Check out the February 15th Library Journal. There are two articles of interest; Take the RA Talk Online, discusses ways to offer reader's advisory virtually; and Pushing Circ with E-Service, describes ways to use blogging or other virtual environments to promote physical library services.
One library mentioned in the first article is the Williamsburg Regional Library. They offer an online form where patrons list extensive reading likes and dislikes, then a librarian compiles a comprehensive reading guide tailored to their needs. This could be an interesting, though time consuming, option for us.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Why blog for Teens?
Melissa did such a great job with the sample teen blogs, that much of what I have to say seems redundant! I’ve written out a sample mission and why blog statement, along with some potential ideas. You’ll notice that most of my ideas are already represented on Melissa’s blog, so look there for a visualization of what they could look like.
TeenZone Blogging Mission Statement:
The TeenZone Staff recognize that outreach via the Internet is an important component in Teen Services today. The TZ Blogs are designed to connect with teens interested in our programs and services as well as allow our teen patrons to interact with staff in an environment with which they are comfortable. It is the mission of the TeenZone bloggers to keep the blog up to date, informative and focused, as well as to maintain a comfortable environment for all users, including monitoring posts, removing offensive language and responding to all questions or concerns in a timely fashion.
For reaching a teen audience the better question is why not? The virtual world is just another way that we can connect with our patrons. The TZ Blog could be used to promote materials, advertise programs or connect patrons around similar interests. By reaching out to this online community we will certainly be doing no harm, and will most likely bring a new audience into the library.
Possible TeenZone blog topics
New Books- updated once a month, this would be a listing of new arrivals of note. We could draw from all areas of the collection and offer a link to the catalog where teens could place a hold, or request the item.
Staff Picks- Updated once a month, this would be a listing of each of our staff picks along with our reviews.
Programs- Updated once every two months (as e-vanced is updated) or when needed to make changes.
Book Discussions- This would be periodical, likely when popular books (like the upcoming Breaking Dawn) are released.
Volunteer Opportunities- Updated as needed, but would focus on TAB and other projects we have. Could offer a link to the Volunteer or TAB applications.
Make N Takes- We offer these regularly in the library. We could post the directions and materials list for those who do not have a chance to get one of the premade kits.
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