Web2.0 > Case Studies

Broxburn Library

Broxburn Library currently has a Bebo page for teens and also a Facebook page for all ages. Other libraries in West Lothian use Bebo, Facebook and Twitter.

Background

After deciding to set up a teen reading group, it was thought a social networking site would work well to compliment it. This page is used to report on meetings, communicate with teens, and to advertise events and web sites of interest.

Due to the success of the Bebo page, library staff thought it would be good to have a web presence accessible to all ages. As Facebook is now the most popular social networking site a page was set up to promote new books, top 20 titles and events in the library. The page has a growing following, and users have complimented the page (especially the top 20 titles).

Benefits for users

Bebo has been a great tool for using with teenagers, as it is something they are familiar and therefore comfortable with. It allows staff members to keep up an informal relationship with teen users outside of the library walls. Writing a blog on the site as a record of the meetings creates something teens can say they are a part of, giving them confidence and motivation (one teen has now set up her own bebo page for manga fans).

Facebook also allows us to communicate with users outside of the library, and many enjoy being updated with what’s on and new books right from their own computer. It gives the library an informal web presence, which users feel more comfortable interacting with and providing feedback.

Benefits for staff

As both sites are relatively easy to use, they give confidence to staff in using technology. Staff also feel they are contributing to trying to reach new audiences, and feel more familiar with new stock as they update the pages.

Challenges

It is important to choose the right tool for the right audience – Bebo was popular with teens in our area, so that is why it was chosen. In another area it could be Myspace, Facebook or any other social networking site. Before setting up a site, ask library users what they would like or what they already use.

Pages need to be updated often to keep them fresh and relevant. By giving the page a clear focus staff feel more comfortable with updating the pages as required.

Although we have never encountered any problems, it is important to be vigilant in monitoring what users contribute to pages, and ensure any abusive or offensive comments are removed immediately.

Future Plans

There are no definitive plans for the future use of Web2.0 in West Lothian, however all libraries are encouraged to develop the use of these sites. Individual libraries will keep up to date with developments and the changing needs of current and prospective library users.

Tips and guidance

Try to keep pages light and friendly, and don’t be afraid to input a little personality or humour. Try to judge your audience and develop pages along with their development as readers and library users. Listen to your audience! If they like something, keep it. If they don’t, scrap it – Web2.0 tools are so adaptable that you can really shape them to suit your and your users needs.

Most importantly, have fun! If you enjoy it, this will come through on the page and hopefully means users will enjoy it too.