Social Networking for Libraries

With MySpace becoming a force in the general community enabling friends to stay connected and informed of each others interests and friends its not surprising Museums and Libraries are hoping to tap into this market. Online clients could interact directly with information specialist at libraries asking questions directly on the libraries myspace page. The library would be seen as responsive to the new ways in which people seek and share information. The library would be clearly identifiable as a brand logo could be created and used on all its links to up and coming exhibitions, podcasts, photoes and blogs. The library could also support a link to sites associated with libraries eg. imminent authors, literary prize winners, various prominent exhibitions and the work of library fellows. The library would need to invest time and money into making their myspace page an evolving experience. Information generated from what people click on could be used to improve marketing strategies and perhaps influence the nature of future exhibitions depending on the level of interest generated online.

2.0 online applications

I can see how some of the applications could be useful in the work place. Sharing documents through Google Docs would certainly circumvent the need to open large email attachments. Collaboration on team projects could be improved as more ideas may flow between team members. Perhaps it would also inspire a sense of inclusion in a project and openess. Someone coordinating a project, where they need input from a large number of people, could also benefit. Slideshare's whiteboard and ability to share powerpoint presentations could be used by those involved in educational projects such as developing presentations for library clients. I recently worked in a team where we met regularly to fine tune a powerpoint presentation and this tool could have been used in this situation. Online applications are useful tools as long as we don't overlook the human need for face to face consultation.