Things that are free are hard to find these days due to the tough economy. Public libraries give the population free access to knowledge, the most valuable asset a person can have. This is done at a cost, since funding for these institutions is extremely limited. Many also find it difficult to take advantage of this opportunity due to lack of knowledge about the resources offered or inability to commute to their nearest location.
Social media is able to help, especially when it comes to the chain of libraries home to the Kansas City Metro area – Mid-Continent Public Libraries. They use the largest social media outlet – Facebook – to their advantage, advertising events and resources many people may be unaware.
Each library has its own branch and some branches maintain a Facebook page. This is done with the outside dedication of library employees in order to spread the wealth of knowledge. These pages advertise events, such as the 6-in-12 Challenge where adults are encouraged to read six books in a year to win an eReader.
The Facebook pages also advertise special branch events, such as the popular Storytime where children and their parents can go up to the library for music, storytelling, and arts and crafts. The libraries also advertise free events located in the city of their branch.
Use of social media acts as a gateway for Mid-Continent Public Library. People are able to learn about what the library has to offer and are directed to further web resources, such as the well-organized and information-filled homepage to library chain. Social media is a tool used to boost interest in the library system, encouraging more visitors. In the long run, this will allow more funds for library resources, giving free knowledge to all.
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