More Than MySpace: Teens, Librarians, and Social Networking

by Robyn M. Lupa

Overview

An accessible overview of dynamic ways that public libraries are using social networking to reach their teen patrons.

More Than MySpace: Teens, Librarians, and Social Networking offers librarians not fully familiar with the broad scope of web-based social networking a way into this thriving, rapidly evolving realm—and to the lives of the teenagers who so enthusiastically inhabit it.

In More Than MySpace, seven expert contributors examine the appeal of the social networking phenomena to youth, as well as its growing role in the classroom. The book then puts the spotlight on public libraries that have embraced social networking successfully, describing the approaches and methods that have helped them reach a wider teenage audience. The book concludes with an invitation for readers to continue their exploration of the topic further with a little networking of their own, collaborating with the author on a Wiki.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781591587606
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	08/25/2009
Series:	Libraries Unlimited Professional Guides for Young Adult Librarians Series
Pages:	126
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Robyn Lupa is the head of Children's Information Services at the Arvada Libary in Jefferson County, CO.

Table of Contents

Series Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Avatars, Friends, Apps, Oh My! A Background and Overview
Robyn M. Lupa
What Is Social Networking?
A Brief History of Social Networking
Today's Social Networking Environment
Politics and Activism
Professional Networking and Resources
Current Events
Recreational Interests and Consumerism
Socializing and Journaling
Surfing and Sharing
What Is Social Networking's Cultural Relevance?
How Is Social Networking Used by Teens?
How Does This Apply to Public Libraries?
What Is the Purpose of This Book?
Works Cited
1 Words from the Wired: A Teen Perspective
Dave Moyer
Works Cited
2 Friends, Fun, Fads—and Fear: Teens in the 21st Century
Erin Downey Howerton
The Social Web
Loss of Public Space
The Online Life
Schoolwork Goes Online
Digital Haves and Have-Nots
Online and Offline Effects
Online Spaces (Dangerous Places?)
Portraying Victimization
Behind the Numbers
Cyberbullying
Stranger Danger Goes Online
Advocating for Youth Using Social Networks
Developing Social Networking Services
Works Cited
3 Technology in the Classroom: An Educator's Perspective
Michelle Pearson
21st-Century Skills
Teacher and Librarian Connections
Works Cited
4 Practical Applications: Libraries Online
Jenna Obee
Social Networking Sites
The Big Players
Other Popular Social Networking Options
Social Bookmarking Managers
Library Web Pages
Works Cited
5 Convincing and Planning: Developing Your Library's Web 2.0 Presence
Kelly Czarnecki
Why Develop a Social Networking Program?
Convincing Others That It's a Good Idea
Questions to Ask Yourself
What to Consider
Preventing Abuse
Works Cited
6 Now Let's Use It: Creative Programming
Robyn M. Lupa
Blogs
Photos and Video
Podcasting
Virtual Reader's Advisory
Wikis
Works Cited
7 Homework Help Widgets: A School–Library Partnership
Andrew Wilson
8 Friending Your Colleagues: Being Professional with Web-Based Social Networking
Linda W. Braun
Understanding Youth Development
Teen Advocacy
Awareness of Teen Popular Culture
Project Management
Commitment to Professional Development
Don't Wait; Start Connection Now
Social Networking Resources for the Professional Teen Librarian
Social Networking Tools
Examples of Social Networking as a Professional Tool
Works Cited
9 A National View: Survey—and a Challenge
Robyn M. Lupa
Appendix: Top 20 Social Networking Sites
Dave Moyer
Glossary of Terms
Further Reading
Index
About the Editor and Contributors

Editorial Reviews

The topic is certainly timely, and the book's treatment gives librarians handy tools to start connecting with wired teens.” —Booklist

“For young adult librarians looking for new ways to reach out to their clientele, this title offers a multitude of ideas through networking sites.” —ARBAonline

“This practical yet fascinating professional reference answers the question, 'What is social networking?' This book is a must for those getting started with social networking applications. Highly recommended.” —Library Media Connection

“Colorado-based librarian Lupa provides background on social networking websites to introduce the nine contributions collected here on how libraries can employ those sites in work with teens. Chapters address the following topics: a teen perspective on social networking, online fads among teens, practical applications for libraries online, development of a social networking program for libraries, creative programming ideas, homework help widgets, professionalism within web-based networking endeavors, and teen advocacy. Case studies demonstrate successful use of the web in library outreach to teens.” —Reference & Research Book News

“A wide variety of ideas for programs and activities are shared that will entice teens to gather at the public library. Young adult librarians searching for ways to bring young people to the public library should consider purchasing this activity-filled title.” —Catholic Library World

From the Publisher