Planting 2.0 seeds in the academic library community garden

Abstract

Librarians are now routinely using so-called Library 2.0 technologies in their work, not only for the purpose of enhancing internal operations but also for improving public service applications for patrons. The University Library at the University of Michigan engaged library staff in structured exercises during the summer of 2007 to inform, train, and stimulate exploration of these technologies in their everyday work through a program entitled, MLibrary2.0 Series. At the same time, a smaller group at the Harlan Hatcher Graduate Library set out to survey the library landscape for fertile ground in which 2.0 applications could thrive. Whether because we were immersed in the spirit of 2.0 experimentation or because of the wide-open charge we were given, we found our group working in organic ways atypical of the standard process commonly found in library committees. For example, in order to meet our objectives, we found ourselves connecting with library staff with whom we otherwise would have limited contact. Our activities forced us to grapple with administrative, technological and motivational issues. Inspired by activities within our professional networks and experimentation already going on within our library system, we decided on a few proof-of-concept projects.