Book 46: Doing Social Media So it Matters

Doing Social Media So It Matters: A Librarian's Guide (Ala Editions-Speical Reports)TITLE: Doing Social Media So It Matters: A Librarian's Guide
AUTHOR: Laura Solomon
STARTED: December 20, 2010
FINISHED: December 22, 2010
PAGES: 80
GENRE: Library Science

FIRST SENTENCE: On June 19, 2009, at approximately 4:00pm, the world changed for public libraries in Ohio.

SUMMARY: [From Amazon.com] Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn: it s difficult enough to keep abreast of social media Web sites, let alone understand how they fit into today s library. This practical resource brings together current information on the topic in a concise format that s easy to digest. Laura Solomon is a librarian with more than a decade of experience in Web development, design, and technology, and her timely guide:
  • Provides context on the social media phenomenon
  • Offers practical advice on how libraries can choose, use, and monitor these tools effectively
  • Identifies additional resources and best practices
Solomon has written a unique, to-the-point guidebook for those ready to jump into the deep end of the pool and commence or improve their library s tweeting, posting, and friending.

THOUGHTS: This is a short book, but it is mighty. I started reading this during my commute, and finished it during the first leg of my train trip home. Now I really really really really want to draft a project proposal to do more social media for my library.

If you are a librarian (or library) who is new to the social media game, this book is the most valuable item you can read. Solomon covers how to start (and possibly end) your presence in social media from every possible angle. The good, the bad, and the ugly are all contained in this slim volume. Solomon even thinks to cover such things as how to win over colleagues, social capital, and return on investment.

The book is laid out in a few simple chapters to help guide n00bs through social media. She includes examples of how to do things right and shows you when things have gone wrong. In addition, there are several charts and graphs that break down the content into quick recaps which serve as helpful reminders to those going back to the book.

Beware, Solomon may cause you to become hyper at the prospect of a library Twitter account.

RATING: 8/10 [Terrific]

Comments

Lebachai said…
Thanks for such a great review! It's also the very first (at least that I'm aware of). I'm glad you find the book useful--that's what I was aiming for. There will be an expanded edition (published under a different title, also via ALA), coming out in late 2011. I'd be honored if you copied your review to the book's listing on Amazon--there aren't any there yet ;) Thanks again!--Laura Solomon
Meghan said…
You're welcome! I've posted the review on Amazon. Hopefully a bunch of other librarians will read the book.