The Public Library Technology Institute ("TechExpress") on September 13, 2006 brought three dynamic  library leaders  to Columbia. More than 275 South Carolina librarians were introduced to Library 2.0 user-centered services and new web-based technologies.

Watch streaming video of the day (requires Windows Media player version 9 or higher.) 

View or download the speakers' PowerPoint presentations:

• Stephen Abram:   Finding the Future: Library 2.0
• Jenny Levine:  Community Building through Your Web Site: Library Blogs and RSS Feeds
• Michael Stephens:  Library 2.0: Planning, People & Participation (pdf)

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Readings on Emerging Technologies for Public Libraries

Libraries are using "social software" applications:  Blogging, Photosharing  (Flickr, Photobucket) YouTube, MySpace, and wikis to promote library services.

New finding aids on the Web include tagging, tag clouds, visual catalogs (Aquabrowser), LibraryThing.

Libraries are interested in "personalizing" services - "MyLibrary" concept, Identity 2.0.

Downloadable content has been around for a while, but is gaining popularity in libraries through (e-books and downloadable audiobooks) and new devices (Sony reader, MP3 players, IPods, Playaways).

And, libraries are exploring RFID and wireless access to meet efficiency and access needs.

Readings on Web 2.0

"Web 2.0" is the evolving Web as it exists today. It is the same Web that we've had all along. But the problems, issues, and technologies we're dealing with are in many ways different, and so using the term "Web 2.0" is a recognition that the Web is in a constant state of change, and that we have entered a new era of networked participation.” --Tim O’Reilly

What is Web 2.0?
Tim O'Reilly's definitive Web 2.0 article. Somewhat technical, but clearly explains (with illustrations!) the difference between the “old” Web and Web 2.0.

Into a New World of Librarianship – Michael Stephens on Web 2.0

Wikipedia Entry for Web 2.0
The Wikipedia entry for Web 2.0 calls it the 2nd phase of development of the Web, comprised of technical, social, and economic changes.

Web 2.0: Mistaking the Forest for the Trees?
Dave Rogers writes a great piece on how Web 2.0 empowers users.

Readings on Library 2.0

“Library 2.0 is all about library users -- keeping those we have while actively seeking those who do not currently use our services. It's about embracing those ideas and technologies that can assist libraries in delivering services to these groups, and it's about participation -- involving users in service creation and evaluation.

Library 2.0 is an operating model that allows libraries to respond rapidly to market needs. This does not mean that we abandon our current users or our mission. It is a philosophy of rapid change, flexible organizational structures, new Web 2.0 tools and user participation that will put the library in a much stronger position, ready to efficiently and effectively meet the needs of a larger user population.” -- Michael Casey

Wikipedia entry for Library 2.0 – Good basic definition

Library 2.0 Reading List on Squidoo – A selection of definitive articles

Readings on Social Software

Social Networking for Teens - YALSA article on teens’ use of the Internet

Wikis - Wikis made VERY simple!