepared for constant change,

you can handle anything. That’s whatthe Library 2.0 model is all about.

Thank you!If you enjoyed this presentation and would like to see it again or pass it on to a colleague, link to my site at http://www2.selu.edu/Academics/Faculty/kmunson/