LIBR 246-12: Web 2.0 and Social Networking Tools (Fall 2008)

Do you think libraries should be providing services in MySpace and/or Facebook? Why or why not?

Libraries should take advantage of online communities and existing technologies to help patrons find information.  These sites are amazing social sites that allow like minded people to chat, collaborate, and access information that they share interests.  I think some of the most powerful things a library can do on these sites are engage the user and provide audio and video resources.  Community can be built by a library presence by having weekly book talks and comments around hot books.  New books can be reviewed and people can get a sense of how material is just by reading posts and looking at people's links, blogs, and thoughts.  I feel strongly about meeting the library user where they are at, and today it is on the web at these site.