Thursday, October 18, 2007

Poor Richard's Almanack 2.0



The term library 2.0 is used to describe the way libraries are moving towards serving their patrons and communities in the 21st century. The concept is based on current trends in the use of the internet, where there is an explosion of information, in order to access collective intelligence and promote collaborative learning. Library 2.0 is a dynamic, multi-directional system that encourages users to participate and provide feedback. When information flows freely, services have the ability to constantly evolve and improve to meet individuals' needs. Free access to knowledge through books was the original purpose of public libraries, but libraries today cannot possibly house, in print form, all the information which is available on the internet.

The challenge for librarians is to eliminate the barriers between this wealth of information and those who wish to access it. In addition, communities need to support libraries so that free public access to computers is available to those who do not have PCs.

Libraries are an investment in the future. In my opinion, the health of a community is directly related to the importance it places on maintaining a vital, well-staffed library.

1 comment:

Priscilla Puffin said...

Your blog is so awesome Janet! And I cant believe you are Darhma Fuzzyface... must be an alter ego.