The document discusses the integration of Facebook initiatives in libraries, focusing on understanding student needs and behaviors. It explores how technology, specifically Facebook, influences students' study habits and their comfort level with librarian interactions on the platform. The findings and recommendations emphasize the importance of recognizing student perceptions and real-world interactions when developing a virtual library presence.

1. Beyond the Buzz: Planning Library Facebook Initiatives Grounded in User Needs David Bietila Elizabeth Edwards The George Washington University

2. Facebook What is it? Who uses it?

3. Facebook & Libraries Growing library interest in Facebook Friending students Announcing events through Facebook messages Publicizing new resources

4. Our Library & Facebook

5. Our University

6. Our Library

7. Creating this Study

8. Research Questions What role does technology play in our students' study habits? What role does Facebook play in the lives of GW students? How can the library use Facebook to connect with GW students?

9. Methodology Ethnographic approach Three phases: Review of profiles and observation of student activity on Facebook Survey of GW students Semi-structured interviews with Facebook users

10. Interview Questions How does Facebook as a recreational practice impact your study habits and academic life? How would you feel if a librarian “friended” you? Under what circumstances would you feel comfortable “friending” a librarian or accepting a librarian’s friend request? What sort of information would you expect/want to find on a librarian’s profile page?

11. Findings

12. Findings: Why do students use Facebook?

13. Findings: Students use Facebook to…

14. Findings: Use and Affects How frequently do students use Facebook for academic purposes? How do they feel Facebook use affects their academic performance?

15. Findings: Perceptions of Staff How do you feel about university staff having Facebook profiles? I don’t know I’m uncomfortable with it I’m comfortable with it I like it

16. Findings: Getting Help

17. Recommendations

18. Recommendations When developing a virtual presence, consider students’ actual perceptions of the library.

19. Recommendations Also consider how students view and interact with librarians in the real world.

20. Recommendations Provide resources, but don’t be surprised if students don’t use them.

21. Recommendations Recognize that Facebook may play a role in librarians’ lives too.

22. Thank you! David Bietila [email_address] Elizabeth Edwards [email_address]