WikingPartie.com

Do you think about jumping into web 2.0 with your library? Are you considering creating a Wiki? I just created a successful wiki in my college library. I'd like to share some tips and tricks for making it a success.

1. What wiki platform will you use? It is important because there are many wiki platforms out there. They all have different features, prices, setup, and the ability to control who can see your wiki and who can post to it.

2. Are you looking to use your wiki solely for organizing and updating material on your website's pages? Do you want your patrons to interact with one another through the wiki?

3. What exactly is your wiki for? To facilitate communication between library employees. To communicate with patrons? To allow patrons to communicate?

4. 4.What content will you include on your Wiki? Links to other pages of your library web site, a searchable catalog of library materials, information about classes and events at the library, announcements, news, and other items.

5. Are you willing to pay for a Wiki service or would you prefer to use a free Wiki?

6. Do you have a tech support person who can help you set up your wiki or assist with periodic maintenance? Do you know of a librarian who could manage the technical side of maintaining a Wiki? While a wiki is easier to use and maintain than a regular website it can be difficult to put up and not spend any time on it.

7. You can also create wiki-specific content. We created subject pages for all the major subjects at our college. These pages included links to books, databases, ebooks, special encyclopedias, and websites for each subject. Our library news and policies are also available on our wiki. Your patrons should be able to access the wiki and use it.

8. Wikis are the technology of the future. As more libraries and businesses use them, it will be in your best interest to learn how one works and decide if it is right to implement at your library.