My outlook on social networking has changed somewhat since working with the library's teen advisory board. The public library that I currently work for uses social networking to simply list and share event information. We also have a few pictures to illustrate past programs. I love the idea of using social networking to communicate with patrons but I was not aware of the potential.
For instance, we have a Facebook page at the library where I work and I supervise a teen advisory board (TAB) that would like to use it to discuss young adult books, movies, and video games. In addition, they would like to share their writing whether it be fiction or poetry. Facebook is their preferred choice to communicate their ideas and current events. By allowing TAB members to explore social networking to express their skills or to simply communicate using technology.
Thus, there are some resourceful ways to use social networking in a library. By showing students how to do this we can maximize the amount of useful information and knowledge technology can offer. A good example on how a library can use social networking in a valid and resourceful way is Yale's Science Libraries:
http://www.facebook.com/yalescilib#!/yalescilib?sk=wall
Like Yale's Science Libraries Facebook page my public library is able to post information on all current events including classes offered, library news, and programs taking place at the library. Pictures of the library and events are also posted. In addition, you can find information about the library's hours, contact information, and location.
In the 21st century students and patrons are exposed to a digital world that can provide more opportunities to seek and find more information. Social networking is a fun way to learn to become technologically literate and perhaps open the path to exploration, discovery, and creativity.
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