Library and information professionals are familiar with the social networking technologies referred to collectively as "Web 2.0". Recent discussion in library and information management conferences, symposia and blogs has centred on how Web 2.0 tools are being used to maximise client services and enhance the user experience. What is not so frequently discussed is how they can be used to develop and strengthen professional networks and facilitate knowledge sharing within the industry itself.

In this paper, we show how Web 2.0 technologies have made it possible for a small, specialist and geographically distributed group to ‘punch above its weight’.

Arlis/ANZ (the Arts Libraries Society - Australia and New Zealand) is a small association of arts information professionals. We have embraced a strategic vision to grow, develop and support our member community by taking advantage of Web 2.0 technologies to build a virtual “clubhouse”. This virtual clubhouse is a Web 2.0 meeting place where conversations occur, knowledge is created and shared, and relationships built and strengthened despite geographical distance.

The focus was a redesign of the Society’s web presence, but also incorporated experimental and collaborative use of freely available Web 2.0 tools such as social tagging sites, social networking communities and collaborative authoring software. Although still in its infancy, this Web 2.0-driven initiative has enabled us to capitalise on our unique strength as acknowledged experts in Arts librarianship, and to share this wonderful asset not only amongst the current generations of Arlis/ANZ members, but amongst succeeding generations of arts information professionals.