Monday, November 22, 2010
Reading notes, November 22, 2010
I really like the idea of using wikis in libraries. It seems like a great way to share knowledge both among employees within an organization and between the organization and the public. As younger patrons grow up with wikipedia and are used to finding and using information found online, it makes sense that these patrons would gravitate easily to using a wiki-styled instruction source. I also like the idea of using tagging for library resources. Controlled vocabulary serves a good purpose, but alone it sometimes is lacking. It doesn't match up oftentimes with the terms chosen by the average user, even in systems that account for synonyms. Like wikis, tagging is something young people are familiar with. Libraries need to change with the times and use new practices and new technologies in order to remain relevant. I found all of these articles interesting. Social networking, wikies, tagging, and similar technologies are all changing the way that people and institutions interact. I look forward to being able to be creative in using these things on the job.
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I agree that wikis could offer some really cool opportunities for libraries. You make a good point about younger patrons growing up with these technologies. Since these patrons will be the ones sustaining libraries in the future, it is definitely important to reach out to them and for libraries to "keep up with the times" so to speak.
ReplyDeleteGreat point, Kel, about kids today truly growing up with these technologies and using them in everyday life. This is such a critically important point to remember when considering implementing a wiki with even the youngest patrons.
ReplyDeleteThe students I am currently working with for my student teaching practicum are thrilled to use a wiki in an upcoming project...web 2.0 technology is quite intuitive for them, and they respond well to using this kind of tool in the classroom. They are also learning the value of collaboration early on, thus preparing them for future encounters and working with groups of people. I think you are absolutely correct in saying that if libraries are to survive and remain relevant in peoples' everyday lives, we must be willing and eager to change and embrace these new technologies.
-Rachel