Creation and Use of Online Gateway for School Libraries from Free Web 2.0 Tools

Abstract

The school library is challenged to remain relevant in the 21st century learning environment. With young learners always consulting Google and other free search engines for subject assignment and other information needs and with the underwhelming quality of much web-based information, the school library must find an interesting and effective way to deliver authoritative and relevant information services through online tools. However, effective information services online are most often hosted from subscribed or paid Web 2.0 sites. These online services are capable of interactivity among learners and flexibility for individual schools’ administrative concerns. However, the ability to afford these services is frequently beyond the financial capability of schools from developing countries. The researcher explored the possibility of creating a school library website that serves as a pathfinder to online resources and electronically delivers other library-based school services using free Web 2.0 tools.