Web 2.0 Euology

Well, it's not quite dead....let's just say it's taking a break for now.

The Library Department has finished its Web 2.0 learning initiative. And what a long, strange trip it's been. Back in November when this whole thing started, I never would have thought I would have my own blog or have set up so many internet accounts for online collaboration. Quite a trip indeed.

I can honestly say that I have enjoyed the 2.0 experience. I have learned so many things, connected with so many people and have so many more things I want to investigate. I can't say that I want to set up a "My Space" account, but I'll at least learn more about it. I did set up a Flickr account (probably my favorite of them all so far) and a Library Thing account (probably one I won't use so much - or ever) and del.icio.us (which I just love) - just to name a few.

Web 2.0 has taught me to keep an open mind and try not to show my age too much. Just because I don't want to set up a My Space account, doesn't mean I can't visit friends who have done so. I love all of the tools, engines and creator/generator tools available - how cool are some of those? I have come to learn that our only limits are our own imagination - or fear of not knowing something. You have to put yourself out there (to some degree) to experience these learning tools and then you make a decision if they are right for you or not.

On the other hand, some of those in library land (I'm thinking information staff) may be required to use these tools in the future in order to productively communicate with our customers and effectively deliver the services they demand. Time will tell, but I do know that we can't keep sticking our heads in the sand and ignoring these technologies and whatever else comes down the pike next month, or next year!

The future is now - we have to adapt, accept, and change if we are to survive.