# 16 About Wikis

I am amazed at the number of ways in which libraries and other organizations are using wikis. For example LitWiki at Ohio University has links to sites that help researchers. A wiki for high school students in a certain class, perhaps geometry, could find help and understanding through collaboration with fellow students. Libraries are using wikis for community information guides as well as sites for Reader’s Advisory. Patrons can add items about their club’s upcoming events, a review of a book they enjoyed, or information about a fundraiser for a local church.
A wiki for staff members working on a group project can use a wiki for discussion instead of adding to the mass of emails that might be overlooked. Staff manuals can be quickly and easily revised when new situations arise.
Patrons could utilize a wiki to express what they like or dislike about the library. This could help management and staff to become more sensitive to patrons’ wishes and even bring about changes in policy.
As they say, the uses are limited only by the imagination.