LT130 Spring: Libraries and Social Media

For me personally, I have always seen Libraries as a perfect location to socially gather (obviously following the library's rules) for as long as I can remember. I'd always be the one suggesting to meet up in a library. A library has many roles, and everyone uses a library for completely different reasons. A library provides materials for patrons to use, but the building itself could also be used. I have heard of libraries taking advantage of also being a social gathering spot to make clubs and events for every age group and attract people.  One example is the San Diego Public Library has spots around their library that are for teenagers only. They have even made clubs and programs that are only for teenagers. One event is their "Summer Reading Teen Lock-In Party" where teens go after library operating hours to socialize, get free dinner, dancing, crafts, video games, movies, and more! Due to recent events, I know libraries have become less of a location to gather aro...

Social networks play an important role in a library setting. They can enhance the professional skills of library staff, and be used to promote library services. Using social networks is probably something a librarian 100 years ago would have never thought of. Social media is adapting on a daily and one of the biggest changes that have happened to this world, though there are a lot of positives and negatives when it comes to using social networks in a library.  Using social networks can help build a library image and modernize the library. Social media can be used to promote events and provide information to everyone in a quicker and easier way, and if we're talking time, you save so much time using social media to get your message across.  "Social media is putting a great impact on libraries. LIS professionals are getting familiar with social media to create a flexible environment to reach potential library users. Social media is putting a massive impact on libraries and infor...

 There is a huge homeless population in the US and it has led them to use libraries as a last-resort refuge. I could only tell that it is nearly impossible to find a place that will safely take you in for a small period of time.  The IFLA created International Guidelines for libraries that want to address the topic of homelessness in their communities. Libraries should follow their guidelines because "libraries can provide education to the housed community members regarding the lives of those who are experiencing homelessness. Stereotypes, prejudice, and stigmatizing attitudes can create barriers between those who are housed and those who are not, and these negative attitudes can also affect library services, policies, and resources." Some things to consider when taking a person into your library is that everyone has gone through different experiences to get to the situation they are in but they should all be treated equally.  Some of the library services we can offer tha...

Libraries have a huge impact on students' success. Academic Libraries especially have that impact because students see libraries as a valuable space for services, including nonacademic services. In fall 2018, the Community College Libraries and Academic Support for Student Success surveyed 10,844 students across seven community colleges to assess the value of and demand for proposed services designed to address students’ expressed goals, challenges, and needs. Some of the key pieces of information they got from these surveys to assist their students are: Student needs are academic needs.  Students view college both as a means to an end and as having intrinsic value in and of itself.  Not all students struggle equally or desire the same support services.   The library, academic advising office, and tutoring or writing center are highly valued as service providers in addressing unmet needs.   Students would highly value services to address both their curricul...

We all remember those trips to the library in elementary school. Perhaps we sat on the carpet, listened to a story and had a quick lesson about the Dewey Decimal System. It’s likely the library was never visited again after elementary school, except to check out textbooks. Fortunately, school libraries are adapting to new technology and recognizing the need for a new approach to assisting students in the library: teaching information literacy.  Information literacy is absolutely crucial to our students in the K-12 school system. With new technology comes new questionable resources on the internet. Students need to be taught how to differentiate between what is opinion and what is fact, and how to find reputable sources for research and assignments. This is important in not only K-12 schooling, but higher education as well.  Libraries have begun providing quality classes, activities, and programs that are focused on information literacy. In the article “ Flipping Library Inform...

Public libraries are constantly finding ways to support their communities- a big factor is homeless outreach! Libraries are often the only place that the homeless can feel safe. Due to this, staff are constantly trying to find ways to support this population by providing programs and resources. Libraries are crucial in helping these individuals get back on their feet!  The article “ Boston PL Serves Homeless Thru Pandemic ” is an excellent example of how public libraries serve their homeless communities. Ally Dowds writes about the ways in which the Boston Public Library supported the homeless during the global pandemic. BPL loaned iPads to shelters and WiFi hotspots to recovery and treatment programs. In addition, they partnered with local bookstores to provide brand new books to nonprofits focusing on homeless outreach.  It’s stories like this that truly convey the importance of libraries, and the amazing work they do to support their communities in times of need! Libraries ...

Utilizing libraries as a tool for student success is hardly a new concept. Students have always been encouraged to use the space, resources, and materials offered by local library systems, whether it being an academic, school, or public library, student success can be ensured through thoughtful application of space and by outreaching to students.  The concept of student outreach is important to consider when talking about how the library can benefit students and encourage academic achievement. Collaborating with educators I think is fundamental. When I was taking course at MSJC, some of my classes had what was called an SI (Supplemental Instruction) program for courses that were known to be particularly challenging. This program entailed peer review, peer tutoring, collaboration with the instructor, and group sessions in the library. It did not rely on one method for success, but rather used every tool in toolbox. Group sessions were necessary for this program to work, it was essen...

Social hub, or a designated area to encourage social aggregation, is often associated with destinations such as restaurants, bars, movie theaters, shopping malls, etc. Throughout time, libraries have notoriously played a pivotal role in society by providing services and resources aimed to enrich communities, however, it is in the article, Librarians as Community Ambassadors , where the author, Hinze, lays out the framework of the library’s role. Which is to:  • Serve as community center or community hub,  • Provide meeting spaces, maker spaces, job assistance  • Support literacy development  • Support social service needs of all ages.  By these standards, the function of the library is essentially, and inherently a social hub. The fundamental advantages of libraries go beyond providing physical resources such as books and periodicals but establishing a place to freely connect with one’s local community. The congregation of people into a space, such as a library,...

Social networking and the heavily increased use of social media by establishments in the last decade has been astonishing to see. In the year 2021, not having a social media presence is generally stranger than the alternative. What do you mean you don’t have an Instagram? How do you stay connected without a Twitter? You DON’T have a TikTok? Are all things I’ve heard before. Society expects every single individual to be connected through the in-vogue social media platforms, so why wouldn’t McDonalds have a twitter? Or a small business a TikTok? Or your local library an Instagram?  To put it into perspective, and according to the article, Likes, Comments, Views A Content Analysis of Academic Library Instagram Posts , “Since its inception in 2010, Instagram’s number of account holders has been steadily increasing. By 2019, more than one billion user accounts were active each month, making it the third most popular social media network in the world, and the Pew Research Center has repo...

To establish a foundation of understand on the topic of homelessness, specifically homelessness in America, it’s important to speak as factually as possible about this population of people. Public libraries are increasingly serving these individuals for any number of reasons, but its libraries’ ethical duty to uphold to the values of public service, as homelessness becomes more severe within communities across the country.  There are several different types of homelessness. Most people that find themselves homeless are those that are classified as either transitionally homeless or episodically homeless. Transitional homelessness occurs when an individual is met with a circumstance that results in temporary loss of shelter, a major life change or catastrophic event, can result in transitional homelessness. Episodic homelessness results when a person experiences a series of transitional homelessness within a year, often affecting individuals with health issues or addiction. Episodic...

It’s happening! Social media has absolutely taken over. Libraries have recognized this too, and many jumped on the train before it left the station. Currently, libraries all over the country have taken the initiative to create those Instagram accounts, open those Facebook pages, and tweet those tweets. In a world of social network domination, libraries are making their mark.  During the worldwide pandemic, libraries relied heavily on social media to advertise resources and digital programs. Without a physical library building, social media became an essential tool to get the word out! Live streaming is currently trending, and libraries are reaping the benefits from this new fad.  In the article “ Facebook Live from the Library ,” Rob Banks and David Lee King discuss libraries in the US that take advantage of this new form of tech. Library staff have used Facebook live as an outlet to launch Q&A sessions with patrons, introduce new books and events, and even give tours of n...

  The public libraries are a safe haven for all, including those who are homeless. Having access to the programs and resources at the library can be crucial for those who are having housing difficulties. Many libraries are even offering specific programs that are targeted to help those who are homeless. They give assistance with those who need help finding shelter/ housing, food, work assistance, and social service assistance. Some libraries are even hiring social workers in the library specifically to assist the homeless. “Enter Leah Esguerra, the nation’s first full time library Psychiatric social worker” (Trokyna).   Esguerra was hired by the San Francisco library in 2009 because of the high rate of homelessness in the city. The California state library website has the California homeless youth project. This project allows the younger generation to go the policy table and include them in the discussion about how to find ways to help those in need. It focuses on those who ar...

  Social networking is something many participate and benefit from. Libraries benefit from doing simple social networking. Facebook, Instagram, and twitter are some examples that a library can use to easily advertise their services and activities. There are a few libraries I follow online and have noticed more postings since the pandemic. There were many simple social media posts where a simple response in the comments is all that is needed. For example, a post asking what the first book you read that changed your perspective on the world, is a great way to find great recommendations by browsing through Instagram. On Shakespeare’s birthday my local library posted a picture with a fun fact attached and asked their followers to share their favorite quote from him. These types of interactions open the window up to have conversations with others in the community. “The social media landscape continues to expand, as do the methods for mobile accessibility, and libraries would do well to...

  The library is abundant with resources to help a student succeed. I have always used the libraries resources as a student and still do. Like many others, in high school I did not have internet or printer access, so I spent many hours doing schoolwork there. I felt fortunate to have this free resource at my disposal. Going back to college after over 10 years was overwhelming but I soon realized how much help I would have at my disposal through the library. Both of my school’s library has extensive databases I could use and easily find resources and data. My local library has live homework help, college and career information, and practice tests from learning express library. Another valuable resource some patrons do not see is the librarians themselves. The librarians are a fountain of information and if they cannot help you, they usually can point you in the right direction. “One- on- one or small- group reference and research assistance with a librarian enhances academic success...

The library may not seem like a place to go to be social. Many perceive the library as a boring, quiet place when, the library is full of social activities. In the past few years, many libraries are placing focus on how to bring more activities in the library that are for all ages. The library is not just there for books and information. they are there to offer a fun experience you can share with others in the community. “… They are inclusive gathering spaces that make irreplaceable contributions to communities through resources services and engagement. These community hubs fulfill many diverse requirements” (Envisioning). My local library offers books clubs and workshops for adults. They also have an extensive number of activities for children including a Storytime/ puppet room. Other libraries have a youth room specifically designed for teen to have a safe place to be social. Unfortunately, libraries have had to drastically change how they can be social during this pandemic. Vi...

  Yes, I’m sure you’ve heard it. There seems to be a rumor floating around that libraries are becoming obsolete due to the continual advancement of technology. This is simply not true! Now, more than ever, libraries are becoming digital “hubs” of online interaction and expansion of knowledge. Communities are engaging with one another in ways that are astoundingly simple- logging on in the comfort of their own home. Through the years, there have been many attempts to bring community members together- through classes, outreach events, etc. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has made digital resources more streamlined and accessible than ever before.  In the article “ Beyond Coping: Librarians Stepping Up to Meet Community Needs During the Pandemic ,” Dave Shumaker discusses how libraries used social media as a way to advertise free WiFi programs for those without internet access. In addition to this, many libraries came up with other innovative ways to provide unity and community re...

Blogger: Kristin Krahmer Libraries and fostering student success go hand-in-hand. In January 2002, the Library Research Service (LRS) released studies in AL, PN, and CO showing that students in schools with sufficient library collections, qualified library personnel and strong collaboration with teachers perform better on standardized tests. Results showed that schools with well-developed library media programs average 10 to 18 percent higher reading scores. Also, when library media staff collaborate with teachers, average reading scores increase by 8 to 21 present (Pascopella). School and academic libraries constantly strive to help students achieve success. Academic library spaces also contribute to student success. Today’s academic librarians “understand and appreciate that spaces not only inspire creativity, reflection, exploration, and innovation, but also [greatly] impact [student] learning (Spencer). References: Pascopella, Angela. "Today's media specialist: tra...

Blogger: Kristin Krahmer Public libraries have long been associated with providing services to all patrons, including people that are struggling and find themselves homeless. For example, at the Jacksonville Public Library in IL, in January of 2020, there was an increase in the number of homeless patrons, so the staff decided to partner with the Illinois College sociology department to study how the library could best serve and provide resources “for low-income and housing-insecure folks” (Jacksonville Journal-Courier). All patrons are welcome to stay inside the library as long as all policies are being followed - the library is a welcoming space for all. There is computer access, printer access, and wireless internet. ALso, each semester, the Jacksonville Public Library brings in sociology interns from local MacMurray College to offer library patrons help searching and applying for employment, unemployment benefits, social security benefits, and if needed, emotional support. An...

Blogger: Kristin Krahmer Libraries use online social networking to connect people, establish and grow virtual communities, and market the library services that will benefit patrons. For students, the connection between social networking and libraries comes via school libraries, academic libraries, and teen services that are available at public libraries. In May, 2011, students surveyed in a National School Board Association study, stated that 96% with online access reported using social networking and half said they use it to discuss and get help with homework (Bumgardner). Libraries use social networking to market their library services, promote their activities, and reach patrons and convenience them to believe that there is a benefit to the services that the library offers (Kalam). Some of the most popular online methods that libraries (school, academic, and public) use for social media channels are Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Each of these social net...

Blogger: Kristin Krahmer Libraries as social hubs have been a concept as long as I can remember. To me, the library, school or public, has always been a magical place to go for a variety of things - a place to find peace, a quiet place to study, a place to meet like-minded people, a place for workshops and free programs. Whether libraries are big or small, there really is something for everyone. A great example of a library becoming a social hub is in College Park, WA, residents decided to fill a void for a local branch in their county library system, and started their own. A small community library was born with 800 donated books and a completely voluntary staff. The collection has grown to more than 10,000 books and there are many services offered - storytimes for children, book discussion groups, a photo club, a film series group, computers and computer classes, arts and crafts workshops, a knitting group, and fun summer reading programs. Since then, the city and small gra...

   Confession time: I didn't use the library much when I was going to school as a youngster. It wasn't something that was driven home to me as important, and on top of that, I thought libraries were boring (I was a dumb kid, what can I say). But thankfully, age, experience, and marrying a librarian have shown me the error of my ways. I now believe that libraries are an essential part of the learning experience, and frankly, one that I wish I went through when I was younger; I think it would have made me a better student.    Using libraries to study teaches you certain skills and habits that set you up better for advanced grades, right into college. As this article from librarian Jim Neal states, school libraries, and i think this goes for public libraries too, help you develop useful skills that you carry for life: "We all want students who know how to look for information, evaluate sources, organize research results, present ideas and conclusions, and document their...

   If I  look around my apartment, I'll see a kitchen full of food, a coffee maker, heating and AC, a warm bed, indoor plumbing, a working bathroom, wifi, a computer, several electrical outlets, a closet full of clothing, all housed under a roof. You probably have all of that too. It's no big deal for us, right? Of course I have all all of these things. Well, not everyone does; In fact, we're pretty darned fortunate.   There are a sizable amount of fellow citizens (and counting) that aren't as privileged. While we have everything we need in a private space to call our own, so many have to get those things elsewhere; be it a coffee shop, a museum, a community center, a church, or, of most interest to us in this space, a public library. To the homeless community, the library is more than just books, though it's of course that as well. It's also a place of community, a place to go to the bathroom, a place to wash their hands (especially important in a pandemic), a ...

   Social media has been a part of our lives for at least the last seventeen years, when Myspace launched in 2004. Since then, social networking has become a part of most aspects of business and culture in some form or another; it's especially become a valuable tool in advertising. The general thought in academia is that social media doesn't have much educational value, and certainly you can't use it as a tool for LEARNING!  This guide  from YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association) says otherwise; it has many great ideas on how to integrate social media and networking into school lessons, school libraries, and public libraries.  One idea that I especially liked was one where you create a Facebook account as a historical figure: "Students studying a specific period in history create a fake Facebook wall as a way to write content from the perspective of a historical figure. While working on their wall, students have the chance to talk about how to post on ...

 Picture a Starbucks: you walk in, what do you see? Some chairs, some tables, maybe a newspaper, or a magazine, or three. They usually offer free wifi, and some of them will even have a community bulletin board posted on one of the walls. Clearly, Starbucks stores from coast to coast strive to be seen as a "community hub." Or, as the cynic may say, they try to make a cozy, safe place for locals to come in, read the paper, or do their homework because the longer you're there, the more likely you'll buy something. By the way, when I described Starbucks, did't that sort of sound like a library, but without the "buy something" part?  Indeed, public libraries have long been an essential hub for the community, open to any and all. They're a place for children's activities, to use the internet, to go to workshops, have book clubs, do homework or any kind of research, read and check out literature, or simply just to hang out, and more. Libraries are a gr...