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...