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What is Library 2.0?

Kim Holmberg (Department of Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland)
Isto Huvila (Department of Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland)
Maria Kronqvist‐Berg (Department of Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland)
Gunilla Widén‐Wulff (Department of Information Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Åbo, Finland)

Journal of Documentation

ISSN: 0022-0418

Article publication date: 24 July 2009

8006

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to define both theoretically and empirically the concept of Library 2.0.

Design/methodology/approach

Written answers to the question “What is Library 2.0?” given by practitioners and researchers (n=29) interested in Library 2.0 issues were analyzed by using co‐word analysis to map the underlying elements of the concept.

Findings

The study resulted in a model of Library 2.0, containing seven building‐blocks of the phenomenon: interactivity, users, participation, libraries and library services, web and web 2.0, social aspects, and technology and tools.

Research limitations/implications

The model provides a basis for framing Library 2.0 as a research object and to map central themes of future research.

Practical implications

A comprehensive model enables both researchers and practitioners to frame the phenomenon more clearly, evaluate existing and planned services and their proximity to what is Library 2.0.

Originality/value

Unlike earlier proposals for a definition of the notion Library 2.0, the present study presents an empirical and consensual crowd‐sourcing approach of defining the concept Library 2.0 and provides basis for discussing the future evolution of the notion and its implications for library and information science research and library practices.

Keywords

Citation

Holmberg, K., Huvila, I., Kronqvist‐Berg, M. and Widén‐Wulff, G. (2009), "What is Library 2.0?", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 65 No. 4, pp. 668-681. https://doi.org/10.1108/00220410910970294

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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