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Essay / Effective Use of Social Media in Public Libraries
IntroductionIn the age of technology and the idea that information must be obtained at lightning speed, libraries have realized that they must apply social media applications to improve their overall experience for the community in the public library sector. Gone are the days when the librarian hid behind the service counter or moved around with a book cart. To secure funding, engage the public, and perhaps a new donor, librarians are now tasked with developing, creating, and monitoring various forms of social media. These media can be Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest. Anyone can create one of these accounts, but it takes planning, performance, and consistent follow-through to use these methods effectively, appropriately, and thoughtfully. A 2010 study by the Pew Research Center concluded that more than 85% of adults had an account. mobile phones and desktop computers were more popular in the age group between 35 and 65 Abram, S. (2014). This is important because libraries need to develop exciting and innovative strategies to engage patrons of all ages with their social media. A trend I have observed over the past few months in my area of residence was that library hours were reduced and closed on Sundays. For this reason, my local branch designed an interactive menu for patrons, which included “Ask the Librarian.” This tab can be used during both opening and closing hours with a response time of 24 hours. I found this both exciting and forward-thinking on the part of the library. This demonstrates that even when librarians are asked to do more with less, the creation of a simple but useful social media tool has opened up a new form of communication for the community...... middle of paper ... ... Digital branch. Library Technology Reports, 48(6), 12-15Silverman, K. (2013). Connecting authors to readers through the school library. Knowledge Quest, 41(5), 26-29 Ahmed, N, Edwards Johnson, A., Antell and & Strothmann, M. (2013) Should Librarians Befriend Their Patrons? Reference and User Services Quarterly, 53(1), 9-12Enders, N. and Wineland, H. (2012). Write a social media policy for your library. Kentucky Libraries, 76(1), 16-19. Dowd, N. (May 7, 2013). Social media: Libraries publish posts, but does anyone listen to them? Library Journal. Retrieved October 19, 2013 from http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2013/05/marketing/social-media-libraries-are-posting-but-is-anyone-listening/Abram, S. (2014). Pew: generations and their gadgets. New – Stephen’s Lighthouse. Accessed December 6, 2013, from http://stephenslighthouse.com/2011/02/07/pew-Generations-and-their-gadgets/