Open AccessSocial media and academic libraries: Current trends and future challenges
Author(s) -
Collins Gary,
QuanHaase Anabel
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
proceedings of the american society for information science and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1550-8390
pISSN - 0044-7870
DOI - 10.1002/meet.14504901272
Subject(s) - social media , academic library , period (music) , public relations , political science , library science , sociology , world wide web , computer science , acoustics , physics
Academic libraries are increasingly using social media tools to promote services and highlight resources to patrons. This longitudinal study examines the social media adoption rates and practices in academic libraries in the province of Ontario over a fourteen month period beginning in April 2010. Findings indicate that while interest in social media technologies amongst librarians has plateaued, patrons of academic libraries are using these tools in increasing numbers. Outcomes suggest libraries should attempt in the future to create more original content in areas of patron interest as well as utilize their preferred platforms with greater regularity.