Third generation of the Web: libraries, librarians and Web 3.0

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to explain the historic development of Web from the first generation to the second generation and now to the upcoming, third generation of the Web. It describes the importance of Web 3.0 and its other sub-functions to the librarians and their importance in the libraries. The basic purpose of this study is to give librarians an insight about the upcoming technologies. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is designed as an explanatory study using historic and literature search techniques, and is presented in an essay format containing the brief history of web, its current and coming technologies and its advantages and disadvantages. Findings – The finding and results indicate how the Web was designed into its current form. Findings show that at the next level, the interactions will become three ways. The robotics, artificial intelligence and semantic systems will help human in solving their queries. Research limitations/implications – The Web is spreading while new applications and technologies are inventing every day. This research may not be containing all the Web 3.0 applications, advantages and drawbacks. Practical implications – This paper includes the details of the Web applications that are used in Web 3.0. This article not only gives an insight to the Web applications related to the libraries but also indicates the advantages and drawbacks. Originality/value – This paper points out some very important applications to be used in the libraries in Web 3.0 environment, while a consideration of advantages and drawbacks makes this research more valuable for the librarians.