SOCIAL NETWORKING

Impressions and Experiences with Social Networking:
I was impressed with the Library links. The Libraries that were chosen
as good examples of those who have utilized social networking in their
websites. The sites are very appealing, user friendly, and offer the tech savvy lots of opportunities. These sites would also meet the expectations
of the typical Library user who is under the age of 30.
I would like to see my institution have a page on Facebook or MySpace.
However, this probably would be difficult to do because as soon as I tried
to get on to these two websites a popup message came up saying that this
would be reported to Administration—i.e., Facebook and MySpace are
banned and blocked at South Bend Medical Foundation. I would say that
dealing with the IT department here is a challenge and don’t think they
would change their policy anytime soon.
SBMF Administration would also be very focused on the privacy concerns for individuals and would not want to get involved in the legal questions that
could arise from the usage of Facebook and MySpace.
As for personally using Facebook and MySpace-- I don’t think that privacy
concerns are a problem unless you are dealing with individuals under the age of 18. As in most cases, proceed with caution, would be my advice.
Social networking for MLA members to connect could be a nice advantage to using the social networking tools. This could be helpful after attending
May 2008 MLA in Chicago and wanting to further communicate with a member that you have met there. Also, I think you make yourself look more professional if you try to increase your visibility through social networking tools.
I will definitely be spending more time on utilizing the social networking tools highlighted in this class—this definitely could be helpful in exploring more career opportunities!