Circulation

The Impact and Benefits of Learning 2.0 Programs in Public Libraries
Michael Stephens

MS’s presentation about the research gathered for his CAVAL 2009 Fellowship.

Setting the stage: Things are changing quickly… social media/tools are increasing and people are using them at an astounding rate… Those using these technologies fall into categories according to age…(Older folks not as likely to be using the technologies, though those numbers are becoming smaller –  the “inactives” (those that do not use 2.0) is growing small…

CHALLENGES we’re facing:

SaveLibraries.org — most recent fight: Charlotte Mecklenberg –
MS asks: What are we going to do in library school to prepare future librarians for this?

> Embedded
> Silos of Knowledge – what happens when those with institutional knowledge retire and take information with them?
> Organizational Structure
> Barriers and Rules
> Technology — includes: technolust (wanting something because it’s cool); technostress (the stress of keeping up with all the new technologies); technodivorce (how can we let stuff go); technoshame (libraries that have access vs. those who don’t); technophobia (not moving forward)

Libraries must know new media in order to stay relevant…

His research looked at organizations that have utlilized the web 2.0 teaching programs (“23 Things on a Stick”, etc.)

He looked at the institutional impact – transformational/viral activities take place
Transparency – offer inclusive learning – when libraries are approached to do outreach – SAY YES!

[ps - MS highly recommends reading Daniel Pink's A Whole New Mind - it discusses the way we are evolving our thinking from right brained to left brained...]

Ways to foster learning in an organization: HAVE FUN! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Libraries should move to a culture of experimentation…

How will you reward failure and recovery? MS mentioned the Librarian in Black is working on compiling information about failure — We need to get away from being afraid to fail because that stifles creativity and moving forward.

MS presented his findings from researching web 2.0 programs in Australian libraries… [See his slides for information on specifics].

Going forward:
> It’s never to late to jump in… See Darien Library’s program for the public – they created a program for the public to learn about new media.
> Map a strategy first!
> Promote core values
> Service
> Trust – staff, each other
> Be Transparent – let folks know what you are doing
> Self-directed exploration – have self-directed workers…
> Break down barriers
> Look for connections
> Use Champions – know who to go for to help ensure support and success
> Be Human – share experience
> Know it’s ok to fail.

Clay Shirky quote: “When technology gets boring, it gets interesting.”

New technology — GIS, mobile, geo-tagging (4-square)

Develop your own personal learning network (PLN). Don’t create an echo-chamber, however — include some folks who you might not agree with – it’s good for learning.

Lastly… Encourage the heart!