Library 2.0 is a term used to describe a new set of concepts for developing and delivering library services. The name, as you may guess, is an extension of Web2.0 and shares many of its same philosophies and concepts including: harnessing the user in both design and implementation of services; embracing constant change as a development cycle over the traditional notion of upgrades; and reworking library services to meet the users in their space, as opposed to ours.

Many have argued that the notion of Library 2.0 is more than just a term used to describe concepts that merely revolve around the use of technology; it is also a term that can be used to describe both physical and mindset changes that are occurring within libraries to make our spaces and services more user-centric and inviting. Others within the profession have asserted that libraries have always been 2.0: collaborative, customer friendly and welcoming. Still others are skeptical. Library 2.0 discussions tend to get heated. Consider the following provocative articles…

Discovery Resources:

*Library Journal on Library 2.0
*Walt Crawford’s critique
*Library Juice’s concerns regarding Library 2.0 and privacy
*John Blyberg’s Library 2.0 Debased
*Annoyed Librarian’s response to Blyberg: The Cult of the Twopointopias
*An academic’s perspective: Snake Oil, Bandwagons and Library 2.0
*Libodyssey refuses to join the cult…

Discovery Exercise:

1. Read several (or all!) of the articles above.
2. Blog about your reactions.

Optional: Go talk (how very un-2.0!) to your colleagues.