Social networking sites are as popular as i-Phones and the Kardashians, so why not use this to a library's advantage? By creating a ning, or a social networking site that links people through their interests, hobbies, or passions, librarians can link their patrons as well as their communities. Users can add value to the ning by adding book reviews, trailers, podcasts, and links to great articles that they find. This means that nings do not have to be designated as "for school patrons only", unless, of course that is what one wants. Rather I see the ning as a place where librarians can gather and add valuable information. Everyone who loves books in the community can join the ning - teachers, parents, students, etc.
One drawback I foresee is moderation of the users. If we have learned anything from Facebook and MySpace, the social networking sites can be places full of inappropriate comments and cyber-bullying. One must stay on their toes in order to use this technology. But if you can stay on your toes, you can keep the ning a place of healthy discussion and exchanging of ideas!
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