Special Libraries and 2.0: Making it Work

Madeline Kriescher discusses how special libraries can utilize Web 2.0 technologies like Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and blogs to provide virtual reference services and tutorials. She explains how the U.S. Courts Library has created research tutorials using Flickr and maintained a library Facebook page to share information about events, pictures, tutorials, and continuing legal education opportunities with clerks and other audiences. Kriescher also outlines some benefits of using these technologies, such as reaching wider audiences and changing attitudes, but notes potential drawbacks like security risks and difficulties gaining support from IT departments and judges wary of new technologies.