Social networking in academic libraries: the possibilities and the concerns
Abstract
Purpose
The goal of this paper is to examine the use of the major social networking tools in academic libraries in the USA. As college students are heavy users of social networking, such efforts provide academic libraries with outreach possibilities to students who do not use the physical library. The paper also seeks to examine the concerns about their use both from students and within the academic library.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper summarizes findings from articles published since 2006 found in the Library Literature and Information Full Text database. The first author also examined librarian blogs and library accounts in various social networking sites.
Findings
Social networking can be an effective method of student outreach in academic libraries if libraries take care to respect student privacy and to provide equal coverage for all subject areas.
Research limitations/implications
Most information about social networking is anecdotal with very little statistical analysis of its effectiveness. The popularity of the various social networking sites can change quickly.
Practical implications
Academic libraries should consider using social networking as an outreach effort but take care to avoid the potential negative consequences.
Originality/value
This paper provides a snapshot on the use of social networking in academic libraries through a thorough review of the available literature and an examination of the libraries' presence on the most popular social networking sites. It also provides help for academic libraries wishing to implement social networking.
Keywords
Citation
Dickson, A. and Holley, R.P. (2010), "Social networking in academic libraries: the possibilities and the concerns", New Library World, Vol. 111 No. 11/12, pp. 468-479. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801011094840
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited