Technology Sandbox

When I started to explore how libraries use Twitter, I had no idea how valuable it could be for libraries. My - admittedly limited - experience with Twitter was celebrity accounts and following tags for the events in Ferguson. I discovered that libraries can utilize Twitter to connect with patrons in various ways and advertise their services to the public. People might not even know that the library exists, but finding a Twitter account could clue them in to the resources available to them. Libraries can tweet about upcoming programs, elections, and general tips relating to information. They can also connect with other libraries to see what they offer their patrons, and share ideas with each other.

Another website I think libraries can utilize is Tumblr. Like Twitter, libraries can repost (reblog) posts from other blogs, including those of other libraries and those of general interest to their community. I think libraries be really creative with their content on Tumblr since they can reblog longer posts. It seems like they would have more freedom, and I have seen libraries reblog posts about authors, diversity in books, and other topics that go beyond their specific library. 

The targeted audience determines the best social media outlet to use. Libraries have to tailor their outreach to their community, and provide relevant content for their patrons.