The Social Library, Volume 39
In Volume 39 of our Social Library series, we're excited to showcase libraries who have done a wonderful job, especially with photos, engaging with their communities. From "Month of Thanks" to "Family Reads Week," these libraries are putting their patrons in the limelight. These simple yet impactful strategies could be employed by any library using social media to connect with their communities. We're pleased to be hearing from readers that they 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.
- The Sharon Forks Library, a branch of the Forsyth County Public Library in Georgia, hosted the second annual Diwali Celebration on November 4. Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn in the northern hemisphere. The library partnered with local organizations to bring traditional dance, music, singing, food and crafts.
- We wanted to share a wonderful social media approach used by the Fullerton Public Library in California. They posted a link to a wonderful TEDx video about penmanship and a simple message inviting patrons to explore the video, along with the call number for calligraphy books. "A very interesting look at an increasingly rare artform. (It's 745.61 if you're interested in calligraphy....)." What a simple, yet effective way to connect patrons to interests.
- Franklin Park Public Library District in Illinois is sharing a photo each day as part of their Month of Thanks series. "Each day on Facebook, we will feature a new patron, staff, or community member and their message of thanks. You can participate, too! Just stop by the Info Desk or Kids Crossing Desk and write down what you’re thankful for on a leaf." Photos will be displayed on Facebook, and the leaves will fill up a tree in the library.
Take a moment to browse the participants so far. One of our favorites is Bella, who's thankful that her mom has a good job.
- Orange County Library System (FL) shared this wonderful photo at right, from the Orlando Public Library, where 49 people representing 25 countries had just become U.S. citizens. One commenter shared, "As a librarian I would consider it a privilege to host a moment like this at my library."
- Meridian Library District in Idaho shared photos from their "My Family Reads" Photo Contest, part of their Family Read Week. Patrons were invited to take a family photo at the "photo booth" in the Cherry Lane library lobby with either a personal device or one borrowed from the library, and photos could be submitted to enter the contest and win a prize.
Thanks to all of this week's featured libraries for such outstanding service to your communities!