Libraries Using Facebook Pages

In the age of digital tech Facebook may seem/feel outdated, but in reality the platform is still the best way for libraries to promote themselves.  Community outreach is the goal and posting on Facebook can help libraries and librarians achieve it.  

Browsing social media to see what public and school libraries around the country are doing on Facebook, I did not find anything that stood out as particularly innovative but that may simply be the nature of the platform.

Several Facebook pages had posts about upcoming community and library events; some school libraries posted notices about bringing in overdue books as well as early closing days.  Other libraries shared pictures of recent events, patrons and items created by patrons at their events.  They were entertaining and could encourage people to join in future events.

While there was little audience engagement in the form of few likes, it does not mean that the posts did not reach intended audiences.

Having a Facebook page is advantageous because the platform is easy to navigate for most people.  It also allows you to browse previous posts by simply scrolling down.  A person can read the majority of the post if it's not too long, without having to click on a link, and the accompanying picture is visible from the feed as well.

I would have to say that one major drawback to Facebook is that its does not appeal to most young people.  Instagram and Twitter are more widely used by younger patrons, and so the library is not getting as much exposure as it may want.

This is the Facebook Page I have created for my own library

https://www.facebook.com/La-Biblioteca-Library-126245314692761/