Pasadena High School Library's Facebook did not have many posts. I looked back at their posts as far as the summer months. The library announced over the summer that their first author visit had been scheduled for the upcoming school year. The librarians were also putting together a list of books and wanted input from the students, but no one commented on that post. What I liked the most about their summer posts was that they invited their students to the library in the summer to read and play games. At the beginning of the school year, the library posted that they had kindles for their students to check out and also announced that they could go get their student IDs there. Other of their posts include links to articles about why children should read, their upcoming author visit, and a book event at their high school. I chose to browse through this library's Facebook page because it was one that had most "likes". But I was surprised that their posts had no comments on them. I believe the only comment I saw was a "happy face". They do do a good job in letting their students know about what's happening at their library and school.
*Vilonia Middle School Library https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vilonia-Middle-School-Library/78374312486?ref=br_rs
I enjoyed browsing through Vilonia Middle School Library's Facebook page. I could see that this library uses their Facebook page effectively, having more than 600 likes. They have albums of pictures from their book fairs and literacy nights. They also announce various activities happening around the school, like a chili cook off and a Valentine's dance. Looking through this Facebook page gave me great ideas to share with my librarian. For example, during "Homecoming Spirit Week", the library would give out $5 Book Fair Bucks to the student who had the best outfit on a given day. They also have dance for students who meet their AR points goal. Some of the comments on this library's Facebook page are from parents thanking them for the activities and fun events they offer for their children. Two thumbs up to this middle school library who goes far and beyond for the success of their students.
*Cordova Elementary School Library https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cordova-Elementary-School-Library/168055128780?ref=br_rs
I liked how the librarian in Cordova Elementary School communicates with students and parents using a Facebook page. The librarian effectively communicates her objectives for the first weeks of library class. He/she explains to parents and students what the first few weeks of library class will look like and when they will be able to check out books. This Facebook page also has links to the school's calendar. The librarian announced when the book fair was going to take place and encouraged everyone to visit the book fair. School pictures and pictures with Santa days are also posted. I liked that the librarian answered questions that parents had left in the comments section, such as if there would be a picture make up day.
Advantages/Disadvantages of having a FB page for your library:
Advantages
- Can be used to reach out to patrons who use Facebook, mainly teens and young adults
- Worldwide Connectivity- Can connect with people and libraries from other cities, states or countries
- Information Sharing- Most social networking sites have an instant message feature, which can help librarians with real-time chat
- It can serve as free advertising for a fundraiser or event at your library
Disadvantages
- Social networking may not work for elderly patrons because many do not have a Facebook (many students' parents may not have a FB either)
- No face to face socialization
- Need to be vigilant about comments-cyber bullying between patrons
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