Library 2.0: A new philosophy, or something we have always strived for?

Having done a bit of reading on Library 2.0, I wonder whether its underlying ideas haven’t always been part of the library philosophy, and it is only now that major discussions are taking place about the value and future of libraries, that we are really considering what we do and how we do it. Library 2.0 sprouted from Web 2.0, moving towards a more participatory web, using the social tools that are part of this movement, to create new experiences. Libraries have always been about communities, trying to meet needs and expectations, bringing people together, so what does 2.0 really mean to us? The Wikipedia article on Library 2.0 states that “…ultimately the Library 2.0 model for service will replace traditional, one-directional service offerings that have characterized libraries for centuries”. There is “…an increased flow of information from the user back to the library”. We have always tried to serve our communities better, but now Web 2.0 technologies and the Internet generally, have placed more of the control in our clients’ hands in getting the information and services they need. Information provision is not just in the hands of a few anymore. We have to consider how we are going to keep clients’ coming to us, and by investigating the tools they use to communicate with each other, the possibilities that this offers, we may be on our way.

It has been quite hard to write posts about Web 2.0 and Library 2.0, because what they mean and whether what they propose is valuable, is different in each discussion of them. What I think Library 2.0 is forcing us to look at, is not necessarily the services we provide and the communities we serve, but more HOW we do it. And this is the radical part.

Did that make any sense? I can’t wait for wikis!