Social networking and libraries -Larisa

Using social media as a tool for a library can be extremely beneficial for the community that the library is serving. Having access to Facebook, or Instagram through the library homepage helps create a connection for community members. With today's digital age a library has to be flexible and remain relevant with the times that are continuously changing. As someone who follows different public libraries from Valley Center to Carlsbad on social media, it is easier for me to find local events that they are hosting for children or the queer community, both of which keep me informed!

In the article, "Social Networking in the Library -- what is it good for?" written by Janet l Balas, goes on to explain how it is important for a library to analyze which form of social media is best to use for the intended audience they are trying to reach. She goes on to discuss how using Facebook is a common form of sociomedical to network with, but why not also use twitter? Using twitter is useful because it in itself is a sense of "microblogging." 

In my opinion, I think using different types across social media can help reach larger audiences such as boomers with Facebook, millennial with Instagram and Gen-Z with twitter. Having a broad selection of ways to announce events, look for volunteers or bring awareness to a topic will only be more advantageous for the library and its patrons of all ages.  

A way libraries also can connect with people is to create a Goodreads account with books that library techs, assistants etc. are all reading so patrons can follow along and see reviews on books that they could also read or add to their personal "TO BE READ" lists. 

want to connect? add me on Goodreads!

 Larisa Elaine - Valley Center, CA (1,381 books) | Goodreads

Balas JL. (2010). Online treasures. Social networking in the library -- what is it good for? Computers in Libraries, 30(7), 34.