In my review of this article by Watson and Harper on the use of blogs and wikis as a communication tool in libraries, I will discuss how the authors draw on their own research and experiences as professional librarians, to offer advice as to how best overcome the pitfalls of Library 2.0. In my view, many of the points made by the authors, while treated individually, actually overlap and are integrally related to one another.
Watson and Harper begin their article with a brief explanation of the difference between blogs and wikis. While both can be edited online by anyone, blogs are known as online journals and are usually arranged by the date of entries. They can only be added to by registered contributors. Wikis are an online collaboration and not necessarily arranged by their dates. However, both are seen as key tools in the development of Library 2.0.
An important point made by the authors is that while we may be impressed by the changes that have taken us from the static world of Web 1.0 to the dynamic, interactive world of Web 2.0, we must not overlook one important fact. That is, if there is to be a successful world of Library 2.0, it must be lead by Librarian 2.0. Stephens confirms this point in saying that a library should be human, social and emotionally engaged for the finding information and entertainment. Librarian 2.0 will be the strategy guide, supporting users in the Library 2.0 world (Stephens, 2006, ¶1).
The first point dealt with by Watson and Harper is that the technology, what ever chosen, must be appropriate to the vision of the library. The library purpose must be clearly stated, with transparent management and policy statements. Rules on content should be clearly stated and where possible, a management team rather than an individual should be used. Reinforced by Stephens is that the most important tip, in my opinion, is educating all staff on the appropriate policy and management skills for whatever program is envisioned (Stephens, 2008, p. 4).
I feel that it is this management of policy and adhering to library vision is the overriding issue for all the points the authors make in their article. As they discuss the control of ‘technolust’ they assert that it also should be driven by library model rather than buying into new technology just because it is trendy. As Stephens reminds us, no new technology can save your library. He suggest that rather than grabbing every new gadget going, see what will work in your library and train staff accordingly. For example, try an iPod in your AV section to download rental movies (Stephens, 2008, p. 3).
For me, the next three points really roll into one: in whatever technology you are applying, make sure it reflects your library and patrons, keep it current and encourage feedback. An excellent example of this is the Frankston Library blog. A light hearted approach is used is each blog and feedback is encouraged. Events and programs are announced in the library links and RSS feeds and podcasts are also offered (The Frankston Library Service blog, 2008). To me, this truly reflects the direction of that library and how are servicing their clientele with Library 2.0 effectively.
To conclude this review, I have described the dominating points Watson and Harper have made in that, regardless of how you choose to communication with library clients, you must use the technology in a way that reflects the ethos of your library and its clientele. I have discussed their tips and how they interact with each other to a logical conclusion: whether your library patron is physically present or online, Library 2.0 must be used to fully facilitate communication and social interaction between library patrons.
Bibliography
Frankston Library Service blog, (2008). Blogalogue - what's wicked in Libraryland. Retrieved September 1, 2008 from: http://flsblog.blogspot.com/
Stephens, M. (2006). Into a new world of librarianship. OCLC Nextspace 2, 2006. Retrieved August 30, 2008, from OCLC Website: http://www.oclc.org/nextspace/002/3.htm
Stephens, M. (2008). Taming technolust: ten steps for planning in a 2.0 world. Retrieved September 1, 2008 from RUSQ website: http://www.rusq.org/2008/08/18/taming-technolust/
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