The model lab in Chicago is called YOUmedia. Although the entire
concept is intriguing, the most interesting piece of the project to me was the
social network they created. The closed network, Online Space, is a “social
learning network . . . where youth can post their work, critique others' work,
and receive feedback from peers, mentors, and professionals.”
My mind instantly began to spin. Discussions of the next
generation ILS (or Integrated Library Platform, whichever you prefer) and the
NextGen OPAC in the literature talk about incorporating more social media. And
new products like LibraryAware will help us make more effective use of social
media. But why isn’t the NextGen ILS a social network itself?
Instead of a library card, you will have a login and password.
You will have a profile (“BiblioFile”?) instead of a patron record, which you
will maintain yourself. No need for circulation staff to hound patrons for
address, phone number, or e-mail updates.
Profiles will be as public or private as you choose. If you
want someone to see what you have checked out and on hold, that’s your choice. Your
timeline will list the books and media you have consumed. (Privacy is dead,
remember?) Your posts will be reviews, recommendations, or original work (text,
media, or a combination). You will be able to form groups, create Q&As, post
polls, start discussion threads.
You will be able to do everything from your account – check
out downloadables; access subscription databases; reserve a room or computer;
sign-up for a computer class; suggest library purchases or event ideas; view
event calendars; create personal itineraries or event reminders; blog; receive
reading recommendations and library newsletters; take online classes; and yes,
do the obvious – use discovery tools, check out, renew, pay fines.
Imagine a mashup of Koha, GoodReads, NoveList, Evanced,
LibraryAware, Ed2Go, Overdrive, Zinio, Pinterest, and Quora. The public library
is the perfect venue for the local social
network. I’m going to be bold here and brand it LoSo (pronounced LOEsoe). Ha! I
can see the criticism already. LoSo is a no-go.
The closest project I can find to this idea is
Read/Write Library Chicago. (Why is everything cool happening in Chicago?)
Their idea is local and social, but not the same thing. LITA is sponsoring a webinar about the project on June 7 if you want to learn more.
