Web 2.0 Applications in Top Chinese University Libraries
Author(s):
Dr. Zhiping Han, Dr. YAN QUAN LIU
Journal:
Abstract:
Purpose - Purpose – This survey study explores the status and construction pattern of Web 2.0 technologies employed in top Chinese university libraries, their functionalities and features.Design/methodology/approach - A combination of online survey and content analysis methodology was applied to a sample of 38 top Chinese university libraries’ websites. The Web 2.0 tools were categorized by generally accepted standards with some adjustment for library practices. Data was collected by accessing these university library websites on two separate occasions during the period of February10 to 20, 2009 by utilizing a checklist of 52 questions.
Findings - Findings – More than two-thirds of the 38 top Chinese university libraries apply one or more kinds of Web 2.0 tools through the basic functions of their websites. Among six types of tools, Catalog 2.0 and RSS are the most common, while IM, Blog, SNS and Wiki are less frequent.
Research limitations/implications - Research limitations –Internal applications that are not publicly accessible contain hidden information that may not be gathered through content analysis since these links usually cannot be found on library websites. It is difficult to get exact information as to the applications of Web 2.0 in these libraries without an interview method in combination to observation.
Originality/value - Originality/value – This study provides an overall picture of Web 2.0 tools developed in top Chinese university libraries, allowing for future evaluation and planning. The implementation of Web 2.0 applications and their constructing pattern is not only indicative of the development of the Chinese digital libraries, but also to their development of digital libraries in the world at large.
