This week I thoroughly enjoyed exploring several features of Facebook. I created an account, used the Friends menu to locate other librarians and wrote messages to them. Also I browsed more applications of Facebook such as Events and library catalogs such as UAB Catalog, PubMed and WorldCat. I added these applications to my Facebook profile.
Participants of the MLA Web 2.0 class also created an account in Linkedin, we joined Linkedin, set our preferences and used the Added Connections feature. Then we viewed examples of libraries that have MySpace sites.
My experience with a few of these social networking tools was enlightening and very positive. As I'm learning more about these tools, I'm discovering the versatility of applying these tools.
I can definitely see many of the benefits that MLA and other professional organizations can harness by utilizing social networking tools. For example MLA can post announcments and events; members can RSVP to events on Facebook and other members can view everyone else's response.
If someone needs reference assistance, in a few moments literature searches can be performed by using WorldCat, UAB Catalog, PubMed and other applications that may be added to one's Facebook profile.
Of course, there are some privacy issues when using social networking tools but I feel that the benefits of using these tools exceed the privacy concerns.
Bravo to all of our Web 2.0 instructors.
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