Web 2.0 based Library Portal

The diversity of web 2.0 tools available to entrepreneurial Libraries is staggering. That they are generally free and hosted externally has obvious benefits to those interested in utilising such tools. A recent article by Michael Stephens describes Dublin City Public Library's experiment with Pageflakes; a personalised start page. Dublin Public Library has created a Library web portal for their public PCs utilising the Pageflakes application. The main benefit to the library is that it allows for the creation of a website that can be quickly updated and displays useful information in a visually appealing manner.

Stephens interviews Edward Byrne (Web Services Librarian DCPL) to discuss the project. It's a fascinating read focusing not only the benefits but the potential pitfalls that can occur when relying on web 2.0 tools.


I know that Martin from Sutherland has created a google catalogue gadget that people can add to their own personal igoogle start-up page (fantastic initiative). I would be interested to know if there are any Public Libraries in Australia that are utilising similar web 2.0 software for the purposes of maintaining a web portal for public PCs? Please post your comments on the RISG tech forum.