Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Thing 21

I found this section of the Webjunction article to be so helpful, I am going to paste it into my blog for everyone to read. During these Web 2.0, I have gotten some good ideas, but this was the most strait forward article I have read yet.

The next step in building an interactive library — the most difficult and frustrating part of the project for us —involves convincing a few key people in the organization to consider integrating social networking into existing library activities. This means adding endorsement and coordination to the social web work we've already set in motion.
Let's say, for instance, the library hosts an author visit. We already have a book blog, so we can review the author's latest book. We have podcasting abilities, so perhaps we can arrange a short telephone interview in advance. The same publicity that advertises the program can now mention the review and the podcast. That magnifies the vitality of the library: not only have we arranged for the author to visit, but we’re showcasing his work, linking to the catalog, and providing avenues for his readers to talk back, share their thoughts, and get excited about the upcoming program. The event host should mention the blog and podcast and announce that photographs from the evening will be available on the library's Flickr page. Patrons visiting those photos later in the week might leave their thoughts, discover pictures from other library programs, and partner with the site or subscribe to the blog so they don't miss the next event. Coordination helps every social web tool reinforce what we already do, and the tools themselves add an online interactive dynamic we've never had before.
Once patrons know we're sharing these tools and welcoming their participation, a host of additional opportunities will open up. Fun community events might spring from a social site geared toward seniors; an online teen photo project could ignite untapped creativity; monthly book clubs could add discussion opportunities between meetings; the library can spotlight its special collections or services; and social web workshops for the public could enrich the community and foster still more interest in the library's networks.




View my page on 23 Things on a Stick

Webjunction, Gather and Ning were fun to use. I loved the Library of the Month article on the Webjunction page. What a change in their childrens services. Bravo!!!

I also took a look at the Crafter website. Very cool. My sister is a big craft person. I will send her to this site.

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