Libraries+2.0

=﻿Library 2.0= ...a handy term that refers to the use of Web 2.0 tools by libraries big and small.

What is Web 2.0?
Web 2.0 is the new generation of user-driven web content, and is often called the read/write web. It is an internet "community" if you will, where users interact, collaborate, participate, and in general make the web their own. Web 2.0 encompasses sites like Facebook, Amazon (where users can leave reviews and create and share lists), and twitter, wikis, flickr, and social tagging/bookmark sites like diigo.

How about an example of libraries using web 2.0 tools?
Good idea! Solvang Public Library uses a variety of web 2.0 tools - check out our homepage to see for yourself.

For this article, however, we're going to discuss the use of Facebook by the Palos Verdes Library District (PVLD Facebook Page)

According to Facebook's Press Room (facebook.com), over 500 million people use Facebook; 50% of those users log on to Facebook every day; and the average user is connected to over 80 community pages. This suggests that maintaining a strong presence on Facebook would be a smart move for a library. It's a free and easy way to get users interacting with their library - libraries can post pictures, share links, promote events, etc.

The Palos Verdes Library District uses Facebook for a variety of purposes: The three library branches have posted pictures, promoted events, and shared videos and links to their "favorite" websites. They've also put out volunteer requests, promoted their teen annex, and posted book reviews. Patrons and community members reply to posts, or post their own comments....promoting interaction and conversation among community members.

These are all great ways to remind patrons and community members of the many different ways they can use their library - and all the great resources that are available to everyone.