SoCal Libraries Social Media: Social Networking in the Age of Social Media

Social Networking in the Age of Social Media

Post by Contributor: Meghan Roth

Today's libraries are dynamic hubs and savvy players in the world of social networking. Far from being relics of the past, libraries are using social media to connect with their communities and expand their reach to offer a whole new level of engagement.

For those who can't always make it through the doors, social networking bridges the gap. Livestreamed author talks and workshops bring the library experience to a wider audience, breaking down geographical barriers. Online resources, e-book platforms, and digital databases are promoted and explained through social media content. This ensures everyone has access to the library's wealth of information, regardless of their physical location.

Social media also allows libraries to tailor their outreach. Targeted campaigns can promote teen programs on TikTok or highlight senior-friendly tech workshops on Facebook. This personalized approach ensures that the library remains relevant and engaging for all segments of the community, meeting them where they already are online.

But it's not just about broadcasting information. Libraries are embracing the interactive nature of social media. They run polls to choose the next community read, host virtual Q&A sessions with authors, and create engaging online challenges that encourage both digital and in-person participation. Patrons share their library hauls, event snapshots, and reading recommendations, creating a vibrant online community that increases the library's social presence.

Social networking also fosters a sense of community ownership. When patrons share their positive library experiences online, they become advocates, spreading the word about the valuable resources and services available. This peer-to-peer promotion can be far more impactful than traditional marketing efforts.

Social media has become an essential tool for modern libraries, transforming them into comprehensive social networking hubs. It's not just about borrowing books anymore; it's about connecting with neighbors, discovering new interests, learning new skills, and being part of a thriving community. So, give your local library a follow – you might be surprised by the vibrant online community waiting to welcome you.

The ALA also has many resources available for librarians that want to use social media as an engagement tool, which are linked below:

Sources:

(Doctor, K, 2022.) The Power of Libraries and Social Media. SJSC. Retrieved April 10, 2025, from https://ischool.sjsu.edu/istudent-blog/power-libraries-and-social-media

(n.d.). Resources for Librarians about Online Social Networking. Young Adult Library Services Association. Retrieved April 10, 2025, from https://www.ala.org/yalsa/guidelines/socialnetworking

(2025, January 8). Social Media. LibGuides. Retrieved April 10, 2025, from https://library-nd.libguides.com/publib/socialmedia

Google. (2025). Gemini (2.0 Flash) [Formatting Model]. https://gemini.google.com/ Updated April 1, 2025.