Web 2.0, Comparison of 3 Libraries

A quick check on 3 libraries and their use of web 2.0 tools. To begin with I found that Libraries use a range of tools, ie - they don't all blog or use twitter. Larger libraries and academic libraries are far more likely to use these tools than the small suburban public libraries. That being said, responses varied and the pattern of collaboration that indicates the tool is web 2.0 was achieved to varying degrees. I assert from this that Web 2.0 tools can be downgraded to Web 1.0 tools if used in a way that does not engage the collaboration or conversation of its users and is merely another method to 'mail out' information.


Twitter appears to be the tool of choice for most libraries with short concise messages of a promotional or current affairs nature. Twitter was the only tool that the number of followers could be seen and noted, although it doesn't prove that the message is received, it does show interest.

All the blogs were constructed well and included mainly promotional material, the lack of comments for Charles Sturt University and UTS negates the collaborative effects however there are no measures to tell the usage, the blogs almost take on a bookmark effect highlighting resources but not giving the log (narration, opinion or creative aspect) or discussion. The State Library blogs that included expert knowledge engaged more comments than noted on the other blogs indicating that content has allot to do with the use of this tool and that blogs used for merely promotional purposes are not by nature collaborative.

The Live chat function included on most libraries can be considered a web 2.0 tool due to its instant messaging styles, conversation being a key pattern of web 2.0. Although restricted by hours and days, the hours appear to suit the university environment but I would have expected the larger state library to include more availability. Analysis of usage of these services would be required to make a more accurate assessment of their usefulness.

Web 2.0 tools are implemented to meet user needs, it appears that content is a key factor in the usefulness or to attract user engagement thus making the tool worthwhile. A 2.0 Library is a user expectation that must be analysed with particular focus on content and what the tools convey rather than the tools themselves.