Saturday, September 8, 2012

Web 2.0 Technologies


RGianni LIS 6303
Module 2: Blogging about Web 2.0 and/or Emerging Technologies
A.)   There are many uses for libraries to use Web 2.0 technologies. The main use of Web 2.0 tools is to connect. Libraries rely on connecting and keeping patrons informed by using these FREE tech tools and adding new patrons and or keeping existing patrons. Some of the different tools being used in libraries are including a Facebook link on their library website; Library Blogs, Twitter, Flickr.
These tools such as Facebook, Library Blogs, Twitter and Flickr have similar functions, they create a virtual library for patrons. Many of these social networking/Web 2.0 tools are frequently used by patrons in different applications, eg., logging into one’s facebook regularly.
Having library’s participate in today’s online presence is important. The Web 2.0 tools differ from the Web 1.0 or what is basically referred to as “the world wide web, or the web.”  The main difference is that Web 2.0 all for users to interact and participate with others via writing/posting, collaborating on projects such as wikkis.
Libraries are also adding RSS icons to their library’s websites. Those interested in subscribing to a particular library need to click on the site and add it to their reader (I just learned how to do this). J I think the RSS feeds a great way to save time and keep up on what’s going be it with local activities in one’s library or in the world.
The only thing that seems to be a concern about the use of Web 2.0 technologies in libraries may the issue of privacy. Some libraries have a staff who are in charge posts as not to let anything inappropriate be posted on their website. In the USA, we are fortunate to have freedom of speech. In some countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia, Web 2.0 and social networking tools are controlled by their governments.
    B.)     The University of South Florida’s (USF)library participates in being a friend by liking them on Facebook. One thing I like about Facebook is that one is able to “like” an organization and see what is going on without any pressure to post something, for which I did, that’s fun! Here’s the link for the library: http://www.lib.usf.edu.ezproxy.lib.usf.edu/?utm_campaign=generallink&utm_medium=&utm_source=blackboard&utm_content=bblibrariesmap If you like to become a fan of the USF library just look for the Facebook icon Description: http://www.usphs.gov/images/home/facebook-logo.png. Another Web 2.0 tool used by the USF library is Twitter. Description: https://twitter.com/images/resources/twitter-bird-blue-on-white.png With this tool, one is able to participate in adding a comment, and finding out what others are saying about a particular topic. I found out that USF has iPads available to be checked out! Here is the link for USF Twitter: https://twitter.com/USFLibraries


   
      References
   Click, A.  &  Petit, J. (20107). Social networking and Web 2.0 in information literacy. International Information And Library Review, 42(International Perspectives on Information Literacy and e-skills), 137-142. doi:10.1016/j.iilr.2010.04.007

L    Lammers, D. (2012). Still Facing Obstacles to Web 2.0 Use by Your Library? Try Henrico's Approach. Virginia Libraries, 58(1), 26-28.

T   Tripathi, M., & Kumar, S. (2010). Use of Web 2.0 tools in academic libraries: A reconnaissance of the international landscape. International Information & Library Review, 42(3), 195-207.

2 comments:

  1. I think you are absolutely on to something about the privacy issue. But I think there is also a problem with regard to what may be deemed inappropriate as well - what I consider appropriate may offend someone, and vice versa. Both of these issues require that someone monitors the sites -- is that the person's sole job? If not, when are they supposed to do it? And when are these librarians being trained to use this technology? Who pays for that training? What happens when a new technology emerges? Although I think using Web 2.0 technologies in a library setting are extremely vital to stay abreast of the ever-changing technological world, there are a few kinks that need to be worked out.

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  2. I liked what you said about RSS feeds. I had never used them before this class and I have to agree they are a great way to save some time. You brought up a good point about Web 2.0 not being unrestricted everywhere. It is a good thing that in America moderation of posts is done is a benevolent way. I also think that your emphasis on the word FREE is vital in this economy, no library needs ways to spend more money but they all need ways to spend less while staying current.

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