OERs as a Social Platform

Peretiako-Soto, Alexandria

Cohen, A., Reisman, S.l, & Sperling, B. B. (1 October 2015). Personal spaces 
in public repositories as a facilitator for open educational resource usage.  
International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 16(4), 
156-176.

Summary: 

OERs are offering many benefits to educators and students as they allow for free
access to many resources. Learning object repositories are a popular means of 
sharing OERs as well as storing them and accessing them. A study was done on 
OER user behaviors such as use, commenting, learning exercises used for, and 
content building materials. Both OER collections and users are growing over time 
showing that they are becoming increasingly important and popular. There are 6 
types of contributors to the OERs studied: teachers, librarians, admins, faculty, 
students, and other. Faculty members were markedly high in uploading content as 
well as submitting learning exercises. OER repositories show high rates of reuse 
of materials, with almost 30% of content being reused. The ability for personal 
expression among repository users would be beneficial. Many repositories require
member status to upload, edit, or comment on resources, but allow anyone to view 
them.

Evaluation:

This article was very interesting as it discussed not only the relevance and benefits 
of OERs, but also the social aspect of OERs. For instance, who is uploading content? 
Who is viewing it? Are people starting educational discussions amongst each other in 
the comments? Who is allowed to comment? As someone who is fairly new to the 
world of OERs, I was not aware that there were platforms used where content users 
and generators could interact with one another.

How to destroy special collections with social media in 3 easy steps: A guide for researchers and librarians.

Leslie Fox
INFO 266

Werner, S. (July 31, 2015). How to destroy special collections with social media in 3 easy steps: A guide for researchers and librarians. Wynken de Worde. Retrieved from: http://sarahwerner.net/blog/2015/07/how-to-destroy-special-collections-with-social-media/


In her blog, Wynken de Worde, Sarah Werner posts her notes, amazing slides, and audio form her talk given at Rare Book School. She argues that while many Special Collections libraries are reaching out to users with social media, there are many ways this can go wrong, frustrate users and send them away. She uses humor to give examples of how keeping images locked up tight, treating everything as a joke or pretty picture and by relying too heavily on analytics for engagement by users can send researchers away and undermine the purpose of special collections.

The author then points out ways that social media can be used without damaging your special collection or stifling research and perpetuating misunderstandings. Werner asserts that special collections can grow using social media if you digitize with open access licenses; teach your audience to think about the past rather than laughing at it, and choose your aims carefully. Don't confuse popularity with engagement.

This presentation uses humor to engage the reader, but it is the detail and professionalism in the images presented as examples that I took special note of. A helpful resource for any special collections library wanting to utilize social media.

Social Media - Uses for Libraries

Bonaventure-Larson, Nichole

Wetta, M. (2016). Instagram Now. School Library Journal, 62(2), 30-32.

Summary: This short article outlines how libraries can use the social media application Instagram for the promotion of their programs, inclusion of their teenage patrons in goings on at the library, and the significance of the image-based site over other resources like Twitter.

Evaluation: I though this is was a really interesting short piece. I think Wetta makes some pretty good points about the simplicity of including an Instagram account in your promotional planning. She also makes several good points about the inclusion of day to day library life - such as posting photos of new books as they come into the collection - and how these kinds of posts are on par with how teenagers and young adults are expressing themselves through the internet. We don't see, as often, the long stream of consciousness blogging from the days of MySpace and LiveJournal. Accessing patrons who are active on social media is simpler now than it has ever been.  All it takes is a photo, a quick caption, and the proper use of hashtags. I think it's a brilliant way to connect and I would definitely follow my library if it had an account on Instagram. What do you all think? Is it as worthwhile as it seems?

Reexamining the Documentation Strategy of Archival Acquisitions in a Web 2.0 Environment

Hamby, Megan

Thomas, L. M. (2012). The Embedded Curator: Reexamining the Documentation Strategy of Archival Acquisitions in a Web 2.0 Environment. RBM: A Journal of Rare Books, Manuscripts & Cultural Heritage, 13(1), 38-48.

This article introduces the term “embedded Curator” which is essentially someone who documents a specific community using a collection policy while also serving as a resource to that community. With the ever developing digital age we live in, the article discusses the need to find ways to archive digital material using collection development policies and the struggle with preserving digital records in time before they no longer become available. These curators can use a something called More Product Less Process (MLPL) which helps with community and donor relationships and the collection or they can speak directly to their donors early on before records are gifted to an institution. Thomas stresses the importance of sharing archival processes with donors and communities so that these communities might be better informed in how they can back up and preserve important files for archiving.

I found this article interesting because it focuses on how important it is to implement a solid collection development policy in order to archive important and relevant digital materials from various communities. According to Thomas, “well-designed collection development policies and deeds of gift can provide curators with tools and documentation to allow them to change their minds about the direction of the collection…should they need to do so” (p. 40). These embedded curators can also impact the collection and archival processes by speaking to the donors about the importance of maintaining their records for future archiving. This was interesting because often I hear of stories of archival records coming to repositories in boxes without any arrangement or order. By speaking directly to important donors whose records are anticipated being gifted, curators and archivists would be able to satisfy their collection policy much easier. 

Using Social Media for Promotion

Wilson, Shibrie

Dankowski, T. (2013, July 16). How Libraries are Using Social Media. Retrieved from http://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2013/07/16/how-libraries-are-using-social-media/

There are many different ways of interacting with users from library and one emerging outlet is Google Hangouts. Creating blogs in which patrons can post different subject areas and librarians are able to gain more knowledge about those they serve. Social media is in regards to cost and is not limited to a particular size library. A library in Fredericksburg, Virginia  created a parody video using famous disco song "I Will Survive" and to their surprise the video went viral. Some libraries have used social media in form for campaigning for funds and have been very successful when doing so. One community in particular is Charlotte Mecklenburg, NC in which community members came together and raised money and this was all thanks to social media outlets. Promoting awareness of libraries by using social media has deemed to be immensely successful for those who use this method. 

Opinion:  
To sum this article in one word, I must say it brilliant. Libraries are being proactive using social media in order to bring awareness to what is taking place. This also shows how communities truly appreciate libraries to go as far as raising money in order to keep libraries open. Promoting on social media with an intended goal is great to use. 

Is anyone paying attention to Library posting on Social Media?

 Wilson, Shibrie

Dowd, N. (2013, May 7). Social Media: Libraries Are Posting, but Is Anyone Listening? Retrieved from http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2013/05/marketing/social-media-libraries-are-posting-but-is-anyone-listening/

Considering amount of people using social media outlets such as Twitter and Facebook, certainly this can be an outlet for libraries to use as a platform for marketing. This is article noticed that this can be both yes and no. According to a recent survey by Library Journal's Survey "86 percent of libraries said they were using social media. The top two social media platforms used by libraries were Facebook (99 percent) and Twitter (56 percent)." Issue with using social media outlets is that some libraries do not have a strategic plan to implement goals. There must be a sense of direction when creating social media in order to connect patrons to utilize services provided. Allowing the social media site to be fun and interactive is another concept in which some libraries are struggling with. Just as Dowd stated in article that you want to be able to engage users and use visual techniques and also make it fun. Challenge people to like your post or follow you and it will increase over time the amount of individuals that are actually paying attention to the Library on social media.

Opinion:
Using social media can be great for some libraries and a fail for many. This article addresses different techniques in which I agree with as to why some libraries are unsuccessful with their social media accounts while others are prospering. Everything is about marketing and how you are engaging users, and keep it social and interactive. After all that is why it is social media and platform for interacting users and advertising. 

20 Great Ways Libraries Are Using Pinterest

Johnson, Stacey

 

Lofland, Lee (2013). 20 Great Ways Libraries Are Using Pinterest. Retrieved from

http://www.leelofland.com/wordpress/20-great-ways-libraries-are-using-pinterest/

•  A list of ways to use Pinterest (or maybe other social media) to connect with patrons.
• Although this may not be specifically collection development, letting patrons now about new or special items in the collection is very important too. The article had some great ideas about promoting a library through Pinterest, especially pinning book covers to highlight new books or perhaps holiday books? Also using pins to highlight a historical collection or other special collection, especially an ebook or database resource that may not be so visible to patrons. This would be a great way to highlight any items or parts of the library collection that patrons might not know about.

Why Social Media is A Fail For Some Libraries

Wilson, Shibrie

Malczweski, B. (2013, May 1). Why Social Media Isn’t Working For Your Library. Retrieved from http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2013/05/why-social-media-isnt-working-for-your-library/

Ben Malczweski provides a great description of social media, "social media is casual, spontaneous, and whimsical, the method behind the message is anything but." In order be successful with social media account there must be an organization set in place to oversee account and not just opening one and posting. There is a process and goal behind the world of social media and library utilization. Reason some libraries social media accounts are failing is driven by lack of commitment. Social Media accounts require one to faithfully update information and interact network, without such one will ultimately fail. A group of people managing and scheduling account all based on community. Malczweski also discusses creating a brand and vernacular when using social media. Social media is fun interactive and casual so using formal language will not appeal to all patrons. Failure is occurring because many libraries are opening and account without organization, and contributing old methods of marketing in which are not reasonable for social networks.

Opinion:
Out with the old, in with the new is my take on this article. Social Media accounts are easy to create but there is organization. You cannot open a Social Media account and fail to use it regularly that defeats purpose of creating account. Libraries have to be willing to create groups of people in which are responsible for these social media accounts. Being diligent and persistent are key factors to avoid failure with social media. 

How are Libraries engaging your readers with fun?

Wilson, Shibrie

Mackenzie, P. (2014, July 22). Libraries engage young readers with fun . Retrieved from http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/2014/07/18/libraries-find-creative-ways-engage-young-readers/12864743/

In central Jersey libraries are becoming more engaging and fun for young patrons. Creative programs are in implemented in an effort to encourage children and young adults to read when school is not in session. There are different programs offered to young patrons during summer months for example a Night Owl program, science workshops for students, bringing books to life, children being able to act out the stories. These are all wonderful programs and libraries in central Jersey have a tremendous success rate with such. "Super Summer Reader" is a book club for young readers and is membership only. To emphasize different books and share reviews using social media sites such as twitter. For this reading program readers of all ages are encourage to participate. This reading program encourages free reading opposed to choosing books readers.

Opinion:
I will definitely consider some of these programs when brainstorming ideas for patrons. It is important to use different outlets to engage readers aside from traditional library marketing. I like the concept that this cause patrons to become involved with their library experience in regards to acting out books, participating in hands on workshops, and making books come to life. 

Building Library Community Through Social Media

Zatko, Ruzena

Young, S. H., & Rossmann, D. (2015). Building library community through social media.

 

          Information Technology & Libraries, 34(1), 20-37 18p.

 

 

Summary:

 

          This article demonstrates how building a social media following and engagement with patrons is good for the library. Young and Rossman used Montana State University Library for this study to see the impact and benefit of a Twitter account for the library. For a library to have a social media presence, its able to reach a vast audience and build a community. Twitter keeps everyone in the loop and the patrons who are subscribed can be up to date with current happens at the library, surveys, book reviews, etc. The results concluded that the more the library posted, the more followers and interactions that were promoted. However, most of the engagement was kept on a local scale.

 

 

Evaluation:

 

          This article made some great points for a library to be trendy and create social media accounts for the library in order to reach even more people. Aside from businesses and other, libraries come in third with twitter activity followed by student accounts. Another observation from the article is the more tweets that were posted the more followers it generated. So keeping an active Twitter account it a vital component in order to gain a larger following.

          It would have been nice to see how Twitter is doing when compared to the other social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Another element that could be helpful is knowing the age demographics of the followers that they are generating. This in turn would allow them to know how to reach the demographics that are lower Twitter users. and this way create an approach for them for outreach and to keep them informed.

Using social networking to connect teens with young adult literature

Saeteurn, Chi.

Hilbun, J. (2011). Using social networking to connect teens with young adult literature. Public Libraries, 50(3), 42-49.

Summary: Hilbun writes about the different ways that youth services librarians can connect with teens through social media platforms. Hilbun begins by highlighting the importance of librarians in connecting teens to reading. While there is a misconception that teens no longer read, teens are reading but what they are reading has slightly changed. Teens continue to read traditionally, such as books and required reading for school, but they are also reading websites, text messages, blogs, Facebook, and other social media nowadays. Thus, youth services librarians can step up and incorporate Web 2.0 tools in order to reach teens in platforms that they popularly converge. One step would be making the library webpage more appealing and teen-friendly and other methods include incorporating blogs, contests for teens to make video book reviews and trailers, online book clubs, book-sharing sites such as Goodreads, Facebook/Myspace, Twitter and RSS, and Avatars and Second Life. It is important to attract teens through these various platforms as well as keep teens engaged by asking their input.

Evaluation: Hilbun continues the push to incorporate more Web 2.0 technologies, providing informative examples of free tools to use. The section on the library webpage as a way to attract teens offered examples and links to public libraries with great teen webpages in order to provide the reader with a visual understanding. The promotion of author blogs and book-sharing sites as a way for teens to connect to literature provides a refreshing look at what resources teens may find valuable. Librarians can use the free Web 2.0 technologies to their advantage by creating a space to not only connect teens to literature, but to also enable teens to take an active role. These tools are useful especially as a way to promote the available collections at the library and to also solicit feedback on what teens would like to see added to the collection.

I would personally like to see the teen webpage of my library system redone in order to attract more teens.

Towards Library 2.0: The Adoption of Web 2.0 Technologies in Public Libraries

Curtin, Shane.

Anttiroiko, A., & Savolainen, R. (2011). Towards Library 2.0: The Adoption of Web 2.0 Technologies in Public Libraries. Libri: International Journal of Libraries and Information Services, (61)2, 87-99. DOI: 10.1515/libr.2011.008

This article explores libraries' attempts to reinvent their services through the implementation of Web 2.0 tools such as RSS feeds, live chat, blogs, and book rating and user tagging systems. The article makes a distinction between social media and Web 2.0, claiming that the former is just a subset of the latter. To address the "terminological ambiguity" the authors divide Web 2.0 tools into categories including social networking, special interest networks, media communities and content based SNSs. blogs, short messaging/feeding, sharing news/opinions/views, reference works, and collective intelligence (with examples of sites of each type and their utilization in libraries).  The article also discusses the purpose and potential of the tools public libraries have adopted, the ensuing formation of the concept of "Library 2.0" and its role in bringing about social changes such as "Government 2.0". The authors found that public libraries use Web 2.0 tools for four main purposes: communication, content sharing, social networking, and crowdsourcing. In many libraries, the reference department offers instant messaging for patron questions. Other oft-used tools include blogs, Twitter, Facebook, user enabled tagging for library catalogs (taking advantage of the "wisdom of crowds") and collaborative tagging via programs like Delicious. Many librarians surveyed in the authors'  research complained that maintaining Web 2.0 services increases workload, but also that their patrons report greater ease of use and satisfaction with library services. The authors call on libraries to move from an "evolutionary to a revolutionary" and integrate Web 2.0 fully into their identities.

Evaluation:

This article raised interesting questions, but provided no answers. It was effectively and overview of the ways in which select American libraries used Web 2.0 tools. I suspect that in 2011, when it was published, it seemed more original. I was quite interested in the larger implications of social media in libraries, but the article spent little time on these. It did emphasize that the library can use it's position in the community to become a launchpad for Web 2.0 understanding, and thus aid in the empowerment of individuals who learn how to effectively use these tools. "Government 2.0" as mentioned in the article, is a concept I have been hearing a little about lately- a scenario in which people use Web 2.0 to become more active participants in their government. In the years since this article was written, Twitter has become the main vehicle for Government 2.0. Certainly libraries have a role in the Web 2.0 revolution (given our operational tenants of free expression and freedom of access), but I think Web 2.0 is something that is moving forward  independently of us. Our responsibility is merely to keep up with it, and make sure we provide our users with the kinds of tools to which they are accustomed.

Building Library Community Through Social Media

Rowland, Sarah

Young, S. s., & Rossmann, D. d. (2015). Building Library Community Through Social Media. Information Technology & Libraries, 34(1), 20-37.

Summary: This paper follows an academic libraries attempt at changing the way they handle Twitter by bringing a more “intentional, personality-rich, and interaction-driven approach to its social media activity” (p. 20). It gives a nice literature review talking about where libraries currently stand on social media and how the conversation so far has been pretty disjointed and not very useful. It also discusses how a majority of libraries use social media for marketing, announcements or promotional material instead of developing an online community. They evaluated Montana State University’s current Twitter activity to gauge user type, action-object mapping and interaction of the followers of the libraries account. They determined by changing the type of tweets they increased the number of students who follow the libraries Twitter account went from 6% to 28%. This was just from Phase 1 to Phase 2. Over the course of one year by using more personality-rich two way interacting their community of students grew by 366 percent and their interaction grew by 275 percent. From this research it was concluded that, “Our research demonstrates the value of social media as a community-building tool, and our model can guide social media in libraries toward this purpose” (p. 32).

Evaluation: This was an excellent study and article that was done. If you are interested in how to increase student usage of social media for your libraries account I think this article gives a great overview. It really showed that moving away from the one way communication that most libraries use social media for that one could build an online library community that students will use.