#22 Social Networking

This was a really interesting assignment because there was a lot of good informtion and no clear answer as to how libraries can use social networking software. Some lilbraries feel that using social networking software such as Facebook makes their library seem "cool in the public eye" and it provides another place for exchange with their Libraries. Some libraries, especially public ones, have Facebook pages.

For example, the Worthington Public Library uses their Facebook page to advertise their services for children. They are ar "one stop shop for your child's entertainment and educational needs." They also use facebook to promote the library as a community center and add book reviews. They have almost 366 friends.

A few libraries area also using Twitter to promote their libraries. Some larger libraries are using Flickr to show pictures and historic items in their collections.

While social networking sites offer some opportunity for libraries, it's not clear to all that this is a good thing. Some libraries won't use the sites because they think they're too new or too trendy. Some even ban the use of the these sites in their libraries.

There are some rules for Libraries who use social networking. They should pick only one or two types of sites to use. Too many library sites can confuse users and also cause a drain on the staff.
Also, there is a warning not to anger social networking site users. If they are displeased about something, they can spread the work quickly and cause damage to the library's reputation. It also takes time to keep the information updated.

A recent University of Michigan survey showed that social networking users don't want a Library presence. They feel they already have sufficient ways to contact the library and don't need another one. Also they resent the presence on a social "fun" site.

I think it would be foolish for Libraries to totally ignore the possibilities of social networking sites to inform the public about what they have to offer. However, libraries can't do everything and staff members have a lot of responsibilities. Libraries will have to decide if social networking site updating is the way to use taxed staff resources or if that time could be better spent elsewhere.