Web 2.0 means a new level of service by libraries to a different generation of users. With more rapid access to information, library users will undoubtedly have more complex questions and will want access to some data more quickly. With the widespread use of Facebook and other social networking media, libraries will need to have a presence there in order to reach a larger portion of the population in a way that is much more efficient and cost effective than previously imagined. Libraries will more readily be able to promote their services to their users and especially niche groups of users. Additionally, the library can receive almost instantaneous feedback on its services from a whole different gamut of library users.
Libraries will be challenged to provide fact checking for information contributed to the web and librarians will need to become even savvier at using the web and databases to fact-check information. Libraries will also be challenged to provide training and information to increase computer literacy among certain segments of the population. As more and more of the population are using social networking media in everyday life, consulting the web for finance and travel information (tom mention just a few areas), and conducting business transactions online, the population will be looking to increase their sophistication in using computers and social networking media.
The incredible growth in the use of social networking sites in the last two years means that libraries will need to adapt and get on the band wagon. Users will have a chance to improve their perceptions of libraries as being in the forefront of these new advances.
