Web 2.0 and how libraries can make the most of it...

The 23 Things Initiative has definitely shown that there are hundreds of Web 2.0 applications. This in itself is significant, it illustrates the widespread use of ICT in all spheres of our daily lives and how reliant we are upon electronic methods of communication. However, perhaps what is more interesting is how these applications can be used in the Information Sector. In fact, I think the first question which needs to be asked is, are they being used? From reading other 23 Things blogs it sounds as if many of the Bodleian Libraries are using Web 2.0 tools such as Facebook, Delicious, Twitter, blogs to communicate with each other and to their readers. After researching this topic it seems to be a widespread assumption that Web 2.0 makes a librarian's life easier but with so many applications to choose from and the constant battle to compete for readers' attention when they are bombarded with a whole host of information on the Internet may mean that we have to try even harder to communicate effectively with readers.

I also found an interesting set of Podcasts through the CILIP website which are recorded by the 'Library 2.0 Gang'. They can be accessed at http://librarygang.talis.com/. Once again, the librarians in participating in this programme fully acknowledge the wide range of resources available but they are a bit more hesitant about how they can be used by libraries.