Thing #2 - Read up on Library 2.0

I've been reading and hearing about "L2" for quite some time, and I have been using many of the tools already. I have been active in online forums, message boards, chat rooms, and IM since 2000. I have had Flickr and Youtube accounts for a couple of years now. I started a Facebook account earlier this year to keep up with my family. So why haven't I gotten past Thing 2 in six months? Perhaps I need to think about this like Stephen Abram said - make time to do it. He always found time to smoke two packs a day. Right now I am finding time to find at least one geocache a day. Yep, I'm working on a challenge called the "Streak" where I have to find at least one a day. Today is day 75, and I still need to get out there. I'm also working on another streak called the "KB 100" which means I still have to find a cache each day, hidden by a notorious cache hider named King Boreas. I started that streak later, so I am on day 25 for that one. Somehow, I have made time. I guess the yardwork and housework has slid a bit since I started this. It'll end.

So I'm making more time to do this. Honestly, my main fear about starting this program is the time it will take. I am already avoiding my Facebook account because of the time I can spend there. I'm not afraid of these new tools, I'm just quite aware of how addicting they can be, and I still want to have time to geocache!

As far as using the L2 tools at work: We have already been using them for IM between library branches in my library system. I like the fact that the phones aren't ringing as much. I wouldn't mind using IM with patrons with reference either, it would be better than the email version we do now, since you can get immediate clarification in a reference interview. Of course, I would still prefer to see the patron face-to-face to get them the best reference interview, but I agree with the whole concept of taking our services to where the users are and want it.

Almost daily I hear from the patrons who like some classic library service, or don't like some change we have made. My library gets alot of visits from seniors. However, I am concerned that my library remains relevant for all users, especially the future taxpayers, whose image of us now will impact their williness to fund us in the future. These Web 2.0 tools are being used by our local youth. Let's go out there and get them!