LIS 9763

Change is scary and nothing changes at a faster rate that the internet and web applications.   Just when people get used to one technology, the next one comes out making the first obsolete.  Many libraries are now comfortable with Web 1.0 applications such as e-mail and web-based catalogues.  But they can't rest yet because there is a whole new world of possibility with Web 2.0!
 
This constant push to adopt the latest trend and implement the latest technology can be tiring.  There is never time after the introduction of an application for standards to develop and for users and staff to find their comfort zone before the next change occurs.  There are two important consequences of this fact -- librarians need to manage change so that it does not become overwhelming and librarians need to constantly question the accepted standards.
 
First of all, managing change is a key task for anyone in any type of management.   Casey & Stephens highlight the importance of ensuring that all the major stakeholders are on board with changes that are being made.  In particular, this includes keeping staff in the loop so that fear and panic do not set in.  Communicating clearly your goals for the direction of the library will help the staff understand what you want from them and how they will fit into the picture.  Also, people have more faith when they know that they are receiving up-to-date information and will be more comfortable with the changes.
 
Also, changes to web technologies are revolutionizing the way in which libraries do business.  We cannot assume that the standards that have worked well for us in the past will continue to work in the future.  As Sierra says, it is important to let go of your "sacred cows" when they no longer have relevance.  Each and every decision must be made on its own merit and not based on the traditions that we cling to.  The revolutionary nature of the web means that we must revolutionize our approach to information management.  We have to re-create the standards as we go, being flexible to handle the next change even before the dust has settled on the last one.