What will I learn?
- Understand what Social Networking is all about
- Explore ways in which Social Netwoking can be applied in libraries
Watch this
Read this
What is Social Networking?
Any conversation or article about Web 2.0 will without doubt stress the experience of the Web for the user. As well as the vehicle for converting the user’s experience from that of a lone, inactive viewer (as in what might be called Web 1.0) to one of rich, dynamic content and extensive, interactive participation is social networking.
Another way of looking at “social networks” is that they primarily exist to help people keep in touch professionally or personally. Social networkings sites provide users the freedom to add pictures, slideshows, video and audio excerpts, give virtual gifts and even custom designs (look and feel).
Social Networking in Libraries
With over 274,000,000 people using social networking sites (2007), libraries should be “going where the users are”! According to OCLC (2006) 89% of College students start an information searchwith a search engine… only 4% start with a library web site or database! 18.1
Many libraries worldwide are using social network sites to
- Speak the language of their patrons/clients
- Show them the library
- Assess library functions, through surveys and focus groups
- Repackage information
- Promote events
- Promote outreach - extend the support of the library beyond the physical walls
- Educating patrons
Explore this
Explore some of these library social networking ideas, and note the difference in look and functionality from their usual library web pages:
Hennepin County Public Library (note the embedded catalog search box)
http://www.myspace.com/libraryloftLibraries and Librarians Group on Flickr
http://www.flickr.com/groups/librariesandlibrariansAn index of library MySpace profiles oriented towards teen patrons
Gaming Learning Libraries - using Ning
What do I have to do?
- Post your comments on these or other social networking sites you can find.
- Think about (and post your ideas) about how Social Networking could be used in your library. Are there impediments to using Social Networking where you are?
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