Web 2.0, Library 2.0 and TechnoLust

Cover for "Shelter Kitty Monthly",
originally uploaded by Tjflex2.

Web 2.0, and Library 2.0, it’s all about using today’s technology to the fullest and most efficient degree. Now the question is how do libraries use this technology to deliver what it is that the patrons/customers/users want or use? Before we can deliver the proverbial goods and even more importantly, we need to ask ourselves; how do you lead a horse to water and get it to drink? So how do we get everyone in library systems everywhere to board on this fast moving bandwagon?

See, we all invariably go back to what is comfortable, don’t we? We sometimes resist change. It feels safe and besides who wants to dabble in the techno-flavor of the month? Technology moves so quickly. How can one possibly keep up with it? One operating system is replaced by newer faster operating system. That neat Ipod you just bought last year has now been replaced by the ITouch, which has been integrated into the IPhone, etc, etc, etc. Then there are social networks like MySpace, FaceBook, and blogs, podcasts, and Wikis, and virtual environments like VLES, and SecondLife, not to mention hundreds of search engines. It’s a virtual smörgåsbord of ways to network with people and get information.

So why bother learning anything? It’s too freakin’ much! We’re a library for gosh sakes not IT specialists!!!

I can hear that silent scream in libraries all over the world. It’s the sound of techno-averse staff running scared. After reading Michael Stephen’s “Into a New World of Librarianship” about Library 2.0 online, I thought, dude, you’re preaching to the choir. The ones who need to read about library 2.0 and learn it are too busy gunning for the door; those are the ones you need to reach. Those are the ones we all need to reach or is it our responsibility? The answer is YES. They’re scared, they’re petrified and c’mon let’s give them a hand up on our little bandwagon. Oh, and please reassure them that we’re not going to pull a Thelma & Louise on them. No one’s going over a cliff; we’re all in this together. Talk enthusiastically about what you’re learning here, show them “the way” to a lighter, brighter, techie future, where customers/patrons come here for not only what print/media/database resources we have but because we can show them, using spiffy technology, where to find what it is they need or want.

Of course none of this being techno-averse stuff applies to me. Oh no…I’m the complete opposite. I have deeper issues (sigh). I’m afraid I suffer from Technolust. In fact I googled “12 step programs for those with technolust” but haven’t been able to find a group that meets nearby. So how do I deal with it? I keep learning, learning, learning, and live with my secret desires, even if it makes my head feel like it’s going to explode. I know; I’m hardcore huh? Sigh.

Step #1, Hi, My name is “anonymous” and I admit I am powerless over my technolust….

--to be continued