Library 2.0

"Library 2.0 is a loosely defined model for a modernized form of library service that reflects a transition within the library world in the way that services are delivered to users. The concept of Library 2.0 borrows from that of Business 2.0 and Web 2.0 and follows some of the same underlying philosophies. This includes online services such as the use of OPAC systems and an increased flow of information from the user back to the library.

With Library 2.0 library services are constantly updated and reevaluated to best serve library users. Library 2.0 also attempts to harness the library user in the design and implementation of library services by encouraging feedback and participation. Proponents of this concept expect that ultimately the Library 2.0 model for service will replace traditional, one-directional service offerings that have characterized libraries for centuries.

More info at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_2.0"

Some of you have read that MLC is in Second Life from a previous post. What MLC and other libraries seem to have done is join forces and brought Library 2.0 to Second Life. Information Sciences moves to an online service that is a 3d chat room to some, a platform for creativity to others, and businesses to others. Everything in between seems to also be represented. Check out SL, the sim: Cybrary City, and the article on Wikipedia if you want to know just where we are going to deliver information to users.

Bookmonger

MLC tries Second Life

Second Life is a 3d platform. For some of it's members, it's a game, for others an opportunity. Money can be made and lost along with friends. What it also can do is provide a simulated life within an online community. MLC is in with the likes of Yahoo, IBM, companies such at Radio Shack, Circuit City, as well as online companies that buy and trade for online virtual goods.

What is MLC doing there? For this person standing on the outside looking in, I believe they want to see if there is a way to provide library services to an online community. It's already being done with ebooks. The delivery system of sending through email and fax's, online card catalogs and so would this truely be any different? Second Life is proud to announce that they have literally thousands of users registered. With the possibility of that many users needing services, perhaps MLC and the other world wide libraries taking part, this may be the beginning of where we will be in the digital age in 5 years..10..25.

I've been a long time member of Second Life. There have been librarians, media people, techies, and others associated with our profession within SL all along. It's nice to see an organization try to bring it all together and provide a service.

To read more about MLC, check out it's blog on Dec 7th. http://mlcnet.org/blog/

To read more about Second Life: http://secondlife.com

Bookmonger

We're losing our money!

Oh boy-just found out today (but will receive more details tomorrow) that all district budgets will be frozen. Yikes! For those of you who have already been down this astounding piece of calamity I'd appreciate feedback about some of the most successful methods you've found that bring funds into your libraries.

I'm wondering if maybe we host a grant expert at one of our meetings who could specifically help us with this, as I know we are all struggling to survive.

Maybe I'll feel better after our dept. meeting tomorrow when I find out more details; I have a feeling though that this is just wishful thinking.