Friday, February 15, 2008

Thing 2

Library 2.0...random thoughts

I can’t seem to get past this silly label. I know we're talking technology, but can't we come up with something less nerdy? Libraries are always changing. This isn't the second incarnation.

Besides, L2 seems so yesterday. Maybe we can call it Library 2000? We have been doing this stuff for years. We have coffee shops, we offer free computer classes led by staff, we spend $$ on technology.

I love that technology allows improvement for two-way communication. There is an ongoing trend with businesses encouraging the end-user to create their own products--Jones Soda, Shutterfly, M&Ms, U.S. postage. Why not get on board?

Our frontline staff members are the face of our organization. We should highlight a few of them with blogs! Patrons could not only interact with staff on-line, but they would recognize them when they come in the buildings also. This would build a level of comfort and possibly lessen the intimidation factor some have with librarians.

I think this course will empower staff to interact with technology users while feeling confident in their knowledge. I hope a great number of people are using it!

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