Librarian 2.0

With newer technologies are emerging  and making Web 2.0 better, so then libraries are doing the same. Library and information science professionals are integrating web technologies into the libraries in a new model of Library 2.0. Library 2.0 requires a new kind of LIS professional (Partridge, Menzies, Lee, & Munro, 2010). Now is the time to train librarians to instruct and inform users to new technologies such as RSS, wikis, blogging, social networking, and other social media technologies. Libraries that do not adapt and allow the emergence of these technologies will be positioning for a bad presence and cause division among users (Abrams, 2008).

Changes in Web 2.0 will not be made possible without the future improvement and competency of library professionals. Abrams (p.22) gives a plethora of skills that a Librarian 2.0 should be able to perform. Here is a sampling of the skills.

Librarian 2.0

• combines e-resources and print format seamlessly.
• learn the major tools of Web 2.0 and Library 2.0.
• uses the latest tools of communication to connect content, expertise, information coaching, and people.
• mines their usage data for insights into user behaviors.

As Web 2.0 changes the dynamics of business growth and the way users utilize technology in the workplace and homes, so should the library professionals. 

Abram, S. (2008). Social libraries. Library Resources & Technical Services, 52(2), 19-22.

Casey, M. E., & Savastinuk, L. C. (2006). [Hyper-Link]. Library 2.0: Service for the Next-Generation Library. Library Journal, 131(14), 40.Retrieved from http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2010/05/technology/library-2-0/#_

The Modern Librarian. (n.d.). Library 2.0 [Google Image]. Retrieved from http://themodernlibrarian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/workshop2.jpg

Partridge, H., Menzies, V., Lee, J., & Munro, C. (2010). The contemporary librarian: Skills, knowledge and attributes required in a world of emerging technologies. Library & Information Science Research (07408188), 32(4), 265-271. doi:10.1016/j.lisr.2010.07.001