The Internet and WWW (Implications to libraries)

Title of the article:A-Lib. 2.0 (New Avatar Academic Libraries with Web 2.0 Applications
Author:Mallikarjun Dora, Bulu Maharana
Publisher:International Caliber
URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10760/14123

    The demand of technology in the library has become in need in providing library service. In academic libraries, students and faculty are increasingly needing easier and greater access to its services. Technology has allowed in providing new opportunities for academic libraries to reach out through websites, local databases and subscription e-journals. Web 2.0 technologies include web services which helps in making library service more interactive, collaborative and web-based called Library 2.0. In academic libraries, the inclusion of web 2.0 into it is termed Academic Library 2.0 (A-Lib. 2.0).

      In its conceptual framework, the academic library can provide for both social and academic needs of its users. Its basic framework is designing it for both virtual and physical space based on the type of interpersonal interaction (in both social and academic user needs). Due to technological advancement, libraries are constantly changing in their collection and services and they must adapt to all these changes to continuously provide efficient service.

Three things I learned from my Reading Assignment:

1. The academic library is in a unique position in implementing Library 2.0 services. It is utilized predominantly by young library users who are very adept in a technologically-dependent environment.

2. Library 2.0 is the transformation of library services through web services which makes it more personalized, interactive, collaborative, web-based and driven by community needs.

3. The academic library provides for both social and academic needs of its users. Social needs include conversing, gossiping, chatting, joking on the other hand, academic needs include collaborating, learning, teaching and listening.

Application:

Academic Librarians must be open to all changes brought about by technology as these help provide most needed information needs of its users. This openness must be responsive and committed to providing timely library service.