Ten Things a Blogging Librarian Must Do (an exercise in common sense)

Cite your sources. Link to them. It’s what this Web and blog thing is all about.

Post often but have something to say. I’d rather read one or two super good posts than multiple posts that someone puts up because they feel they have to. I’ve done that here. I used to post everyday, but now I focus on what’s really interesting me and what I can comment on.

However: make the commitment though to follow through. It pains me to see a new blog go up, get listed here and there and then never hear from it again. Blogging is an investment of time and energy, commit.

Post about what you’re passionate about and don’t be afraid to say what you think!

And share yourself. I love learning about folks and how they see the world. Their POV may help me understand or change mine. It also adds to the community that is the blogosphere and more so the Internet. We are people… be yourself!

Never miss an opportunity to show your administration how well an external library blog is working. Did you get a nice email from someone who found your blog helpful? Forward it to all involved. It’s feedback of the best kind.

If you are doing a personal blog, don’t do it on your library’s dime. Breaks? Lunch? Sure! In the speaking I’ve done about blogging I’ve had numerous library admin types ask what to do about a blogger on their staff. If it’s a library-related blog, discuss what you might do as part of professional development with your supervisor.

Blog unto others as you’d have them blog unto you. In other words, play nice. I don’t want to read flames. I do want to read a differing opinion from someone who thought out their points on whatever the topic of the day is.

Read other blogs for inspiration and AHHA moments. Chime in. CITE!

Learn all there is to know about your blog app and make use of its features. These are good skills to have.

Have FUN!

(well, that was 11! 🙂 )