Library 2.0 Guides

Library 2.0 -- the technologies are rapidly moving from novelty to SOP. Here's three recent publications for those of us who are old enough to remember learning about baud rates. [JH]

• Meredith G. Farkas, Social Software in Libraries: Building Collaboration, Communication, and Community Online (March 20, 2007)
• Michael E. Casey and Laura C. Savastinuk, Library 2.0: A Guide to Participatory Library Service (May 21, 2007)
• Library 2.0 and Beyond: Innovative Technologies and Tomorrow's User, edited by Nancy Courtney (June 30, 2007)

Social Software in Libraries: Building Collaboration, Communication, and Community Online
by Meredith G. Farkas

List Price: $39.95
Paperback: 344 pages
Publisher: Information Today, Inc. (March 20, 2007)
ISBN-10: 157387275X
ISBN-13: 978-1573872751

Product Description: Here is the first book to explore the growing phenomenon of social software and how these technologies can be applied in libraries. Social software lets libraries show a human face online, helping them communicate, educate, and interact with their communities. This nuts-and-bolts guide provides librarians with the information and skills necessary to implement the most popular and effective social software technologies: blogs, RSS, wikis, social networking software, screencasting, photo-sharing, podcasting, instant messaging, gaming, and more. Success stories and interviews highlight these tools ease-of-use and tremendous impact. Novice readers will find ample descriptions and advice on using each technology, while veteran users of social software will discover new applications and approaches. Supported by the author's Web page.

Library 2.0: A Guide to Participatory Library Service
by Michael E. Casey and Laura C. Savastinuk

List Price: $29.95
Publisher: Information Today, Inc. (May 21, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1573872970
ISBN-13: 978-1573872973

Product Description: Two of the first and most original thinkers on Library 2.0 introduce the essential concepts and offer ways to improve service to better meet the changing needs of 21st century library users. Describing a service model of constant and purposeful change, evaluation and updating of library services, and user participation, the book both outlines the theoretical underpinnings of Library 2.0 and provides practical advice on how to get there. From incorporating technology to reaching the long tail, from getting buy-in to maintaining momentum, all aspects of Library 2.0 are covered.

Library 2.0 and Beyond: Innovative Technologies and Tomorrow's User
by Nancy Courtney (Editor)

List Price: $45.00
Publisher: Libraries Unlimited (June 30, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1591585376
ISBN-13: 978-1591585374

Book Description: Library 2.0: does everyone seem to know what this means except you? Or are you reasonably well informed but wondering what challenge to take on next? In this new work, Nancy Courtney has assembled some of the most forward looking thinkers in the library world to describe the next generation of online tools. Beginning with Steven J. Bell, each contributor introduces his or her favorite technology, outlines its use, and discusses its potential in today's library environment. Topical coverage includes blogs and wikis, social networking and tagging technologies, folksonomies, podcasting, gaming, digital storytelling, the "new" catalog, and virtual reality libraries.