Does tagging belong in the library? Does it replace or complement subject headings? Should we encourage or discourage the practice?
Whew! My first response to use of tagging in the library is "loss of control!!" Therefore, I don't think it will ever--or should ever--replace subject headings. But as far as complementing subject headings: YES! Then it becomes one more way for the user to explore avenues of information. Does this inspire intellect, curiosity, and imagination? I think so.
Should we encourage or discourage the practice? Rather than encourage or discourage tagging, I think that librarys should use the practice to enhance library services. This is what LibraryThing does, giving additional ways to search out information. Users familiar with tags will probably find the library a friendlier place when tags appear in our catalog.
No comments:
Post a Comment