Your Library on Facebook: Reaching Out to Users Where They Are

Abstract

Over the last year, Ball State University Libraries made reinvigorating their Facebook page a priority, going from 150 fans in December of 2009 to over 1,500 fans by March of 2011. Learn ways to promote your Facebook page and make it more than just a virtual notice board for your libraries. Discussion will include ways to incorporate photos, videos, meaningful links and news announcements, and lively interaction with users. Potential pitfalls will also be discussed, as well as the logistics of maintaining and managing the account with multiple administrators, and how to craft a social media policy to allow library staff to fully engage with patrons using social media while protecting the library’s name and image.