Learning More about Web 2.0 and Wikis

Continuing with my work on The 23 Things, I have been learning more about the different definitions librarians hold about Library 2.0. I also learned more about Wikis and completed the task of performing one edit on InfoPeople's Our 23 Web 2.0 Things wiki.

I also found a good resource for looking at new Web technology in use in other libraries. Innovative Internet Applications lists a variety of purposes or categories of service, in which new applications are being implemented to serve library users in appealing ways.

Number 15.
I read the Wikipedia article on Web 2.0 and the article called Library 2.0 and "Library 2.0" [PDF file] by Walt Crawford. I was impressed with the amount of research done by Mr. Crawford on this topic, and I felt somewhat overwhelmed with all the many viewpoints and definitions of Web 2.0, Library 2.0, and "Library 2.0" in quotes, presented as having distinct connotations. I do agree with Crawford that what he calls "the bandwagon Library 2.0" is a bit of hype and overemphasizes the many web utilities that facilitate interactivity and social exchange.

I think of Library 2.0 as simply applying some of the more useful Web 2.0 utilities that work well with our other Library platforms. Whenever the patron can interact at a greater level with our OPAC and databases, and provide feedback such as book & media purchase suggestions, write reviews, and communicate with staff or post comments on a community blog, it is worthy of our attention. Program modules that increase the public's sense of participation, while blending as seamlessly as possible with our technology platform, increase the library's usefulness and relevance to library users. In summary, I think many of the Web 2.0 applications are fun as well as effective tools; others are marginally useful. Where we can apply them to make the experience of using the library more efficient and pleasant, we should do so.

Number 16.
The Wiki I am most familiar with of course is Wikipedia. I often turn to the Wikipedia for ready reference, noting whether the references and sources are verified or still awaiting confirmation. This type of editing software is an excellent example of a Web 2.0 utility that has become very popular. It allows users to create and edit content in a Web page and allows for collaboration on a project by unlimited numbers of people -- or by selected membership. I can envision wikis being especially useful in building community resources, reference and local history information.

In my exploration of wikis I discovered that there is a competitor to Wikipedia being built, called Citizendium. I'm not immediately impressed with the name; but the purpose and extra attention to authenticity and validation of entries is commendable.

Number 17.
I visited the InfoPeople's wiki and tried my hand at editing a segment under the section "Moving Libraries Forward." Scroll down to the bottom of the page and you can see my entry entitled Library Services to Teens -- Best Practices.