Lessons for libraries from the Brown reading:
It is true that libraries are institutions that have existed for a long time and have policies and procedures in place – but they need to adapt to changing times – they need to be able to attract the newer generation that believes internet is the answer to all questions – libraries need to embrace Web 2.0. Having said that the flip side of this lesson is that libraries should strive to become knowledge providers rather than just knowledge repositories.
I liked how Brown mention “we have answers” or “solutions” – it seems we spend too much time answering and too little time understanding what a user needs – lesson learnt in last semesters reference class seems especially relevant – the libraries need to ensure that the reference interview is an integral part of the interaction with the patrons.
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5 comments:
I agree with you Rupali, libraries spend time answering and little on understanding. It reminds me of the IPL project we had for the Reference class.
I agree with you Rupali, libraries spend time answering and little on understanding. It reminds me of the IPL project we had for the Reference class.
Absolutely! That's the only way libraries will be able to keep up. If there is no research into the changing needs of all types of people, libraries could get passed over for other services and possibly become obsolete in the eyes of many.
Interesting comments, Rupali and Hala, about reference last semester. Does it all come down to time constraints? Which comes down to budget? As "volunteers" we answered the IPL questions as they were asked. We were not encouraged to go back to the requestor for more info. And, most frustrating for our professor, we were told NOT to give the answer but to show how to find it. Was that an attempt to provide knowledge rather than information? And would it work in that context?
Internet resources (and Web 2.0) changed the role of libraries in many ways.
Libraries used to focus more on searching for information in print versions of reference resources, or collecting rare materials, etc.
Now with Web 2.0, the librarian should also have the ability to analyze and distinguish trustworthy information on the Internet as well as embrace the new technology to service the younger generation.
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