Social Media and the Library

Social media sites are very popular in society. Many people have accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, YouTube, or accounts on multiple sites. Individual people are not the only ones that have accounts on these sites. Many libraries have utilized the benefits of these sites and have created accounts.

Although having an account on these sites is beneficial, the account will not benefit the library unless the staff puts time into developing the account. Posting updates regarding events occurring in the library is only one aspect in developing the account. Promotion of the library is probably the best way to use the services of the sites. A great example of a good promotion is found on Brigham Young University Harold B Lee Library’s YouTube account. One clip the Lee Library produced that was very popular is shown below.



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*Video URL

Databases

Library databases are a great tool for any type of library. Library databases are usually online and are essentially an index to published information. Most of the databases provide the user with access to the full text of a published piece of information. These databases are beneficial to libraries because it can allow the user of the library to gain access to important information without having to store that information inside the library.



There are many options to choose from in regards to library databases. Some databases are more geared towards reference information while others are geared towards journal articles. Popular databases and database companies include WorldCat, JSTOR, Web of Science, LexisNexis, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest.

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Library Programs

Library programs are an essential aspect to bringing people into the library. These programs usually revolve around the physical collection of the library or an activity held within the library. However, these programs should not be the only programs offered in a library. Classes teaching computer literacy should be a staple of the programs found in any library.

Computer classes should incorporate a variety of different programs. One of the classes that should be taught is basic computer skills that include information on the Internet, Internet searching, and Email. Another class that should be taught is a word processing program such as Microsoft Word or Corel WordPerfect. A basic class on a spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel would also be beneficial.

Technology in School Libraries

The youth of today have more access to and knowledge of technology than early generations. Reasons for this enhanced knowledge is due to more technology being available today compared to the past. Due to youth’s knowledge of technology, it is important for sources of technology to be available in school library media centers.

School library media centers are usually the first substantial library experience a student receives. In order for this library experience to be a positive one, the school library needs to be able to provide the student with the required information and formats. Different technological sources available to school library media centers are ebooks, audiobooks, and online databases. A good resource for school libraries is world book. World book allows students to gain access to encyclopedias, reference articles, and audio visual materials. To learn more about world book and the services offered visit their site.

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Ebooks

The increase in the amount of materials being digitized and new technology has led to the popularity of electronic books, or ebooks. Ebooks are a great new source for libraries and for people who love to read. Devices that allow users to read ebooks, such as the Kindle or the Nook, allow the user to transport a number of books around easily and read those books at their convenience.

Libraries and publishers have started to make more books available electronically. An example of this availability is the recent releasing of the popular Harry Potter series in ebook format. Libraries can gain access to many of these electronic sources through systems like OverDrive. According to the OverDrive site, the system gives access to more than 650,000 digital resources from many different publishers.

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User Friendly Technology

Technology developments have allowed libraries to offer more user friendly services. Some user friendly services have already been implemented in libraries but even more services are being developed. One example of user friendly technology that has been implemented in libraries is the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). Instead of the card catalogs of the past, online cataloging systems have allowed users to search for materials by keyword. The ability to search with keywords can decrease the time it takes to find materials on a given subject.

A new technology that is becoming popular among libraries is the access to library materials on a mobile phone. Library users with smart phones or other devices can use internet connection or applications to gain access to mobile library sites. These libraries on the go sites can help people gain access to the services of the library any time anywhere. Thus, the influence of the library is not contained in the library building or on computers.



*Photo courtesy of Nelson Public Libraries.

Library Web Sites

A library’s Web site is a crucial aspect in determining the potential use of the library services. In today’s technological society, the library Web site is usually the first place a potential patron will visit. This makes the site important because it can give the potential user a first impression of the library and what services are offered.



Well-crafted library Web sites can help libraries impress potential users. Many factors exist that can make a site well-crafted. Two of the greatest factors of the site should be the appearance and usability of the site. If the site does not have a good appearance or is not easy to use, then people are not going to want to use the site. Some of the features of the site should include access to the online catalog, information regarding programs offered, and information for children and teen services. An example of a good library site is the Provo City Library.

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