What in the world is a wiki? Wikis are websites that “allow users to easily create and post content instantly from any web browser and they also allow users to edit site content, as well as add their own pages or sections” (LIBS 2606 Course Notes). Perhaps the most famous wiki is the website Wikipedia. Many patrons turn to Wikipedia as a “reference” site. However, it is important that patrons realize that this site is not a “scholarly” one and should not be used as such. Wikipedia can be edited by anyone with an internet connection. After all, on the internet, anyone can be an “expert”. While the articles found on Wikipedia may be interesting, it is important to stick to scholarly sources for reliable research.
Library staff can use wikis as an “efficient, flexible, user-friendly and cost-effective interface for interaction with patrons” (LIBS 2606 Course Notes). As also pointed out in the course notes, these wikis can be used to inform patrons about library events or it can even be used as a discussion forum. The use of wikis can be a great way for libraries to reach their patrons. Today’s patrons tend to embrace technology; therefore, it is a good idea for libraries to utilize this technology. Having a forum for patrons to discuss library issues allow them to feel connected to the library environment which will ensure that they continue to utilize the library and its resources.
Wikis are a relatively new technology that can be of great use to library staff. They can reach a large number of patrons instantly and given today’s technological climate, they are an excellent resource for libraries to utilize.
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