The following is an excerpt from my conclusion re: Do Libraries Matter? The Rise of Library 2.0
The main argument put forth by the authors is that technology is fast advancing, and subsequently, so are its users (Chad & Miller, 2005). Thus, this begs the question of what the traditional library system – a physical structure whose main function is offering physical material – will evolve into. This question becomes significant in considering the implications of Library 2.0. That is, that libraries accommodate to the growing demand for free, open source technology that will enable library users to access information in the moment that the information is requested. While the argument presented by the authors is backed up by information and findings that are a commonality in the library field, the reality of this document is that it is a commercial publication, where the author’s intent is to sell a product through the guise of education. That said, the education and discussion of Library 2.0 would be best disseminated through the lens of librarians, and other pertinent library workers.
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2 comments:
Hey Jen! I agree that future ponderings, intelligent debates and realistic options surrounding Library 2.0 are best left to library workers and information professionals. Chad and Miller's arguments were all a little too transparent for my taste!
I love that all of us TPL folk are resisting the Talis argument. I feel like I need to backpedal and explain that I do think that the idea of incorporating mash-ups into library systems is kinda neat, but at what cost? Is the expectation that libraries should start dedicating so much money, time and individuals to the development of more "desirable" web capabilities that other important library features - such as community program and better collections - fall by the wayside? Maybe that isn't the implication Talis meant to put out in its article, but it really should have been addressed, or with slightly less bandwagon-ish enthusiasm. I'm sure the library professionals that know the system so well, that dedicate their time to it, are well aware of the kinds of technological advances that could easily be made. Maybe there's a reason why we aren't trying to keep up with the Joneses, aka. Amazon.
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