Social Networking and Libraries: Going Live!

-

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 new exhibits, collections, and displays. One of the greatest features of social media apps that include a live stream option is commenting in real time. Patrons have the opportunity to tune in from the comfort of their own homes, ask questions, and receive prompt responses. 

Live streaming is just one example of the way social media is revolutionizing libraries and library services. Libraries and social networking go together like peanut butter and jelly!

Lucy Davis 




Sources Cited: Koerber, Jennifer. “Facebook Live from the Library.” Library Journal, vol. 142, no. 8, May 2017, pp. 17–19. EBSCOhost, search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.palomar.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=122836973&site=ehost-live&scope=site.
Image: https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/live-streaming.jpg

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Social Networking and Libraries

-
Image
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...
Read more

Libraries as Social Hubs: Thriving in a Worldwide Pandemic

-
Image
  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...
Read more

Libraries and Student Success (Priscilla S.)

-
Image
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...
Read more