A to Z of Social Networking for Libraries

The article A to Z of Social Networking for Libraries provides a 26 point A-Z list of tips for libraries who use or are contemplating using social networking.  These tips are highlight that not only should the social networking tools selected by the library work for the library and staff but that the library is not just jumping on a bandwagon, rather it is serious about connecting with users via this medium.  Some of the advice given include:

B – Blog, this is a great way for you to offer value and content to your library and it has become the standard for libraries to have one.

F – Facebook, having a presence on Facebook with a fan page or a group is a must. 

M-Mobile, more and more of you library’s social networking needs to be able to accessed via mobile devices. 

P-Podcasting, this is a great way to share interviews and valuable audio tips with your library’s audience.

V-Video, whether on Youtube or elsewhere, use video to enhance and engage with your users via social networking.

The National Library of Australia social networking efforts include: 3 blogs, and various podcasts split into 8 broad genres both of which are available via its website and which can be subscribed to via RSS. (A Delicious button is also provided for sharing links to the blog posts); Twitter, Facebook, Delicious, it’s own Youtube channel, and Flickr accounts.  In addition, for internal use only, Yammer (a private social network for companies) is currently being trialled to allow an informal, work related, conversation to happen amongst staff via twitter-like posts.  The Library is also developing mobile applications for ‘finding a library’ and the NLA catalogue.

Whilst the NLA has a presence in all these places demonstrating a strong embrace of the Library 2.0 ethos, it is vital that all these sites are updated regularly with new content so that users are not left questioning the NLAs actual commitment to social networking.  Content not only needs to be frequently added, it also needs to be interesting and relevant to users.  The use of these social networking tools allow the NLA to reach users that may not be able to physically access the Library and takes some of its vast resources to the spaces where users often now first choose to seek the information they require.