Thing #15

Wikipedia describes Library 2.0 as library services that are frequently evaluated and updated to meet the changing needs of library users. It goes on to state that the library user is a significant component of Library 2.0. The user is a participant, co-creator, builder and consultant – whether the product is virtual or physical. I think this idea is extremely important in the 2.0 world. Students must be in charge of their learning. As librarians, we must teach students how to effectively search through information and thinking critically about the information that they find.

I have never heard the term Library 2.0, but it makes sense when you think about the changes that are occuring within the library system. Rick Anderson, author of the article "Away from the Icebergs" states that it can be disastrous when a profession fails to acknowledge and adapt to radical, fundamental change in the marketplace it serves. I completely agree with his viewpoint. If libraries are to continue to be central to student learning, then they must adapt to these changes. Students are engrossed with technology and spend a majority of their day using technology (in some way or another). If we are to reach them, then we must make the information relevant to their life.