Social Media can help Libraries

Social Media is a great tool. Not only is it fun and a good communication venue for people socially, it can be helpful to buisnesses and academic institutions, including libraries. Buisnesses have all jumped on the bandwagon to get on "Twitter" and "Facebook" to grow their revenues and get free or low-priced advertising. An example of this is found in the buisness Jazzercise. I am a certified Jazzercise instructor. I was amazed at the way they used "Twitter" as free advertising and to build excitment for a new location. When the location finally opened it had huge and immediate success, due in part to the use of social media. I believe a library can use social media the same way. A library should be using "Twitter " or "Facebook" to build excitement and build a following for the library. It is free or low-priced advertising for the library. It does require some time output, but the cost is low. Social media could help build a relationship between the patron and the library, especially with the younger generation of upcoming technology users.
Another way a library can benefit from social media is the use of Youtube. Youtube is a great resource for tutorials and "how to" videos. When library patrons can watch short videos on how to search the card catalog or use resources online, it will be more effective for Librarians. With the reduction in funds to all libraries, library staff must look for ways to make the most of their time. Having patrons have online directions will free up much need time for Libraians to do other duties required. Overall, social media is a benefit to libraries, when used the correct way.