The Social Library, Volume 41
In this week's edition of our Social Library series we're honoring the great work of Wikipedians, sharing some great examples of libraries using Facebook to engage and share knowledge with patrons, and noting how one library is supporting those in the community who are grieving the loss of a loved one. In a multitude of ways, libraries are finding ways to connect with, support, and inform their communities. We're glad to hear that you continue to enjoy our weekly highlights of the great work happening in libraries. If you'd like to see your library featured in the Social Library series, please let us know via [email protected], or find us on Facebook.
- Representatives from the Wikipedia community were presented with the prestigious Erasmus Prize by Dutch royalty in Amsterdam this past week. This wonderful video was shared to introduce Wikipedia for the award: "a shared project that involves tens of thousands of volunteers around the world who help shape this initiative...By distributing knowledge to places where it was previously unavailable, Wikipedia also plays an important role in countries where neutrality and open information are not taken for granted." Congratulations especially to the many Wikipedian librarians out there!
- Madison County Public Libraries in Marshall, North Carolina announced Reaching Out, a monthly bereavement group held on the first Tuesday of each month. "This group is for anyone who is grieving the loss of a family member or friend. "Even at the best of times, the holidays are stressful -- but when there's an additional emotional burden, they're especially difficult," says Paula K. Rauch, MD, director of the Parenting at a Challenging Time program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Bereavement groups allow those who have lost a loved one to share their struggles with others who have experienced a similar loss. Groups offer an emotional connection when you feel isolated, providing and sharing information on how to cope during the first year or two after a loved one's death. The groups are drop-in, free, and confidential."
- The Porterville Library in California hosted the once-a-year International Games Day, an event for all ages and skill levels. Every genre of game was represented, from collectible card games to video games, and from puzzle games to classic board games. A raffle and refreshments were provided all day long. Plan for your own library's event next year at International Games Day @ your Library.
- Cuyahoga County Public Library got our vote for best Thanksgiving engagement question: "If you could have three or four of your favorite literary characters over for Thanksgiving dinner, who would you invite?" A simple question can provide a fun and meaningful way for you to engage with your local community members on Facebook.
- And we liked the simple yet informative way in which the Kansas City Public Library is sharing "on this date" information on Facebook. On his birthday, the library shared an article about local composer, Virgil Thomson. They link to the library's blog showcasing This Week in Kansas City History, but any library could use Wikipedia's "on this day" (today or tomorrow) resources to share interesting historical dates and figures on their Facebook page.
Thanks to all of this week's featured libraries for such outstanding service to your communities!