Thursday, March 27, 2008

Social Networking & Libraries

It has been interesting exploring and considering social networking sites in a library context. Trying out Facebook was fun, although I was keenly aware of how easily our personal information could become available to others (and, of course, that confidentiality can be an issue for library patrons). I particularly enjoyed the Denver Public Library's eVolver site for teens (http://teens.denverlibrary.org/) and Meredith Farkas' site (http://meredith.wolfwater.com/wordpress/index.php).

While Facebook was fun to use and explore, and easy to figure out, I did have a question at one point and was frustrated that I couldn't find any guidance or help menu.

I can easily see how social networking could fit into a library setting on a smaller scale (and more specialized role) than the eVolver site, too. For instance, a high school's social clubs could use this technology for networking, planning events, etc. Additionally, it could support coursework for a class or study group. In the case of my patrons who, by and large, are not on-campus and have few opportunities for in-person networking, it could provide an easy avenue to connect with colleagues throughout the state.

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