School Libraries on Facebook

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Many school libraries have taken to catering to digital natives, individuals who were born into the technological age.  One of these avenues is Facebook. Facebook is the ultimate bridge between digital natives and digital immigrants, those who had to learn to live and maneuver technology.  This is something any librarian should take to, as it is part of offering and promoting the library's services to any and all potential patrons. What's particular about Facebook is that librarians can post a variety of things.  From announcements, important nuggets of information, to funny memes about the library dynamic, these methods to reach out to the students and community can't be overlooked.  This technology can be used to advocate the role of the library in learning.
Unfortunately, most school library pages host posts for the public, but there is little to no proof of actual interaction.  Some posts have comments, but most do not.  How can this be prevented? How can online interaction be promoted? This leads to a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of such a medium.  Should incentives be created to promote the Facebook page? These questions would need to be addressed in order to secure an avid base of patrons.  However, because technology has become the drive-thru for mental tidbits, perhaps it's best to post what the library is up to.  Perhaps informing the community about the library's services will suffice in most occasions. One can harbor the approach of quality versus quantity. In any case, creating a Facebook page must be done with advantages and disadvantages in mind.
Regardless of these facts, the information is out there. The more it's aesthetically presented, the more "circulation" it will have.   Needless to say, the library Facebook page will only help to accrue exposure and cultivate merit among students and the community.


 Mission, Texas. Mission High School Library


 Houston, Texas. Houston Middle School Library

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