Facebook and Twitter are two forms of social media that
is used to communicate and share information with different people from all
over the world. I am connected to Facebook and Twitter but I’ve always been
partial to Facebook because I like reading funny stories my friends share and connecting
with people I haven’t seen in years. I found my 6th grade pen pal on
Facebook! Twitter only allows so many characters so you have to get right to the
point. My first experience with Twitter was pretty frustrating. I typed a
message and couldn’t figure out why it wouldn’t send. I finally figured out
that I had written too many words. J
But I must admit that I am accessing Twitter more often because I see the
benefits of networking with like-minded credible people who are willing to
share.
I read “Social Media in Secondary School Settings” and I
definitely agree with the concern of privacy and sharing personal information
online especially as it relates to students. They are not always aware or vigilant
when it comes to inviting “friends” to their page. Everyone does not have your
best interest at heart and will take advantage of your trust. But, when used
the correct way, students can use social media in a positive way in an
educational environment to enhance their learning.
Facebook allows for libraries to provide a view of what’s
going on in there. I visited Roosevelt-Wilson
Library and it shared updates on current events, shared information about the
public library and how students who have a library card can access e-books at
home. It showcased special programs like dogs coming to visit while students
read to them. You also have to be creative in how you share information to get
others to notice. Moore Elementary Library encouraged readers to “pop in” and
check out a good book because of National Popcorn Day! Facebook is a good way
to connect with people in real time. You can also follow groups that can be of
interest to the library and repost information relevant to your library. It is
an excellent way to promote good things that are happening and share it with
parents, students and other stakeholders. The down side to that is everyone
does not have access which limits who is able to view your page.
Facebook - Roosevelt-Wilson School Library
Facebook - Moore Elementary Library
Kathy Schrock - @kathyschrock
Jim Lerman @jimlerman
I also believe having a school library Facebook page would be beneficial in promoting our school library. The trick here is to find creative ways to "hook" our followers into wanting to know more about our program. In several of the pages I visited, I noticed very few likes and comments. As a librarian, I wouldn't want to spend time updating the account and not receive any feedback.
ReplyDeleteI think if school librarians are going to put their libraries on social media, they have to take the time to update it continuously. By doing so, parents and students will be more likely to revisit these sites.
ReplyDeleteI liked the Roosevelt-Wilson Elementary School posting that you pictured. It is so much more useful to tell people why a new technology or opportunity is good. It is great to see a post with directions, why you will like it and the benefits.
ReplyDeleteWell, Stacy, you definitely got more out of FaceBook than I did. I don't know if I had to scroll farther down in order to find actual libraries. I agree that FaceBook and Twitter are a great asset for library advocacy. I like Twitter more and really enjoyed reading the tweets of the given educational leaders.
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting pictures! I'm a visual learner. It reminds me that I need to probably do the same on my blog.
ReplyDeleteHow fun! Your embeds were very helpful, thank you.
ReplyDeleteI have also seen many libraries that use Facebook to promote their libraries and share any ideas for lessons they have done. This is an amazing tool but agree that if you are going to use it, keep your page updated.
ReplyDeleteI have also seen many libraries that use Facebook to promote their libraries and share any ideas for lessons they have done. This is an amazing tool but agree that if you are going to use it, keep your page updated.
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