Saturday, November 16, 2013

Assignment Week #1

There are several different ways that South Dakota libraries are using Facebook.  I looked at several sites including Facebook pages for Brookings Public Library, Britton Public Library, Cozard Memorial Library in Chamberlain, and Wall Community Library.

Most are using it to
1.  post library events and local community events (a great way to partner with your Chamber of Commerce)
2. connect 24/7 with patrons who post reference questions or questions regarding services
3. post pictures of events, new books, and services which help pique interest in followers
4. receive feedback from patrons about services or events
5.  facilitate patrons' posting of book reviews
6.  provide a connection to local jobs available (way to go Project Compass libraries!)
7. provide ideas for other librarians who are looking for new events and programs that may work at their libraries! 

I can see the benefits of Facebook, but am leery about keeping it current and being able to fill it with something on a regular basis.  I would like to do it, but right now, finding the time to maintain it would be a challenge.


6 comments:

On the road! said...

Nice job, Diane. I agree that it does take some time to maintain a library Facebook page and that you should think hard about whether you can maintain it before you start one.

Rhonda H said...

It does take some time to keep up, though right now I am only trying for once a week (not daily...) It is much easier with a bigger staff. Take care

Clueless said...

Thoughtful post, Diane. I'm wondering if one of the teens on your teen board would like to be assigned the task of keeping a Facebook page updated. They could probably do it with little effort. Hmmm.... I've never thought of posting jobs on our Facebook page.

Fabric and Books said...

I discovered while working on another project that one can schedule posts very easily on Facebook--so while you plan your month you can add storytime, TAB meetings, etc. Here are some instructions: https://www.facebook.com/help/389849807718635
You can schedule pictures but not albums.

Nina's Blog said...

I learned something new with Fabric and Books information. What a time saver.

BetsyCat said...

Just the idea of being able to connect with the library 24-7 is a great idea. I agree that Facebook would be of great value to connecting to your patrons. Baby steps...