Libraries on Facebook! What in the World?

Libraries Using Facebook!

Of course many times it may be hard to venture in to uncharted territory when it comes to technology. Some of us may be what some may call “technology immigrants.” However, regardless of our comfort zones, as librarians we must be prepared to be the leaders in technology at their respective campus. We cannot be afraid of technology. I seem to be speaking to myself more than anyone, I know.


Keeping students, parents, teachers and administrators informed about what is going on in your library is perhaps the most common use of Facebook. After viewing several school library Facebook pages, I found that the common reason for using Facebook was to communicate with students using a more familiar communication highway. The fact of the matter is that our students are technology natives. They have known how to use technology since they were little bitty. IF the librarian cannot become an expert in this ever changing world of technology THEN we are in danger of becoming dispensable. YIKES!

The following are what some school libraries are posting on their Facebook pages:

Book Suggestion:

Post by Regis Jesuit High School Libraries.

Tutorial:

Post by West De Pere School District Libraries.

Survey:

Post by Austin ISD School Libraries.

As you can notice these libraries are doing their best to communicate with students, but there seems to be only a few comments or likes which give us the impression that students might not be taking advantage of this resource yet. :( But we will keep trying. :)

Some ADVANTAGES of using Facebook include: 
-Sharing news and events 
-Sharing the Genre of the Month
-Sharing the Dewey Number of the Week
- Posting pictures of library shelves
- Posting student surveys to acquire information on how to improve library program
-hyperlinks to online books to read
-famous quotes and thought provoking quotes for students to respond to
-pictures of award winning authors that are coming to the area
- Sharing links to new apps to use including tutorials
- Lists of New Books 

Although we'd like to think that once we get the hang of using technology to serve our patrons better, our library will be set, we must consider what could happen if the Facebook Page is not maintained by the librarian. 

Some DISADVANTAGES of using Facebook include:
-inappropriate student responses
-concerns on teacher-student social networking policies

Although I  believe there seem to be more advantages than disadvantages, it is important to consider these and receive the support from administrators before using this tool. Considering district policies is a must before initiating this idea.