After studying the provided literature I have come to the conclusion that the essence of Library 2.0 is to provide users with the opportunity to help with the development of new services and to maintain existing services.
Library 2.0 can be seen as a strategy guide for finding information, gathering knowledge and creating content.
Interactive communication between librarians and library users being the main focus. It emphasises the importance of frequent evaluation of services, followed by updating and changing services as required. A constant flow of ideas between librarians and users in a virtual or physical environment.
Library committees have been around for many decades. Often set up by enthusiastic librarians and users. After time most of these committees loose their initial enthusiasm and force, due to various reasons. Lack of time to attend meetings being one of the main reasons.
With Library 2.0 the whole idea of library committees can be restyled. Social networking is the buzz activity of the moment! The ideal opportunity for libraries to get involved into the daily online life of users and the public.
Another suggestion is updating the library website and adding some of the Web 2.0 applications. A blog, RSS feeds, Library Thing widget, Wiki’s, Twitter, joining a social network like Facebook or Hyves linked to the Library website.
People spend hours on the internet. Even if they complain that they never have time, they somehow always find time to browse the internet. To check e-mail or the updates to their social networks (social/ music/ hobby/ career based). Library users are active on social networks. A library blog or network will be the ideal place where they can share their ideas and feedback about the library.
Wouter Gerritsma provided some interesting statistics. At the age of 21 the average Dutch youth has send and received 250 000 emails and text messages, and spend 3500 hours on the internet.
Why not use this opportunity to get in touch with the youth again? The library can manage this by becoming visible on social networks.
The new service point at the Heerbeeck College might be an ideal starting point.
There are so many excellent examples of how Library 2.0 works in practice. So many webinars and presentations available. With enthusiastic people on the Ning network providing examples, evaluating projects and sharing the enthusiasm about change.
Certainly worth concidering and giving it a try.
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