When I first started thinking about Web 2.0 technologies and the library I was very focused on using these technologies for the purpose of connecting to and engaging with library users. As I proceeded through some of the literature on Web 2.0 and libraries I realized I had been ignoring the potential uses of these technologies for the professional development, collaboration and communication of librarians, not just our users.
Cooke (2011) writes about 2.0 as a way of developing PLNs (personal learning networks) as a means for librarians to continue professional education (CPE):
"With the rapid development of Web 2.0/social software tools, many librarians are supplementing, and even substituting, formal CPE for online tools such as blogs, wikis, and social networking communities" and "they are free, do not require dedicated blocks of time or travel and they offer the potential to create lasting learning communities that foster ongoing professional development" (p. 5).
Meredith Farkas's article in the Sept/Oct 2012 American Libraries demonstrates the power of librarians fully engaging with Web 2.0 technologies for the exchange of professional information and learning. She uses the Library Society of the World on FriendFeed and ALAThinkTank on Facebook as examples of the "bringing passionate and tech-savvy librarians together for mutual support" (p. 19). Farkas, along with four other librarians, have gone so far as to create a free online learning program "designed to teach librarians about social media through experiential and reflective as well as individual and group activities" (p. 19). This is the perfect example of the use of Web 2.0 tools for professional development means/communities that Cooke was describing.
This is not to say that I don't view 2.0 technologies as resources to reach out to and engage with our users. David Lee Kings's article Facebook for Libraries offers many examples of libraries (mainly public libraries) using Facebook with excellent success at engaging with new, and returning, patrons.
But we must remember to not use these tools simply for the sake of using these tools. Farkas (2007) and Mercun and Zumer (2011), have both authored entire chapters dedicated to how to determine whether or not a 2.0 tool is right for our library, as well as guidelines and things to consider for successful implementation. Both chapters how important it is to know your population and recognize that different populations have different needs that will determine which tool is appropriate, if any tool at all.
I followed through your link and read David Lee's article. At the library I work at, we try to form an online prescence with the Teens through facebook and online forums. It has been quite successful with our "our summer reading club" event this year.
ReplyDeleteI especially like his comment that stated
"Give your Facebook community the content they want, and they will become your fans."
I also agree that if we are able to get the word out that the library is no longer a dinasaur but an interactive community, your fans would become advocates for you and your library—not only online, but in person, too.
Hello! Just commenting for LIBR-246.
ReplyDeleteIt is indeed incredibly important that library staff not only adopt new technologies, but make sure that they can stay populated with relevant, quality information, and not just become stagnant and under-used. There's nothing worse than going to an organization's blog, twitter, or FB, and only finding outdated information. The public likes to know its librarians are staying on top of things in the digital-sphere, and if it's not being used, then there's no point in adopting a specific social media platform just for it's own sake.
It's equally important to maintain a positive brand for the library, as well as show a little personality. Patrons love to see their librarians personalities come out, and a little humor goes a long way towards making a positive image of the library brand to the community.