Thing Fifteen: Web 2.0 Future of Libraries

In thinking about Libraries 2.0 and the the impact on the future of libraries, indeed the first thing that does come to mind is the integration of technology for learning. With Web 2.0 and Libraries 2.0, however, I think that the integration of technology goes beyond the lone, independent user and learner to a highly collaborative and social environment where technology is being integrated to learn from and with others. The effect on the future of libraries lies on how well libraries and those running these libraries address the newer needs of the patrons. As the "Away from the icebergs" principle describes, libraries are not now about the print collection that must be amassed in order to serve a need that may arise at one point. In this age, information is more readily accessible than ever through the Internet. So the question is, how do libraries continue to be of value in this new age? Something to ponder about...