Evaluation of Social Software Tools

Evaluation of Social Software Tools: 

Social software tools do indeed have a place in library services. The existence of this course alone is evidence that social software is very useful to libraries, librarians, and their patrons. The most appealing aspect of social software tools are that they are free to use. There is of course the ‘cost' of time, such as having a librarian or multiple librarians trained on how to properly use social software tools, but I believe that this cost will not be outweighed by the benefits of social software tools. Also keep in mind that many services today follow a ‘self-service' model, so the majority of people should not have a problem adapting to these very user-friendly social software tools. Most importantly, I believe that social software tools have a place in libraries because libraries are traditionally ‘information providers,' and Web 2.0 is simply the next step in the evolution of technology and communications, so libraries should jump on board.

The tools that could be easily implemented and would have the greatest impact depend on the library dynamic itself. If communicating over time and distances is an obstacle, then libraries should implement a wiki into their library setting. If research is the primary duty of the library, then RSS fees would be an efficient option to stay up-to-date with current affairs. If a library is trying to reach out to a new generation of potential library users that are online, then setting up a Facebook account, holding online gaming nights at the library, providing instructional videos through media sharing, and participating in virtual worlds would be a great way to advertise the library's image to the public. Overall, the choice of social software tool depends on the library structure, but all the tools we have learned about throughout this course would be beneficial in a certain type of setting.

I don't necessarily think that certain social software tools have more potential then others, because (as stated above) the choice of tool really depends on the library's structure. I do, however, like the more complex tools better, because I believe they can do a wider variety of things. As an example, I like the idea of libraries setting up Facebook account and using other online social networking tools, or even using Wikis, to communicate to their community. Within these tools, you can include other elements of social software, such as media sharing by implementing a YouTube feed, links to RSS feeds, links to instant messaging chats ("Ask a Librarian"), and so many more. To reiterate, I don't believe that some social software tools have more potential then others because of the differences in library needs, but the more complex tools can do more, thus they have a larger potential to reach a wider variety of people.

Thanks for a great semester everyone!!