It’s time to get trendy!
Social networking is a trend that has become a primary means of communication for many people, especially the younger generations. Some libraries try to keep people off of social networking sites on library computers, while other libraries are developing tools to better serve their patrons online. Many high schools ban social networking sites on school grounds, so to avoid hypocrisy they tend not to have official Myspace or Facebook profiles. Public and academic libraries are investing in the social networking phase in droves, though, and the well done ones are actually quite popular.
Two of the most popular social networking sites are Facebook and Myspace. While library patrons may not all be on these sites, social networking profiles act as a supplement and a portal to the library’s official website, and can increase a library’s online presence. Library profiles on social networking sites may not inspire library patrons to sign up for Myspace or Facebook, but they can boost the library’s web cred with youth patrons and they can make the online library more accessible.
Because most Facebook pages are only accessible to Facebook users, I will mostly be looking at Myspace pages, which is a shame since Facebook offers more opportunities for libraries to become a daily part of their patrons’ lives. I will be looking at some of the ways in which library profiles on both Facebook and Myspace strive to stay relevant in their online communities.
This blog was created for LIBR 500: Foundations of Information Technology.
cool