New Library World

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine a new collaborative electronic platform available to libraries of all types.

Design/methodology/approach – Introduces potential application of wikis discussed by academics and librarians, along with personal viewpoint.

Findings – A wiki is a very good example of the best of democracy in which self-organizing behavior enforces community norms. Typically, wikis are open to everyone and erroneous information could easily be entered, but they are monitored by dedicated members and information is corrected quickly. While viewed as a platform with many advantages for timely and efficient collaborative efforts, there is still a sense of lack of accountability and cumbersome technological hurdles.

Originality/value – Wikis offer the opportunity for wide project collaboration and the possibility of a better product in the end.