#15.Read a few perspectives on Web2.0 , Library 2.0 & the future libraries

What is Web 2.0? -From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Web 2.0 is a phrase coined by O'Reilly Media in 2003(and later popularized by the first Web 2.0 conference in 2004) in reference to a perceived second generation of web-based communities and hosted services — such as social-networking sites, wikis and folksonomies — which facilitate collaboration and sharing between users. O'Reilly Media titled a series of conferences around the phrase, and it has since become widely adopted. Although the term suggests a new version of the World Wide Web, it does not refer to an update to Web technical specifications, but to changes in the ways software developers and end-users use the web as a platform. According to Tim O'Reilly, "Web 2.0 is the business revolution in the computer industry caused by the move to the internet as platform, and an attempt to understand the rules for success on that new platform." Some technology experts, notably Tim Berners-Lee, have questioned whether one can use the term in a meaningful way, since many of the technology components of "Web 2.0" have existed since the early days of the Web.
Web - operating platform to which programmers write reusable , constantly updated software components that are embedded or loosely coupled with other Web applications. The web moves from simply being sites and search engines to a shared network place that drives work , research , education ,entertainment ,social activities.

What is Library 2.0-From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Library 2.0 is a loosely defined model for a modernized form of library service that reflects a transition within the library world in the way that services are delivered to users. The concept of Library 2.0 borrows from that of Business 2.0 and Web 2.0 and follows some of the same underlying philosophies. This includes online services such as the use of OPAC systems and an increased flow of information from the user back to the library.
With Library 2.0 library services are constantly updated and reevaluated to best serve library users. Library 2.0 also attempts to harness the library user in the design and implementation of library services by encouraging feedback and participation. Proponents of this concept expect that ultimately the Library 2.0 model for service will replace traditional, one-directional service offerings that have characterized libraries for centuries.

The term "Library 2.0" was coined by Michael Casey on his blog LibraryCrunch as a direct spin-off of the terms Business 2.0 and Web 2.0. Casey suggested that libraries, especially public libraries, are at a crossroads where many of the elements of Web 2.0 have applicable value within the library community, both in technology-driven services and in non-technology based services. In particular, he described the need for libraries to adopt a strategy for constant change while promoting a participatory role for library users.
Library 2.0 made its conference debut at Internet Librarian 2005 in October, 2005, when Michael Stephens of Saint Joseph County Public Library addressed the idea in relation to the typical library website.
With Library 2.0, library services are frequently evaluated and updated to meet the changing needs of library users. Library 2.0 also calls for libraries to encourage user participation and feedback in the development and maintaining of library services. The active and empowered library user is a significant component of Library 2.0. With information and ideas flowing in both directions – from the library to the user and from the user to the library – library services have the ability to evolve and improve on a constant and rapid basis. The user is participant, co-creator, builder and consultant – whether the product is virtual or physical.

What is OCLC?

OCLC -Online Computer Library Center a non profit (founded in 1967) membership Computer library services and research organization dedicated to the public purposes of furtherring access to the world's information and reducing information costs.More than 57000 libraries in 112 countries and territories around the world use OCLC services to locate , acquire, catalog , lend preserve library materials.

Future libraries

Nowdays libraries don't have the monopoly power over information that they had in the days before Internet.
Patrons will expect to have access to everything in the easiest way possible...
It is a well -known fact that patrons are more interested in digital collections than printed forms.
I work circ desk every day and I can see that the most requestable items are DVDs , CDs , Audio books.
The way that technology evolves will lead to a library with digital collections
where printed forms will be seen as a rarity.
People read less printed forms that they used to and take advantage of digital collections,Internet , because is an easier way to have access to the information and they don't have to spend to much time on that.For exemple
a book(printed form) that you could either read in 5 days if you have enough time for reading or you can listen the same book on an audio format driving home or while cleaning your house in less than 2 hours.
One thing is sure , thechnology evolves every day...and the evolution of technologies can be seen in the libraries... whose aim was and will be to store information wich is more and more abundant and without it our world can not be imagined.