Contrary to how I feel about mass-anything, I think wikis are great! Especially for less "educational" topics like entertainment, crafts, music, anything that peaks our interests. Some subjects lend themselves well to collaboration efforts like wikipedia. For instance, take a look at Star Trek, email, or dating. I didn't know all the different sorts of dating that existed out there. The email entry gives some good tips that others have discovered on their own. And who else but a trekkie would know all the names of each episode, and be able to give a full summary.
Libraries could use this tool as subject guides for those popular questions like "How much is ___ worth?" or "How do I apply for a grant". A wikipedia entry could have sections on websites to visit, books to check out, as well as tips from other people. There could be certain sections open to the public where they could contribute while leaving some sections closed to everyone but staff. I saw several well done wiki entries provided by both public and academic libraries. One had a neat feature which showed if the librarian was online and had a place to instant-message him. He also had a prominent list of FAQs that were well done too. Some libraries, however, I thought would have been better off providing the information in an RSS feed rather than a wiki. Case in point, new book arrivals.
Another use of wikis I thought was great was for events; in particular, the one for ALA 2006 in New Orleans had much information on the area, hotels, personal takes, recommendations... This was a great example of how community members could contribute with the least amount of manipulation.
Another great use was an open wiki (email required) for public library computer class handouts - handouts other librarians had placed up there for open use by fellow librarians. Great idea and a wonderful way to not have to reinvent the wheel!
That's my take on wikis - I admit to being leery to trusting mankind but limited access, or monitors, could help these wiki entries from being manipulated.
PS: The title is sung to the lyrics of Mickey (sung by Toni Basil in this case). Check out all the pop trivia.
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