In class on Sunday, we were discussing what we liked about different library Web sites to pave the way for my students designing their own small library-related Web site. We happened upon Oak Park Public Library’s Teen Page, which featured “Battle of the Bands.” It was nice synchronicity because I had just shown them slides of “Rock the Shelves” at flickr. ( I love turning the students on to flickr and we’ll do more at our next weekend.)
Oak Park shares photos on their own page while “Rock the Shelves” was thrown into the great pool. I think both are viable, and should we go even farther? How effective would it be to put links to galleries like this on local teen spaces? Or what if OPPL had a teen blog to share the photos and get comments back from those that participated as well as teens that might not have been there.
What’s the best way to be found? The best way to share?
Here are some off the cuff tips for sharing images like this to promote the library, its services and its presence:
Use flickr for sure and Tag Tag Tag!
Explore the spaces folks are using. Some librarians are investigating myspace. Others are calling for the creation of teen-friendly, safe spaces in library space.
Look for the spots teens (or any of your users) are gathering online and see if you can establish a presence, share images or links.
Post pictures such as this in the library as well. Let your traffic see the cool stuff you are doing. Make teens feel welcome. (OMG, you say, what if they are loud or come on skateboards?? Puhlease!)
What else? What’s worked for you, dear readers?