This is one of the best descriptions for the general public I have seen for library 2.0. It is from the Rapid City Public Library's website. Their director, Greta Chapman is one of two people who have had a profound effect on my development as a librarian and an information professional.
Libraries have to evolve continuously to keep up with the changing needs of their users.
In the past, Libraries were just places to find books. Since then, the library has grown to become a community gathering place where people can share ideas and experiences together. When the Internet revolution happened less than 10 years ago, no one knew what kind of impact it would bring. One impact was the creation of Library 2.0, the second generation of enhanced Library services existing in the online world.
Library 2.0 is not something specific—it is a concept that refers to a collection of online tools used to deliver services in an interactive online experience. With Library 2.0, the library will be a meeting place existing both online and in the physical world where patron needs for entertainment and information can be met. 2.0 services also offer patrons the ability to actively contribute information, giving them a stronger voice in library collections and services.
The Rapid City Public Library will release these new interactive tools to the public along with user classes to introduce the tools to the community and demonstrate their usefulness.
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