Library 2.0 Defined

Library 2.0 has been defined in a variety of ways and, as stated previously, there is no universally agreed upon definition. Most writers will agree on a common set of principles for Library 2.0 that apply to Web delivered service to library patrons:

Library 2.0 is based on a need to provide value-added service to library patrons in the Web environment.
It capitalizes on collective intelligence and labour of its users by allowing them to shape and influence the services they use through feedback, customization and participation;
It involves providing service to users 'where they are at' or 'bringing the library to the user';
Library 2.0 is "format agnostic" (Abrahm, S., 2005). Not only must libraries be prepared to provide information in a variety of formats, including, but not limited to say, music and books in electronic audio format, blogs and video clips, but libraries must also strive to deliver information to users' laptops or PDAs as they desire.

It is important to note that while some writers such as Jack Maness explicitly state that Library 2.0 is "the application of... Web-base technologies to web-based library service," (Maness, J., 2006) others take a broader definition, insisting that spirit of 2.0 can also extend into the physical world. In this sense Library 2.0 is seen as "an attitude not a technology," (Davis, I., 2005).

Applying the broader definition, Bonaria Biancu of the blog, The Geek Librarian has illustrated the Library 2.0 concept with the following meme map:

To what extent can libraries and librarians effectively adopt these principles?