ACRL Conference in Seattle: programs on assessing usage of Libguides and 2.0

A couple of weeks ago I attended my first ACRL national conference. It was great being in Seattle again -- cool yet sunny the first two days, then rainy, and a little snow!

I took the most notes for a panel discussion about using improv in research instruction (UCLA librarians hired an acting coach). But Libguides and Web 2.0 was all over the program. Two short paper presentations actually got into an assessment of usage. The presentations were back to back, and were the only standing-room only (literally) events I attend.

1. Do the Outcomes Justify the Buzz?: An Assessment of LibGuides at Cornell University and Princeton University

"This study goes beyond the “”2.0″” dogma to empirically determine if LibGuides lives up to its publicity:

• Critically examine LibGuides assessment results in order to comprehend patterns of user engagement with “”Web 2.0″” features for teaching, learning and research
• Discuss Libguides survey data in order to make well informed decisions about the purchase, development, training for, and roll-out of new library systems
• Observe guide creation and use patterns at Princeton and Cornell in order to understand what guide types (Course-Specific vs. Subject-Specific) are in highest demand in “”Library 2.0″”, and how to target publicity and discovery appropriate"

In general, the presenters provided data that web 2.0 tools in Libguides were lightly used except when required by the professor. Libraries at the two schools tended not to use the 2.0 tools in favor of using the Libguides to post links and locations of library resources.

2. If You Build It, Will They Care? Tracking Student Receptivity to Emerging Library Technologies

"The Library 2.0 movement has fostered extensive technological experimentation among academic librarians. Many question a prescriptive approach to such tech-based innovation, arguing that a user-centered focus results in more successful services. This paper presents findings of comprehensive research into student technology adoption and library usage patterns at Ohio University. "

Older patrons tended to prefer wikis, Second Life, blogs, and del.ici.ous.
Younger students tender to prefer Myspace, texting, IM, Youtube, and Facebook.
Twitter use was 0.2-0.3% for students between 18-22 years old. 23-26 years old reported 0.7% usage.