Public library 2.0: towards a new mission for public libraries as a network of community knowledge

Chowdhury, G., Poulter, A. and McMenemy, D. (2006) Public library 2.0: towards a new mission for public libraries as a network of community knowledge. Online Information Review, 30(4), pp. 454-460. (doi: 10.1108/14684520610686328)

Abstract

Purpose: This article seeks to propose a new vision for public libraries in the digital age. Design/methodology/approach: This conceptual paper is based on an understanding of the recent developments in ICT, internet and digital libraries; and also on the authors' personal experience in research and development in library and information science – especially in relation to public libraries – and digital libraries. Findings: The study argues that currently there are no proper mechanisms for capturing, preserving and disseminating community knowledge, and proposes that public libraries in the digital age should take a new role whereby they should act not only as a gateway to knowledge, but also as a platform facilitating the creation of, and access to, local community knowledge. Proposes a model for PL2.0 where public libraries can take on this new role to build a network of community knowledge. Research limitations/implications: The paper proposes a conceptual model for the second generation of public libraries, and further studies are required to test and implement the model. Practical implications: The paper proposes that the new role of public libraries will be to shift from solely providing access to knowledge to acting as a platform for the storage and dissemination of local community knowledge within the global context created by twenty‐first century digital technologies. Originality/value: The proposed model will bring in a “cultural change” by giving a new role to public libraries in preserving and disseminating community knowledge.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: McMenemy, Dr David
• Authors: Chowdhury, G., Poulter, A., and McMenemy, D.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Information Studies
• Journal Name: Online Information Review
• Publisher: Emerald
• ISSN: 1468-4527