explanation for the use of social media.
Benefits of Social Media Implementation
Colleges and universities constantly face budget restraints, and libraries must
continually demonstrate their value. Again, social media as cost-effective outreach to student
populations proves compelling. As Santamaria and Petrik (2012) describe, social media provides
a “common language” from which librarians can work with students; we can even “…confront
gaps in their knowledge in a very low-stakes situation,” enabling us to meet patrons where they
are more effectively. Social media can also be incorporated into information literacy as a tool for
discussing Public Domain images, Creative Commons, copyright issues, and ethical research
(Dudenhoffer, 2012). Additionally, it assists visual learners, engages multiple cognitive learning
techniques, and distributes easily using course management software such as Blackboard.
Further, the use of LinkedIn, blogs or a carefully crafted Facebook profile can enhance
networking, job searches, and college applications. These social media tools have an impact on
students’ lives and higher education professionals.
Social media also connects professionals globally. News and data are disseminated as it
unfolds in a way that impacts vocations through shared posts, thus widening access to useful
information. Librarians can promote library services, events, new acquisitions, and collect
feedback. Teaching faculty and staff can connect with students using technology familiar to the
students, and librarians can reach wider audiences who might not use the library otherwise. In
addition to promoting the library to primary communities, social media allows engagement
across institutions. With far-reaching effects, libraries are showcased on an international scale.
More locally, it engages student workers and interns who assist librarians with emerging
technologies, keeping the social media presence fresh and relevant.