This is a valuable introduction to any library with special or cultural heritage collections seeking to reach out to users via these new technologies.

ARBAonline

Of all library programs, the Special Collections department might seem the least likely to jump onto the 2.0 bandwagon. Not so says Beth M. Whittaker and Lynne M. Thomas in Special Collections. . . . They conducted a survey among 'cultural heritage professionals' and discovered that, despite concern that new technologies are a distraction, many in the field are already finding ways in which Web 2.0 supports the traditional mission to collect and preserve.

American Libraries

This is not a how-to manual for working with digital records but instead provides a good conceptual overview of the impact these applications have on special collections. Whittaker and Thomas partner here to promote the use of Web 2.0 applications and technologies within the cultural heritage communities of libraries, archives, and museums. The work provides insight on and examples of how institutions can use a wide variety of 2.0 applications for internal work processes and to promote their collections to a wider public. Chapters devoted to the opportunities and challenges these technologies present to collection description and access, preservation, copyright, and use are particularly thought-provoking. . . . Verdict: Recommended as professional literature for special collections professionals.

Library Journal

Whittaker and Thomas present collection and archives professionals with an examination of the use of Web 2.0 applications and related technologies in the creation, promotion, and management of special collections resources,
particularly as a strategy for reaching new audiences. The text incorporates findings from 300-plus responses to a survey gauging the knowledge of and interest in Web 2.0 applications among cultural heritage professionals. The authors discuss the use of specific applications—wikis, blogs, social networking, photo-sharing sites—as a gateway to special collections material, and examine how these technologies may affect digitization projects, preservation of born-digital materials, and funding agency response.

Reference & Research Book News

well-organised and engaging book will have serious credibility with specialised practitioners.

The Australian Library Journal