Social Networking

The idea from "Spotted an article" about members supporting each other gained my interest. There are so many questions that can be answered by another library member; just listen in to the conversations whilst people line up at the information desk. I have often had to thank one member for helping another, and me.

Being involved with Reader's Advisory work, I can see that discussion between members of recommending what to read next could be invaluable; and probably give the library ideas on what they have missed buying.

This then could lead onto a marketing opportunity of letting our members and anyone else who joined how interested we are in their suggestions and how quick we are to implement them.

It would be interesting to see how many people would join in. And this could lead to great opportunities for networking. That author who lives locally and would love to come and give a talk and naturally his friends, also authors, would like to give talks as well. Or maybe they would like to give a lecture on writing. Then there is also the poets groups, the writers groups, the artists groups etc. all wanting to participate with the library in some way.

As they say, just one ripple is all it takes ..........

Google Docs

I can see many uses for Google Docs, one being the ability to collaborate with other staff on a document, presentation etc. without the need to attach emails etc. At first I thought this is what we are using wikis for, but, of course, Wikis don't have all the Office capabilities of Google Docs. Also in some instances, just a couple of the group may be working on something, and it is too new to share with everyone.

The other purpose I am thinking of is training library members in the use of various library services. If a presentation has been given in the library put it on the web and then let others know about it.

And, of course, the person who can't attend the meeting, type the minutes straight in and they can receive them immediately.