Library and Information Science Commons^™

Checking Out Facebook.Com: The Impact Of A Digital Trend On Academic Libraries, Laurie Charnigo Heathcock, Paula Barnett-Ellis

Research, Publications & Creative Work

While the burgeoning trend in online social networks has gained much attention from the media, few studies in library science have yet to address the topic in depth. This article reports on a survey of 126 academic librarians concerning their perspectives toward Facebook.com, an online network for students. Findings suggest that librarians are overwhelmingly aware of the ‘Facebook phenomenon.’ Those who are most enthusiastic about the potential of online social networking suggested ideas for using Facebook to promote library services and events. Few individuals reported problems or distractions as a result of patrons accessing Facebook in the library. When …