Library 2.0 represents a model of change in library services (Kwanya et al., 2009, p. 74). In the video, Laura Cole talked about the use of technology to transform libraries from physical to virtual. That brings changes on the role of libraries and librarians, library services and information accessibility. Below are the four key points that can be applied to academic libraries to help them embracing a Library 2.0 ethos.
- Library is an information liberator/cultivator
For hundreds of years, library was traditionally regarded as a keeper of information, a storehouse of printed collection. Users came to library in person to browse the book stacks and borrow the books. However, Technological advances bring even more changes for libraries, libraries have begun using technology to improve the quality of the services (Joe, 2021, p. 1757-1758). For example, the use of online catalogue and electronic resources including online databases, e-books collections and open access journal facilitate users to search and access the information they need. Besides, the use of online institutional repositories provides another channel for users to search and access scholarly publications of the universities.
- Librarian role: from custodian to navigator
The role of the librarian is shifting from the passive custodian of books to the more active navigator of digital literacy (Cole, 2016). With the advent of social media or video conferencing apps, information literacy sessions can take place digitally. In order to reach out the patron population in digital spaces, librarians need to be familiar with some technologies related to library such as metadata, database search systems, and social networking (Joe, 2021, p. 1759).
- Patron is the destination for information
Digital libraries allow users to access information regardless of time or geographic location. It is convenient for users who cannot physically present at the library such as part-time students, distant learners, and people with special education needs to access information through the digital libraries (Williams, 2018). It also serves as a “third social-hub space” to provide social and emotional connection for users, to promote library’s services, resources and training events in order to keep abreast of the user needs and to enhance their presence in digital space (Williams, 2018).
- Change is essential
Change is challenging to cope with, but it is essential for libraries to exploring the full potential of digital technologies to enhance library services. Academic libraries should realize that they needed to change to continue to stay current and relevant (Joe, 2021, p. 1758). Library professionals need to keep updating their skills and expertise to cope with new challenges.
Reference
Cole, L. (2016, April 15). The re-imagined public library: Where will it find you? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnYDl66YfQ0
Joe, J. A. (2021). Modernizing the academic library. In M. Khosrow-Pour D.B.A. (Eds.), Encyclopedia of information science and technology (5th ed.) (pp. 1757-1766). IGI Global. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.4018/978-1-7998-3479-3.ch121
Kwanya, T, Stilwell, C, & Underwood, P. G. (2009). Library 2.0: Revolution or evolution? South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 75(1), 70–75. https://doi.org/10.7553/75-1-1275
Williams, M. L. (2020). The adoption of Web 2.0 technologies in academic libraries: A comparative exploration. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 52(1), 137–149. https://doi.org/10.1177/0961000618788725