I really liked this article. One.. because it was short and to the point. =) But I also think that it made some very valid points in regards to RA technologies.
I have to agree with the three key points that the author brings out. Technology is more than just the wave of the future. Now a days, it very hard to survive in the real world unless you are somewhat knowledgeable with the different types of technologies out there. Is there a fear that technology will have a negative effect on people, particularly in the social realm. Yes. I do think it will. People no longer are talking face to face but are using phones and computers to talk to others. But technology is making the world move at such a rapid pace that is pretty hard not to keep up with unless you go for the ride. Libraries face this dilemma because the world of books and knowledge are no longer found just on paper but in the internet.
I fully agree with the three points the author discusses. Yes, we need to make it personal- get the patrons involved and consider their input. Not only will it make the patron happy and want to use the services of the library, it will work out for libraries to have an idea of what their patrons are looking for!
Yes. We need to get social. Those who say they want nothing to do with social networking sites.. well.. you may be digging yourself in a grave. Especially when it comes to our younger patrons, it is important for librarians to be in the know. Facebook, Twitter, LinkEd and other social networks allow for libraries to stay connected with their patrons.
And YES, we need to go where our patrons go. GoodReads, Shelfari, LibraryThing. All great websites promoting books and reading. Creating blogs, podcasts and websites gearing towards the interest of our patrons and for the library- great idea!
Library's need to evolve. If they don't, I can't see them surviving in the digital age.
