Thing #16: Wiki, Wiki, Wiki

Judging from these postings, wikis are a popular tool being considered by libraries. However, it would seem that in their purest form, with open editing and unfettered contribution, wikis would be very problematic in a library setting. Mischief, both silly and serious, and inaccuracies are hardly unknown to that mother of all wikis, Wikipedia. Some examples are posted at http://www.wikipedia-watch.org/vandals.html. Most users already know, or ought to be told, that while wikipedia is a valuable resource, it is unreliable and typically unacceptable in schools and colleges as a legitimate reference. In light of similar possible problems, any wiki that a public library sets up or sponsors would need close oversight. And while a link from the library's home page to a community wiki could be useful, as could wiki subject guides, library wikis might work best for internal collaborative staff efforts like projects and program development. There, the wiki format would be a great advance over current practices.