Role of web 2.0 tools in meeting information needs of users amidst COVID-19 pandemic

The unprecedented pandemic has completely changed the information access patterns during covid-19 pandemic. Libraries have experienced a paradigm shift in embracing modern technologies in order to meet information needs of users virtually. The emergence of web technologies has significantly impacted the academic sector in a positive manner. Several web based applications such as wikis, blogs, social networking platforms have transformed into a fully interactive platform and allow everyone to collaborate, communicate, create and share knowledge. Emerging web technologies and their incorporation in the higher education framework act as a boon for research and development. The popularity of web has been growing very fast, and has experienced a shift towards more collaborative and people driven applications also known as web 2.0. The web is expanding swiftly followed by growth in the number of users. Web is a platform that provides potential for convergence and unification of resources; it has been transforming the way we share resources, seek and obtain information and is now an indispensable tool to meet user needs. This paper reflects the role of web 2.0 technologies for transforming academic libraries and the entire information exchange architecture.